Making maize appeal to cattle is in variety choice

摘要

Studies in France show that maize variety choice can have a big effect on cows' intake levels. Maize varieties differ markedly in their appeal to dairy cows and new work in France is unlocking the genetic pathway to boost intake by up to 3kg a day and so cut the cost of milk production. The feeding value of maize is not only based on its energy value, but its intake appeal, too. A high energy variety may fail to deliver the desired results if cow intake is lower than desired.