ANSC Feeds Practice Exam

What is the correct ranking of the following forage classifications from highest to lowest in terms of digestibility: 1. cool-season grasses 2. warm-season grasses 3. legumes?

1. 1, 2, 3

2. 2, 3, 1

3. 3, 1, 2

4. 1, 3, 2

The correct answer is: 3, 1, 2

In terms of digestibility, legumes rank the highest among the forage classifications. This is due to their higher protein content, greater digestible energy, and beneficial fiber composition, which makes them more palatable and digestible for livestock. Legumes, such as clover and alfalfa, provide essential nutrients that support animal growth and health effectively. Following legumes, cool-season grasses come next in terms of digestibility. These grasses, which grow well in cooler temperatures, offer a decent level of digestibility but generally contain less protein compared to legumes. They do, however, provide adequate forage for ruminants during certain seasons, contributing positively to their nutritional intake. Warm-season grasses rank the lowest in this classification. While they can still serve as a valuable source of forage, their overall digestibility tends to be lower than that of both legumes and cool-season grasses. This lower digestibility can result from their fibrous structure and increased lignin content, particularly as they mature. Thus, the correct ranking of the forages based on their digestibility is legumes first, followed by cool-season grasses, then warm-season grasses. This understanding is crucial for farmers and animal nutritionists when selecting appropriate forage for livestock to ensure optimal health and productivity.