Effects of silvopastoral areas on dual-purpose cattle production at the semi-humid old agricultural frontier in Central Nicaragua

Abstract

Cattle production in humid lowland tropics has been criticised for its extensive management. Dual-purpose cattle production system has been preferred by small and medium sized farMON in such regions due to low capital and technical demands with low risk for farmers. In order to quantify the effects on production of silvopastoral areas in the dual-purpose cattle production system, relations between land use patterns and seasonal production and herd data were examined for 74 farMON in semi-humid regions of central Nicaragua. The study concluded that silvopastoral areas are largely utilized for cattle production with positive effects on milk production. Further studies are recommeded on stocking rates and change of sward composition, feasibility study on pasture improvement with use of fertilization and/or silvopastoral techniques, and availability and nutritional values of broadleaved plants in dry season.