Researchers develop studies to improve productivity and reduce methane emissions in livestock farming in MT

Researchers from the State University of Mato Grosso (Unemat), in partnership with the Federal University of São Carlos and the Center for Nuclear Energy in Agriculture at the University of São Paulo (CENA/USP), are conducting a project aimed at improving livestock productivity and optimize methane gas emissions in Mato Grosso. The study, entitled “New Diets for Cattle Based on Native Species in the Mato Grosso Amazon”, is financed by the State Government, through notice no. 010/2021 Research with a High Level of Technological Maturity (PANMT) of the Research Support Foundation of the State of Mato Grosso (Fapemat).

The project focuses on the use of native species, such as “Amarelinho” (Chloroleucon acacioides) and “Bordão de Velho” (Samanea tubulosa), in animal feed.

According to the project coordinator, Dr Alexandre de Azevedo Olival, in addition to the possible nutritional benefits, the correct management of these trees in pastures can improve animal welfare and have positive impacts on the soil and forage plants.

“It is an important step towards facing the challenges of livestock farming in Mato Grosso, where we can adopt more sustainable and efficient practices, using some native species in animal feed, with excellent results, thus strengthening the livestock sector in the state”, highlighted the researcher

Livestock plays an essential role in the economy of Mato Grosso, however, many pasture areas are degraded, which makes the pasture production system difficult and negatively impacts biodiversity. Given this scenario, interest in sustainable alternatives that can increase productivity with low environmental impact is growing.

The species “Bordão de Velho” (Samanea tubulosa), during the rainy season
Credits: Archive/Researcher

The project is conducted in three dimensions: evaluation of the annual production and characteristics of the fruits of the studied species, analysis of the composition of the fruits and in vitro fermentation processes, and evaluation of the performance and animal behavior of heifers fed with the fruits.

The results show that the use of “Amarelinho” and “Bordão de Velho” in the bovine diet not only reduces methane emissions, one of the main greenhouse gases associated with livestock farming, but also increases the weight gain of beef animals. , contributing to better production efficiency.

The “Amarelinho” species (Chloroleucon acacioides) in the dry season, when the fruits are harvested
Credits: Archive/Researcher

The research represents a significant advance for livestock farming in Mato Grosso, offering practical guidelines for the effective implementation of these species in animal feed. The researcher highlights the fundamental role of the partnership between academic institutions and the support of organizations such as the Ouro Verde Institute and COOPERGUARITA, a cooperative that brings together seed collectors and milk producers in eight municipalities in the north of Mato Grosso.