Adaptation of forage legume species and cultivars under grazing in two extensive livestock systems in Italy

Legume-based pastures can increase the forage feeding value, the self-provision of protein sources and the sustainability of grazing systems. This 4-year study provided further knowledge on adaptation of forage legume species and cultivars for pasture sowing in extensive livestock systems of inland Italian areas. Three cultivars of lucerne (Medicago sativa L.), two of birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.) and two of sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) were evaluated at Casina (northern Apennines) under cattle grazing and at Torricella Sicura (central Apennines) under sheep grazing in farms using rotational grazing with high stocking rates. Semi-erect lucerne and birdsfoot trefoil morphological types, presumably more grazing-tolerant, were compared with erect types. Species showed contrasting adaptive responses, with lucerne at Casina and birdsfoot trefoil at Torricella Sicura being highest ranking for overall dry-matter yield. Lucerne at the former location, and both lucerne and birdsfoot trefoil at the latter one showed the highest final ground cover. The kind of exploitation at Casina (mob-grazing) may have contributed to lower persistence of birdsfoot trefoil. Sainfoin mostly showed potential as a short-term grazing species. Performance of cultivars within species varied with location. Erect cultivars yielded and persisted as well as, or better than, semi-erect cultivars, possibly because of the adoption of rotational grazing and their Italian origin (implying possible better adaptation to local conditions). Erect cultivars of lucerne were specifically adapted to the geographical area in which they were selected. Specific adaptation and targeted intensity of grazing may be the main determinants in the choice of species and cultivars.