Forage growth analysis, forage digestion analysis and ruminant growth analysis as related using simple equations

The present study was conducted, using simple equations, to suggest relatio nships among forage growth analysis, forage digestion analysis and ruminant growth analysis. Forage relative growth rate [RGR] was related to the decr ease in dry matter digestibility with forage growth through forage lignific ation to form indigestible materials. Ruminant RGR was described so as to i nclude forage dry matter digestibility as one of the components. Daily fora ge intake of the animal, which was one of the components of ruminant RGR, w as described using net assimilation rate and leaf area of the forage that w ere components of forage absolute growth rate. Ruminant RGR was also relate d to production and utilization characteristics of forages and metabolic ch aracteristics of ruminants. Thus, the present study using simple equations suggested that there were relationships among forage growth analysis, forag e digestion analysis and ruminant growth analysis.