bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of formaldehyde treatment of high quality pasture hay on its utilization by weaner sheep
Authors: Barton NJ , McLaughlin JW
Published: March 2005

Pasture hay of 18 per cent crude protein content was chaffed and sprayed with an 8 per cent solution of formaldehyde in a concrete mixer. This, or similar untreated chaffed hay was fed to Merino weaner sheep in four experiments as follows: 1. Twenty-four sheep grazing in a 0.9 ha paddock were penned individually three times a week and fed 700 g of either treated or untreated hay. During the intervening periods they were released and allowed to graze. 2. Twelve sheep penned indoors were given 300 g day-l of either treated or untreated hay as a supplement to a basal diet of hay which contained nine per cent crude protein. 3. Twelve sheep penned indoors were fed either treated or untreated hay ad libitum. 4. Six sheep in metabolism cages were fed either treated or untreated hay at a daily rate of 52 g kg-I liveweight0.75 A crossover experimental design was used. Wool production, body growth and, in experiment 4,nitrogen balance were recorded. Attempts were also made to gauge the effectiveness of the treatments in protecting the protein from ruminal degradation. Although the level of protection obtained compared favourably with that obtained by other workers with forages, significant differences in animal production were shown only in experiment 2, where the basal hay was utilized less efficiently for body growth when the supplement was treated, in experiment 3. where treated hay was utilized less efficiently for body growth, and in experiment 4, where wool growth was increased by 10 per cent and nitrogen retention was also increased by treatment of the hay. It was concluded that the magnitude of any likely beneficial response to treatment is too small to warrant this treatment of hay being undertaken on a large scale.
Some factors affecting the establishment and early production of oversown grasses
Authors: Dowling PM , Robinson GG
Published: March 2005

The effects of rate of sowing, herbicide, and superphosphate on seedling establishment of two oversown improved grass species, their sward performance, and the resultant soil phosphate levels were studied in two experiments at Glen Innes, New South Wales in 1973. The experimental area had received 1250 kg ha-1 superphosphate prior to sowing and was carrying native grasses and white clover (Trifolium repens). In the first experiment, treatments applied were combinations of: four sowing rates (5.5, 11, 22, 44 kg ha-1) ; three herbicide rates (0 + 0, 8.3 + 0.55, 49.5 + 3.3 kg a.i. ha-1 2,2-DPA 4- amitrole) and two superphosphate rates (0, 250 kg ha-1). In the second experiment, three rates each of herbicide (0 + 0, 8.3 + 0.55, 16.6 + 1.1 kg a.i. ha-1 2,2-DPA + amitrole) and superphosphate (0, 125, 250 kg ha-1) were applied in a factorial design. Both experiments were sown with Phalaris aquatica and Festuca arundinacea. For both species, seedling numbers increased as herbicide and sowing rates increased but declined with superphosphate application. These main effects were more pronounced during the earlier samplings. Seedling numbers of both species, particularly phalaris declined with time. As herbicide rates increased, total dry matter production was progressively reduced, but production of fescue increased from 19 to 232 and phalaris from 0.5 to 60 kg dry matter ha-1. The addition of superphosphate eliminated the adverse effect of herbicide on the legume component. Superphosphate increased fescue dry matter production but decreased that of phalaris. Prior application of herbicide at the heaviest rate and superphosphate applied at 125 kg ha-1, both increased soil phosphate by approximately the same amount (7.5 and 8.2 p.p.m. respectively).
Comparison of some Stylosanthes species at three sites in central Queensland
Authors: Edye LA , Field JB , Bishop HG , Hall RL , Prinsen JH , Walker B
Published: March 2005

Nineteen accessions of eight Stylosanthes species were grown in association with volunteer species (mainly native grasses) for three years in small mown swards at three different sites in central Queensland. The outstanding accessions for dry matter yield were S. scabra 40292 and 40205: they significantly out-yielded S. hamata cv. Verano at all three sites and their plant densities in the third year at the wettest site were significantly higher than all other accessions except S. scabra 49833. At all sites, 'Verano' gave significantly higher mean annual dry matter yields than S. guyanensis cv. Oxley and S. humilis cv. Paterson. Other accessions that showed promise were S. scabra 49833 and 40289 and S. viscosa 34904: the latter accession performed relatively better at the wettest site.
Assessment of annual legumes for pastures in the low rainfall wheatbelt of central western New South Wales
Authors: Scott BJ , Brownlee H
Published: March 2005

Dry matter production and seed yields of a range of annual legumes grown in ungrazed swards were measured between 1966 and 1971 on seven sites in the low rainfall wheatbelt of central western New South Wales. Jemalong and Hannaford barrel medics (Medicago truncatula) were the highest yielding medic cultivars tested. Jemalong medic was slightly superior to Hannaford in dry matter production but seed yields were equal. The short season subterranean clovers (Trifolium subterraneum), Dwalganup and Geraldton, yielded much less dry matter and seed than the medics in most experiments. Although the mid-season subterranean clovers, Woogenellup and Clare, persisted for the duration of our experiments, their production was not as consistent as that of the medics, and plant densities decreased. The rose clovers (T. hirtum), Sirint and Kondinin, the cupped clovers (T. cherleri), Beenong and Yamina, and Snail (M. scutellata) and Paragosa (M. rugosa) medics did not produce satisfactory swards.
Assessments of potassium and sulphur fertilizer requirements of wheat in Western Australia
Authors: Colwell JD , Grove TS
Published: March 2005

Significant responses to potassium and/or sulphur fertilizers are reported for 20 from a total of 86 fertilizer experiments in the wheat-belt of Western Australia. The yield responses to these nutrients were generally small, but are considered to be important as possible first manifestations of deficiencies that could develop on a wide variety of soils in this region. The sulphur deficiency could develop quickly if low sulphur content phosphatic fertilizers replaced the traditional superphosphate for wheat production.
Correction of iron deficiency in peas by foliar sprays
Authors: Seeliger MT , Moss DE
Published: March 2005

A severe iron deficiency in peas grown on grey to black clay loam soil overlying limestone (rendzina) was successfully ameliorated by foliar application of ferrous sulphate. Two applications, three weeks apart, increased the fresh weight of peas harvested by more than 100 per cent (P < 0.001). The two sprays also increased the numbers of pods, dry weight of the pods, fresh weight per pea and maturity of the peas (all P < 0.001), and herbage yield (P < 0.01). One application of iron sulphate was insufficient to arrest completely the symptoms of iron deficiency. The peas did not show vegetative or marsh spot symptoms of manganese deficiency, and there were no significant changes in measurements to manganese sprays.
Factors affecting seedbed properties of cracking clay soils of the Darling Downs
Authors: Yule DF , Coughlan KJ , Fox WE
Published: March 2005

Eleven clay soils were sampled on the Darling Downs, Queensland. Five of the soils (group a) rarely exhibit poor wheat seedling emergence, but emergence problems are common in the remaining six soils (group b). The dry aggregate size distribution of prepared seedbeds was measured along with a number of basic soil characteristics. The modal aggregate size in both groups is 5-2 mm, but in group (a) sizes <2 mm are favoured as against aggregates >5 mm, whereas the reverse is true for group (b). These trends represent a natural characteristic of the groups, and are not the result of cultivation practices. The geometric mean size of dry aggregates of the two groups is significantly different as is the electrical conductivity of 1:1 soil:water suspensions. The possible causality of these soil properties is discussed, but no satistactory explanation is proposed.
Diagnostic leaf analysis for stone fruit. 7. Effects of fertilizer nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium on leaf composition of peach
Authors: Leece DR
Published: March 2005

The effects of fertilizer nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium on the leaf composition of Halehaven peach trees were measured for two seasons in a factorial experiment conducted in a block of mature, bearing trees on a sandy loam soil. Fertilizer nitrogen increased the leaf concentrations of nitrogen, iron, copper, manganese and zinc, and decreased the concentrations of potassium, calcium, magnesium and boron. Phosphorus concentration was not changed. Effects of fertilizer phosphorus and potassium on leaf composition were very slight and would not have been of practical importance in diagnosis by leaf analysis.
Effect of management system and stocking rate on the performance of ewes and lambs
Authors: Hill BD , Saville DG
Published: March 2005

A grazing experiment was conducted at Cowra, on the western slopes of New South Wales, on a pasture consisting of lucerne (Medicago sativa) and annual species including capeweed (Arctotheca calendula), barley grass (Hordeum leporinum). wimmera ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) and subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) . The performance of Border Leicesterx Merino ewes mated to Dorset Horn rams and the growth of their progeny was compared under rotational and set stocked grazing management systems, with and without a 20 per cent area of lucerne saved for grazing when additional feed was required. There was one stocking rate (8.7 ewes ha-1) in 1966 and two (8.7 ewes ha-1 and 13.0 ewes ha-1) in 1967 to 1969. Rotational grazing decreased the lamb growth rate but increased the number of lambs born. The management system did not affect the body weight or wool production of the ewes. Lucerne was quickly eliminated from the set stocked areas and was greatly reduced in the rotational systems. Capeweed became dominant in the set stocked areas. Saving increased the number of lambs born at the high stocking rate in 1967 to 1969. In 1966 saving reduced lamb growth, ewe body weight and wool growth in the rotational system. The high stocking rate increased wool production per hectare, but decreased the number of lambs born and, in 1967, the lamb growth rate.
Studies on the supplementary feeding of sheep consuming mulga (Acacia aneura). 3. The provision of phosphorus, molasses and urea supplements under pen conditions
Authors: McMeniman NP
Published: March 2005

Mulga (Acacia aneura) was fed to five groups of four weaner wethers. One group was given a supplement of phosphorus (P) as NaH2PO4, another energy as molasses (E), a third both phosphorus and molasses (P + E) and the fourth urea, phosphorus and molasses (P + E + N) ; the fifth group acted as an unsupplemented control (C). Total dry matter intake during the 42 weeks of the experiment was progressively increased by the addition of P, E, P + E and P + E + N to the diet. Liveweight gain was highest inthe P + E + Ngroup followed by the P + Egroupandthen the E group. Groups P and C lost weight during the experiment. Balance studies showed that P + E and P + E + N supplementation enhanced nitrogen retention, and phosphorus supplementation increased phosphorus retention. The digestibility of mulga was increased by phosphorus supplementation. Specific gravity and phosphorus content per unit volume of bone were increased by supplementation with P + E + N and P + E, and phosphorus content was marginally increased by P supplementation.
The effect of protein level on the performance of dwarf and normal crossbred layers
Authors: Polkinghorne RW
Published: March 2005

Dwarf and normal crossbred layers from Australorp dams by White Leghorn sires that were heterozygous for a sex-linked recessive dwarfing gene were compared at four protein levels (15, 17, 18 and 19 per cent). Relative to normal birds, dwarfs laid 19.1 per cent fewer eggs at 11.2 per cent lighter egg weight to give a reduction of 28.0 per cent in average egg mass per bird. Dwarfs consumed 28.2 per cent less feed than their normal relatives but showed no difference in the conversion of feed to eggs. Analyses of the effect of protein level of the rations, which included a wider range of protein levels than those used in the comparison of dwarfs and normals, showed that both genotypes had similar responses to increased protein level with, in general, no significant responses in production characters past a level of about 17 per cent protein.
The effects of rates of stocking with rotational grazing on the productivity of dryland lucerne at Tamworth, New South Wales
Authors: Thompson JA , Sheridan KP , Hamilton BA
Published: March 2005

A two-year-old stand of Hunter River lucerne (Medicago sativa) at Tamworth Agricultura Research Centre was grazed for three years with dry ewes at five stocking rates (8-21 sheep ha-1) in a flexible rotational system with six paddocks. At each stocking rate, sheep were moved between paddocks on the basis of feed availability, and excess forage was harvested as hay. At the lowest stocking rate a fixed rotation with weekly moves and no harvesting of hay was also examined. Sheep were fed with hay when necessary to maintain mean body weight above 38.5 kg. Lucerne production under grazing was measured from temporarily exclosed areas under grazing and compared with the production from permanently exclosed areas. Up to the median stocking rate of 15 sheep ha-1 a surplus of hay remained at the end of the experiment. At higher stocking rates a deficit resulted and sheep body weights declined severely in autumn and winter in all treatments. The highest stocking rate of 21 sheep ha-1 was terminated after 18 months. Mean annual yield of clean wool increased linearly (P < 0.01) from 32 kg ha-1 at the lowest stocking rate to 45 kg ha-1 with 18 sheep ha-1. The decline of lucerne density was related to stocking rate but significant differences in density were not reflected in lucerne production. Lucerne production under grazing was strongly seasonal with the highest yields measured in spring and summer when hay was harvested. Although production in ungrazed exclosures was comparable with that of grazed areas in autumn and winter it was much greater during spring. It would appear that a more lenient system of grazing management is necessary during the cool months in this environment to maximize lucerne production during the spring and summer. This is feasible in the whole farm situation where alternate crops are available.
The role of pycnidiospores of Leptosphaeria maculans in the spread of blackleg disease in rape
Authors: Barbetti MJ
Published: March 2005

The development and spread of blackleg leaf, stem and crown infections in rape plants (Brassica napus cv. Zephyr), caused by Leptosphaeria maculans pycnidiospores, was examined under field conditions for plants artificially inoculated at 3, 5 1/2 and 8 1/2 weeks of age. Spread of leaf, stem and crown infections, via pycnidiospores, occurred for inoculations made on 3- and 5 1/2-week-old plants. Inoculation at three weeks oflage resulted in theigreatest disease spread. There was no leaf infection spread and very little stem and crown infection spread for the inoculation made on the 8 1/2-week-old plants.
Studies on bacterial soft rot of celery in Victoria
Authors: Wimalajeewa DLS
Published: March 2005

The causal organism of bacterial soft rot of celery was isolated and characterized, and its control was studied. The causal organism was identified as Erwinia carotovora var. carotovora (Jones) Dye. It was also pathogenic on potato in the glasshouse, causing atypical black leg symptoms. The practical implications of this finding are discussed. Infection appeared to occur at all temperatures tested in the range 1-35�C. Disease development was optimal at 30�C, but was completely checked at 1�C. Four chemicals were evaluated in the laboratory for control in transit and storage. Sodium hypochlorite provided the best control. Two copper fungicides were evaluated in the field. Cupric hydroxide provided the best control. The suitability of using this fungicide for the control of Septoria leaf spot as wall, during summer, is discussed.
Alternaria carthami, a seed-borne pathogen of safflower
Authors: Irwin JAG
Published: March 2005

The fungus Alternaria carthami, which causes leaf blight of safflower, was found to be seed borne. Although some seeds from which A. carthami was isolated were visually discoloured, it was also possible to isolate A. carthami from non-discoloured seeds. A. carthami isolated from seed produced typical leaf blight symptoms in glasshouse inoculations. The fungus reduced seed quality and caused pre-emergence death, seedling death and diseased seedlings. The importance of seedling infection by seed-borne A. carthami was demonstrated by the rapid build up of the disease in the field following the planting of infected seed. Relatively poor levels of control of seed-borne infection were achieved with fungicides when applied as a dust to the seed coat.
Studies on the use of 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid (ethephon) as a thinning agent for Jonathan apples
Authors: Veinbrants N , Hutchinson JF
Published: March 2005

In several experiments in Victoria, a single spray of the growth regulator 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid at 200 p.p.m., applied at full bloom, at 7 days and at 35 days after full bloom reduced the fruit density highly significantly on Jonathan apples and resulted in adequate fruit thinning. In one season, 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid at 200 p.p.m., applied at full bloom, reduced the fruit density more effectively than a single spray of N.A.A. at 4 p.p.m. or carbaryl at 800 p.p.m., applied 14 days after full bloom, The following year all three spray treatments applied at the same concentrations and the same timings were equally effective in reducing fruit set. 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid thins Jonathans over a long period and it seems that there are two very sensitive periods for fruit thinning, one at about full bloom, and a second about 35 days after. No differences have been observed on fruit finish, fruit shape, flesh firmness or incidence of storage disorders of Jonathan apples following thinning sprays of 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid compared with N.A.A. or carbaryl.
Effect of dehorning and tipping on liveweight gain of mature Brahman crossbred steers
Authors: Winks L , Holmes AE , O'Rourke PK
Published: March 2005

The effects of dehorning and heavy tipping on the liveweight gains of mature Brahman crossbred steers in north Queensland were measured in two experiments. Both operations caused significant (P<0.01) depressions in liveweight gains in the month following the operations. Five months after the operations, dehorned steers had gained 10.2 kg (P<0.05) and 13.6 kg (P<0.01) less than horned steers in experiments 1 and 2 respectively. During this period tipped steers gained less (8.6 kg) (P<0.05) than horned steers in experiment 1 only. The significance of this depression in relation to level of bruising trim is discussed.
Residues of dioxathion in adipose tissue of cattle subjected to multiple dippings
Authors: Palmer WA , Dingle JHP , O'Neill GH
Published: March 2005

Two experiments were conducted at the Cattle Tick Research Station, Wollongbar, to ascertain the accumulation and degradation of residues in the adipose tissue of beef cattle after exposure to the acaricide, dioxathion. In the first experiment, six beasts were given an abnormally high exposure (three dippings in 0.075 per cent dioxathion within two hours) and subcutaneous fat samples were collected on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 8th and 11t h day after treatment. In the second experiment, 40 beasts were dipped three times at five day intervals in this acaricide as if to completely cleanse them of cattle tick, Boophilus microplus. Four beasts were sampled before and after slaughter on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 8th, loth, 12th, 16th and 32nd day after the last dipping. The following conclusions were reached : 1. Maximum residues of dioxathion in adipose tissue occur two to four days after treatment. 2. The half life for the disappearance of residues, once maximum levels were reached, was 16 days, and this was similar to that of some other commonly used organophosphorus acaricides (eg. ethion, chlorpyrifos) 3. Biopsy of the subcutaneous fat from the gluteal region was an acceptably reliable method for estimating residue levels in the fat depots of a beast. It is recommended that cattle subjected to three dippings at five day intervals in dioxathion be withheld from slaughter for a period of at least six weeks to allow residues to fall below the Australian maximum residue limit of 1 mg kg-1.
Effects of fertilizer and stocking rate on pasture and beef production from sown pastures in northern Cape York Peninsula. 1. Botanical and chemical composition of the pastures
Authors: Winter WH , Edye LA , Megarrity RG , Williams WT
Published: March 2005

The seasonal changes in the yield, botanical composition and chemical composition (nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur) of the pasture plants were measured in a grazing experiment over three years. The 48 treatments were factorial combinations of two different grasses with a common legume mixture, three annual maintenance rates of phosphorus fertilizer, four stocking rates of continuous grazing and two rates of phosphorus fed directly to the cattle. The pastures consisted of Brachiaria decumbens cv. Basilisk or Panicum maximum (common guinea grass) sown with Stylosanthes guyanensis cv. Endeavour and Macroptilium atropurpureum cv. Siratro. Brachiaria decumbens was more persistent than Panicum maximum when heavily stocked at low fertilizer phosphorus rates and in the latter half of each wet season the legume content of the Brachiaria pastures was lower. Of the two grasses, Panicum maximum contained the higher N, P and S contents. In the third year 20 kg ha-1 of phosphorus gave higher yields than 10 kg ha-1 without affecting the chemical or botanical composition of the pastures but 40 kg ha-1 decreased the legume content of the pastures and raised the phosphorus levels in stylo. Pasture yield decreased with increasing stocking rate with only minor effects on the botanical composition of the pastures. However, there was a concomitant increase in pasture quality, particularly in phosphorus content, with increasing stocking rate.
Effect of planting date on soybeans in the Namoi Valley, New South Wales
Authors: Constable GA
Published: March 2005

The effect of planting date on phasic development, LAI, yield, yield determinants and seed quality of soybeans was studied in eight seasons. For all development phases up to the end of flowering, each phase was longer for longer daylengths within a cultivar, with later maturing cultivars having increasing sensitivity to daylength. LAI at flowering for each treatment was a function of time from flowering. The yield of Bragg and indeterminate cultivars (Wayne, Delmar and Ruse) decreased if planted in early November. There was generally a decreased yield at a late January planting due to small plant size (low LAI and few mainstem nodes) and in some instances, decreased seed size. Planting dates in December appeared to be optimum, although season and cultivar differences occurred. Seed oil content decreased and protein content increased as planting was delayed.
Effect of irrigation termination on yield of soybeans in southern New South Wales
Authors: Thompson JA
Published: March 2005

The seasonal water demand and the influence of the time of final irrigation on seed yield of soybeans was determined under furrow irrigation. The three times of final irrigation were ten days after the end of flowering; when the top pods contained full size beans; and when 95 per cent of the pods had turned brown (P95). Measurements of plant height, percent ground cover and leaf relative water content indicated that the irrigation schedule imposed did not limit crop growth. Crop water use was 730 mm or 76 per cent of pan evaporation. Highly significant increases in seed yield due mainly to increased seed weight were obtained by extending the irrigation period. Applying water after the top pods contained full size beans increased yield by 538 kg ha-1 or 16.1 per cent. There was little effect on oil and protein content. The number of days from emergence to P95 was increased from 108 to 11 9 by later irrigations. The irrigation schedule should keep water readily available until physiological maturity of the crop; for cv. Clark 63 this is only three days prior to P95.
Initial and subsequent yield reduction of peach trees affected by peach rosette and decline disease
Authors: Smith PR , Challen DK
Published: March 2005

Fruit yields were compared in the orchard between symptomless peach trees and trees naturally affected with peach rosette and decline (PRD). Trees not affected with PRD yielded three times the crop, by weight, obtained from trees affected for the first season and six times that of trees affected for the second season. Individually affected limbs on otherwise symptomless trees produced 15 per cent of the crop obtained from limbs on unaffected trees. The crop from apparently symptomless limbs on newly affected trees was only 46 per cent of that obtained from limbs on trees not showing symptoms of PRD. It was calculated that the yield of fruit from an affected peach orchard was reduced by 13.2 per cent five years after the disease was first detected in the planting.
Effect of pasture type and supplementary feeding on the reproductive performance of cattle in the dry tropics of north Queensland
Authors: Holroyd RG , Allan PJ , O'Rourke PK
Published: March 2005

A study was made over a four year period ( 1970-1 973) on the reproductive performance of cows grazing either native pasture stocked at 1 breeder 4.9 ha-1 or native pasture oversown with Townsville stylo (Stylosanthes humilis) and fertilized with superphosphate, stocked at 1 breeder 2.4 ha-1. Animals were supplemented on each pasture type with combinations of molasses, urea and phosphorus at various times of the year. Mating from September 1 to January 31 resulted in animals lactating during the dry season. At double the stocking rate, lactating cows on fertilized pastures had similar conception rates to those on native pasture. During a prolonged dry season, lactating cows on fertilized pasture had twice the conception rate and fewer required survival feeding. Urea compared with non-urea based supplements produced significant increases in conception rates of cows grazing native pasture especially during a dry year. Calves were born earlier, had shorter intercalving intervals and fewer cows had to be fed a survival ration when urea was available. On fertilized pasture, urea based supplements caused only a marginal increase in conception rate except in a dry year, when there was a significant increase. Over the four years, there was a diminishing response in the conception rate of lactating cows grazing native pasture and supplemented with phosphorus during the wet season compared with the control. On fertilized pasture, there was a variable but non-significant response. The addition of phosphorus either as a wet or dry season supplement to urea caused variable responses on each pasture type, but none differed significantly from that of urea.
Effects of antibiotics, dried molasses distillers solubles and zeranol in all-sorghum grain rations fed to steers
Authors: Gartner RJW , O'Rourke PK
Published: March 2005

A 23 factorial design was used to examine the effects of the following treatments on the productivity of steers fed in yards on an all-sorghum grain ration : nil vs. 70 mg chlortetracycline head-1 day-1; nil vs. 3 per cent dried molasses distillers solubles; nil vs. 36 mg implant of Zeranol. An additional treatment eompared zinc bacitracin with chlortetracycline. Eighteen groups each of five Hereford steers of a mean initial shrunk liveweight of 273.5 � SE 1.00 kg were used. They were slaughtered at a mean final shrunk liveweight of 399.8 � 2.97 kg. Mean results were: liveweight gain 1 .17 kg day-1, carcase weight gain 0.69 kg day-1, DM feed intake 6.91 kg day-1, feed conversion ratio 6.0. Feeding chlortetracycline resulted in increased carcase weight gain, an improved feed conversion ratio and a reduction in the number of liver abscesses. Regarding productivity, zinc bacitracin was not significantly different from chlortetracycline but it had no effect on reducing liver abscesses. Adding dried molasses distillers solubles caused a decrease in live- and carcase weight gain and an inferior feed conversion ratio. The anabolic implant Zeranol resulted in increased live- and carcase weight gain, increased DM feed intake but no significant differences in feed conversion ratio. The treatments had no effect on eye muscle area or muscle percentage of the carcases. Dried molasses distillers solubles was associated with a lower fat percentage (1 9.5 vs. 20.8 � 0.43; P <0.05). The rationsbsed resulted in an acetic to propionic ratio in ruminal fluid of 0.44 :1. There were no interactions and the usefulness of chlortetracycline and Zeranol and the poorer production using molasses distillers solubles in all-grain diets are discussed.
The use of colostrum preserved with formalin for rearing calves
Authors: Kaiser AG
Published: March 2005

Two experiments were conducted to examine the use of formalin-treated colostrum as a diet for young calves. Calves were reared on either whole milk, colostrum or preserved colostrum in the first experiment, and on whole milk or preserved colostrum in the second experiment. The preserved colostrum diet contained 0.1 per cent formalin, and all diets were offered at 12 per cent of liveweight daily. Preserved colostrum was stored for up to 24 days and storage losses were 16 per cent. It was generally acceptable to calves, did not influence the incidence of scouring, but reduced liveweight gain (P < 0.05, experiment 1). However, the mean difference in total liveweight gain over 28 days for calves reared on whole milk or preserved colostrum was only 1.4 kg. It was considered that formalin treatment offers a low cost means of preserving surplus colostrum, thereby improving its utilization for calf rearing on dairy farms.
Diet selection and intake by sheep and cattle grazing together on stubbles of wheat, oats or barley
Authors: Mulholland JG , Coombe JB , McManus WR
Published: March 2005

Single plots of wheat, oats and barley stubbles were grazed by sheep and cattle in common on a 19 day rotation for 76 days. Initially the stubbles contained 600-1200 kg dry matter ha-1 of green weeds and 3300-4800 kg dry matter ha-1 of cereal residues. Serial estimates were made of diet selection, in vitro digestibility and intake by both species. Sheep consistently selected a diet with a higher proportion of green material than did cattle, but neither species utilized the crop residues to any extent. The overall mean digestibilities of the diet were 68 and 54 per cent fop sheep and cattle respectively (P < 0.01) ; the mean N concentration in the faeces of sheep was 0.64 percentage units higher than for cattle (P < 0.01). Differences in selection by the animals were greatest at the lowest level of green plant material. Estimates of the mean daily intakes of DOM (g kg-1) per unit of metabolic liveweight (W0.9) were 32 and 15, and of dead plant material dry matter (g kg-1) 4.2 and 13.2 for sheep and cattle respectively. There were no differences in selection between stubble species. The results are discussed in relation to maximizing the use of cereal stubbles for animal production.
Effect of hay plus crushed or whole lupin grain on the growth and carcase fat cover of heifers and lambs
Authors: Hawthorne WA , Fromm GM
Published: March 2005

Heifers and weaner lambs were offered a ration of approximately 40 per cent lupin grain (either whole or hammermilled) and 60 per cent pasture hay for 48 days and 27 or 55 days respectively. Some lambs were offered a choice between lupins and hay for an additional 42 days. These animals selected a ration containing 85 per cent lupins. No significant differences were obtained in liveweight gain or carcase fat cover when the lupins were fed whole or hammermilled. The mean growth rate of the heifers and lambs was 0.97 kg day-1 and 77 g day-1' respectively when lupins comprised 40 per cent of the ration. The lambs offered free choice had a mean growth rate of 160 g day-1 over 42 days.
Relationships in the sheep of ovulation rate with liveweight, breed, season and plane of nutrition
Authors: Cumming IA
Published: March 2005

This paper presents a study in the ewe of the relationship between liveweight and ovulation rate and factors affecting this relationship. A series of 11 experiments conducted in Victoria are reported in which 3017 Saxon or Peppin Merino, Border Leicester x Merino or Perendale ewes were used. There was an increase in mean ovulation rate per ewe of 0 to 0.44 for every 10 kg increase in liveweight of ewes within a flock. However, in most flocks the increase was in the order of 0.25 to 0.30 for each 10 kg increase. The response was least when mean liveweights of ewes were lowest and when ewes were studied either about the summer solstice or about the beginning of the breeding season. Breed of ewe effects on the liveweight-ovulation rate relationship were greatest when the Saxon Merino and Border Leicester x Merino ewes were compared at a January-February joining compared with an April-May joining. The Merinos had entered their sexual season in October-November whereas the crossbreds failed to exhibit regular oestrous cycles until January. In the one experiment in which face cover was studied, open faced Merino ewes had lower ovulation rates than woolly faced ewes at a January-February mating but had Mgher ovulation rates at the April-May mating. Liveweight alone was found to be as accurate a predictor of ovulation rate as both liveweight and body condition. Plane of nutrition at mating was not shown to affect ovulation rates significantly in the experiments reported in this paper. However, further studies on the interrelationships between nutritional inputs, skeletal size, season and genotype are strongly recommended.
A comparison of the performance of single and twin born Corriedale ewes and lambs
Authors: Baharin K , Beilharz RG
Published: March 2005

Reproductive performance of Corriedale sheep from the experimental farm at Mount Derrimut, Victoria, was studied over five years (1 968 to 1972) in a flock selected for the production of medium wool and the ability to produce twins. Traits measured included fertility at mating, lambing rate, twinning rate, mortality at birth and interval between mating and lambing. Ewes born as twins were less fertile at first mating, improved rapidly in their reproductive performance at subsequent matings, but then declined in fertility quite early in their breeding life. Twin lambs had a mortality rate at birth nearly three times that of singles, were lighter at birth, grew slowly up to weaning and produced less wool at weaning. Female lambs conceived as co-twins with male lambs tended to be disadvantaged in heir pre-natal development which could be due to an enhancement effect exhibited by the male co-twin.
An analysis of reproductive performance in pigs based on records of performance of the boar
Authors: Baharin K , Beilharz RG
Published: March 2005

The reproductive performance of 308 boars with total records of 9220 matings from a large commercial farm was analysed. The boars were purebred Large White, Landrace and from the newly synthesized M breed and were mated to purebred and crossbred sows of the same breeds. The M breed was derived from crossing between Large White and Landrace pigs with foundation females selected on the basis of their ability to produce large litters. Over half the total records were from matings with sows of parity 1 and parity 2. Overall production statistics were 78.8 per cent conception rate, an average total litter size of 9.3 pigs born per litter, 6.5 per cent stillbirths, an average litter weight (live piglets) at birth of 12.2 kg, average birth weight per piglet of 1.43 kg and average gestation length of 11 5 days. Most of the traits analysed showed significant effects due to parity of dams, with performance increasing from parity 1 to parity 6 to 8, after which the performance began to decline. There were significant heterosis effects (mainly maternal) on reproduction of the sows and survival performance of the litters resulting in an estimated improvement of 11 per cent in number of live pigs born, 12.4 per cent in total litter weight at birth and 35 per cent reduction in stillbirths. Heritability estimates were generally low for most traits except for boar conception rate which was moderate (0.29).
Nutritional evaluation of six protein concentrates for the pig
Authors: Kondos AC
Published: March 2005

Experiments with growing pigs fed isonitrogenous diets were done to compare the nutritional value of two new protein sources, blood protein (globulin) and prawn-head protein concentrate, with that of soybean meal (extracted), meat meal (54 per cent CP), casein and gluten. Growth performance results expressed on a percentage basis of animals given the control diet rated as follows: soybean meal 90 per cent, blood protein and casein 82 per cent, meat meal 75 per cent, prawn-head meal 70 per cent and gluten 63 per cent. From results on growth rate, efficiency of feed conversion and amino acids profiles, the two non-conventional protein concentrates appeared to be suitable for inclusion in the diets of monogastric animals.
Yields of protein extracted from a range of northern Victorian herbage
Authors: McKenzie DR
Published: March 2005

Leaf protein concentrate was extracted and measured in a range of commonly grown pasture plants and cereals in Victoria, with the aim of identifying species most suitable for a leaf protein concentrate industry. The effects of sward maturity, nitrogen fertilizer and pH, on protein extractability were examined. Best yields (1100 to 1500 kg ha-1) of extractable protein were obtained from irrigated lucerne and white clover. Extractable protein yield from perennial grass, cereals and lucerne declined rapidly with maturity, whereas lupins, vetch and white clover were much less affected by maturity. Soursob in mixed pasture reduced yields by reducing pH of juice. Nitrogen fertilizer applied in spring on a mixed pasture reduced the clover content and consequently the extractable protein yield.
The effects of fertilizers, herbicides and grazing intensity on the incidence of firewood (Senecio lautus) in sub-tropical pastures
Authors: Martin RJ , Colman RL
Published: March 2005

The incidence of fireweed (Senecio lautus) in carpet grass (axonopus affinis) dominant pastures was studied in two cutting experiments and a grazing trial at the Agricultural Research Centre, Wollongbar. Experiments were conducted on pastures initially dominated by carpet grass. Lower fireweed density resulted from higher herbage production or changes in botanical composition from carpet grass to the more competitive paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum) and kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum). These changes were rapidly achieved by the application of nitrogen fertilizer. Super phosphate application and management for clover development favoured invasion by fireweed in the initial stage. Subsequently the effect of superphosphate was similar to that of nitrogen fertilizer due to the response of more productive grasses to nitrogen fixed by clover. Under grazing, the density of fireweed was increased by high stocking rates, but was reduced markedly by a change to kikuyu grass dominance even under heavy grazing. Fireweed density was negatively related to per cent kikuyu grass. The densities of fireweed measured were not high and classification of fireweed as an undesirable species in these pastures is questioned. This conclusion may not apply to areas improved with temperate pasture species or in cultivations.
A study on pollination of lupins (Lupinus angustifolius)
Authors: Langridge DF , Goodman RD
Published: March 2005

Mean yields of seed from lupins (Lupinus angustifolius) were significantly greater from plots to which bees and larger insects had access than from plots from which these insects were excluded. There was no difference in the mean germination and weight of 1000 seeds from open and closed plots. Bees collected appreciable quantities of pollen from lupin flowers and the nectar gathered allowed colonies to build up to swarming point and store surplus honey. Wind pollination of lupins seems to be negligible but self-pollination is important. Bee activity on lupins makes them important agents of cross-pollination. Economic factors of seed price and cost of hire of bees are important in determining the feasibility of hiring bees for pollination of lupins.
Optimum irrigation rates for young trickle irrigated peach trees
Authors: Black JDF , Mitchell PD , Newgreen PN
Published: March 2005

At the Scoresby Horticultural Research Station in the 1973-74 season an empirical formula was developed to relate the water needs of young peach trees to tree size as measured by butt area and evaporation demand as measured with a Class A pan evaporimeter. The formula was expressed as litres per cm2 of butt area per cm of evaporation. Nine rates of irrigation were tested. These rose by 0.5 litre increments from 0.5 litres to 4.5 litres. Trees were selected over a wide size range. Irrigation quantities were adjusted fortnightly to butt area. The smaller the initial size of the tree at planting the lower the rate of irrigation required for maximum growth, but with the tree sizes covered in the trial (a range in initial butt area of 0.54 cm2 to 3.68 cm2) 95 per cent of the maximum growth response occurred between irrigation rates of 2.5 and 3.5 litres per cm2 of butt area per cm of evaporation. At the higher irrigation rates the bigger the tree at planting the greater the response to irrigation.
Influence of level of concentrate feeding on milk production and pasture utilization by Friesian cows grazing tropical grass-legume pasture
Authors: Cowan RT , Davison TM , O'Grady P
Published: March 2005

Four groups of four Friesian cows grazed green panic (Panicum maximum var. trichog1ume)- glycine (Glycine wightii cv. Tinaroo) pastures at 4 cows ha-1 for 36 weeks from January to October 1975. Cows were individually fed 0, 2, 4 and 6 kg cow-1 day-1 respectively of a maize-soybean meal concentrate. Fat corrected milk (FCM) response to concentrate was linear and was related to the total concentrate intake (X) by the equation, FCM = 1992 + 1.03 X (R.S.D. � 23; P < 0.001) Persistency of lactation decreased with decreasing levels of concentrate feeding (P < 0.01) and lactation length was reduced for cows receiving low levels of concentrates (P < 0.05). Milk fat content was reduced (P < 0.05) and solids-not-fat and casein contents increased by concentrate feeding (P < 0.05). Cows fed 6 kg concentrate cow-1 day-1 were 50 kg cow-1 heavier at drying off than cows fed no concentrate (P < 0.05). Pasture yield on offer to cows was increased linearly with increased concentrate feeding (P < 0.05) and pasture intake by cows was estimated to decrease by 0.9 kg for each kg of concentrate fed (P < 0.05). FCM response to concentrate appeared to increase markedly when pasture on offer fell below 2500 kg DM ha-1. We conclude that FCM response to concentrate will usually be linear for cows grazing tropical pastures, and the size of this response will be strongly influenced by the period of feeding and the yield of pasture on offer to cows.
Evaluation of oat forage for finishing prime lambs on the Northern Tablelands, New South Wales
Authors: Archer KA , Swain FG
Published: March 2005

In 1967 at Armidale, New South Wales, oats (Avena sativa cv. Cooba) were grown with or without 180 kg N ha-I and rotationally grazed on a three paddock system from July 13 to November 16 with Border Leicester x Merino lambs. Stocking rates were 20,40 or 60 sheep ha-1 (experiment 1). In 1968 (experiment 2) oats were rotationally grazed on either a three or four paddock system at stocking rates of 20, 30 or 40 lambs ha-1. Grazing began on either June 6 or July 17 and terminated on November 20. The rotational grazing systems allowed for a grazing period of two weeks and regrowth periods of four or six weeks. Application of nitrogen increased the quantity of dry matter available prior to grazing in 1967 by 20 per cent but did not affect regrowth rates during winter and early spring. In 1968, approximately 33 per cent more forage was available prior to grazing in mid-July than in early June. There was little effect of grazing management on the rate of regrowth. In both years, regrowth rates were low during winter and carry over residue was required to provide a continuity of available forage. Liveweight gains of lambs during winter and early spring reached 170 to 200 g head-1 day-1 at stocking rates of 20 or 30 sheep ha-1 for the early and late commencement of grazing treatments respectively. Lower gains to 120 g head-1 day-1 were recorded for six to eight weeks at higher stocking rates but subsequent liveweight losses occurred; these being greater if grazing commenced early. Neither N nor grazing management system materially affected liveweight gains. Approximately 1.5 kg available dry matter head-1day-1 was required at the start of each fortnightly grazing period to ensure maximum liveweight gains
Replacement of meat and bone meal with whale meal or whale solubles in pig diets and the accumulation of mercury in the carcase
Authors: Godfrey NW
Published: March 2005

The effects of replacing all or part of the protein supplied by meat and bone meal with whale meal or whale solubles were studied in four experiments with growing pigs fed diets based on wheat and barley. The growth rate and feed conversion efficiency of pigs receiving whale meal were equal to those fed meat and bone meal, whereas the performance of pigs fed whale solubles was inferior. Both whale meal and whale solubles contained mercury which accumulated in the tissues of growing pigs. The level of mercury accumulated was related to the dietary concentration and type of whale product, the period of time during which it was fed, and the type of carcase tissue. Whale meal contained more mercury than whale solubles and produced higher concentrations of mercury in the tissues. The levels of mercury in the tissues of pigs at 45 kg liveweight were lower than those of pigs at 80-85 kg liveweight. When the diets included more than 1 per cent whalemeal or 3 per cent whale solubles, the carcases contained more mercury than is tolerated by the health standards.
Determination of kernel hardness of Australian wheats by a rapid grinding procedure
Authors: Orth RA
Published: March 2005

This paper describes a rapid grinding test for wheat hardness. The test requires 10 g of sample and can be performed at a rate of 20 samples per hour. When test values were correlated with a standard measure of wheat hardness, the particle size index test, coefficients of determination of 97.2 and 97.5 per cent respectively were obtained for 30 wheats each grown at Boort and at Dooen. Hardness values ranged from 2.46 to 6.08 g for the Boort wheats and from 2.11 to 5.18 g for the Dooen wheats. Standard deviations of 0.14 were calculated from duplicate determinations of hardness at each site. Wheat moisture did not significantly affect hardness values for two hard wheats but caused increased hardness values for two soft wheats. The test is considered as precise as the particle size index test and its practical advantages make it a more suitable test for evaluation of wheat hardness in breeding programs.