Paspalum notatum is nutritious, especially when used young or at early stage of regrowth. It is usually recommended for beef cattle rather than for dairy production (FAO, 2009). It is widely used as a component of intensively grazed pastures. Its palatability is good when young but decreases with age, and maintaining grazing pressure is necessary to avoid this. Some cultivars are more palatable than others. Addition of N fertilizer may improve intake since it enhances protein content (Cook et al., 2005).
Freshly ground Paspalum notatum was shown to retain nutrient quality when maturing (Arthington et al., 2005). In Japan, Paspalum notatum pasture was well utilized by breeding cows and provided sufficient digestible energy and protein (Hirata et al., 2003). In steers, Paspalum notatum had the lowest crude protein and NDF digestibility levels when compared with limpograss (Hemarthria altissima), stargrass (Cynodon nlemfuensis) and bluestem (Schizachyrium stoloniferum) (Horton et al., 1994).
In sheep, the feeding value of fresh Paspalum notatum was better than dwarf bamboo (Pleioblastus argenteostriatus f. glaber) (Yayota et al., 2009).
