It is widely accepted that the Marginal Value Theorem (MVT) describes optimal foraging strategies of animals and the mechanism proposed by the MVT has been supported by a number of field observations. However, finding...It is widely accepted that the Marginal Value Theorem (MVT) describes optimal foraging strategies of animals and the mechanism proposed by the MVT has been supported by a number of field observations. However, findings of many researchers indicate that in natural conditions foragers do not always behave according to the MVT. To address this inconsistency, in a series of computer simulation experiments, we examined the behaviour of four types of foragers having specific foraging efficiencies and using the MVT strategies in 15 different landscapes in an ideal environment (no intra-and inter-specific interactions). We used data on elk (Cervus elaphus) to construct our virtual forager. Contrary to the widely accepted understanding of the MVT (residence time in a patch should be longer in environments where travel time between patches is longer) we found that in environments with the same average patch quality and varying average travel times between patches, patch residence times of some foragers are not affected by travel times. Based on our analysis we propose a mechanism responsible for this observation and formulate the perfect forager theorem (PFT). We also introduce the concepts of a foraging coefficient (F) and foragers’ hub (α), and propose a model to describe the relationship between the perfect forager and all other forager types.展开更多
Lesser kestrels Falco naumanni are migratory central-place foragers that breed in dynamic arable landscapes. After arriving from migration, kestrels have no knowledge of the distribution of crops, and consequently pre...Lesser kestrels Falco naumanni are migratory central-place foragers that breed in dynamic arable landscapes. After arriving from migration, kestrels have no knowledge of the distribution of crops, and consequently prey, around their colony. The energy demand of pairs increases as breeding season progresses, but at the same time prey abundance, and their knowledge on prey distribution, also increases. Wind can have a strong influence on flight cost and kestrels should try to reduce energy expendi- ture when possible. When prey abundance is low, kestrels have little knowledge of prey distribution, and pairs have no chicks, they could reduce foraging flight cost by leaving the colony with tailwinds. When prey is abundant, knowledge on prey distribu- tion has increased, and chick demand is high, kestrels should fly to the most favorable foraging patches. We analyzed foraging trips directions in a lesser kestrel colony along the breeding season and in relation to wind speed and direction. We recorded 664 foraging trips from 19 individuals using GPS-dataloggers. We found that outward flights direction changed from uniform to a concentrated distribution along the season, as prey abundance and individual experience increased. We also found a temporal trend in the angular difference between outward flights and wind directions, with low values early in the season and then increa- sing as expected, but again low values at the end, contrary to expectation. Results suggest changes in kestrels foraging strategy along the season in relation to wind. Kestrels depart more with tailwinds in exploratory flights early in the season, while there is a spurious coincidence in direction to preferred foraging patches and dominant wind direction at the end [Current Zoology 60 （5）： 604-615, 2014].展开更多
Social foraging is a collective solution to the challenge of catching prey.A remarkable example involving different predator species with complementary hunting skills is Lahille's bottlenose dolphins,Tursiops trun...Social foraging is a collective solution to the challenge of catching prey.A remarkable example involving different predator species with complementary hunting skills is Lahille's bottlenose dolphins,Tursiops truncatus gephyreus foraging with net-casting human fishers to catch migratory mullet,Mugil liza.It remains unknown,however,to what extent dolphins coordinate their own actions when foraging with humans,and how intraspecific coordination impacts interspecific foraging success.Using drone-based tracking,we quantified dolphin group surfacing behaviors(diving synchrony,proximity,and heading angles between individuals)and tested the repeatability of these behavioral metrics across independent human-dolphin cooperative foraging interactions.We then quantified how the variance and consistency in these behaviors influenced the likelihood of fishers catching mullet.We found repeatable patterns in dolphin group proximity and heading angles across cooperative foraging interactions with fishers,and that fishers were more successful at catching mullet when dolphins approached them along different trajectories with consistent diving synchrony.These findings suggest that groups of dolphins can be,to some extent,coordinated when fishing with humans,thereby influencing the collective outcome of this cooperative foraging tactic.We consider hypotheses for the underlying mechanisms of synchrony and coordination within groups of dolphins and highlight solutions for overcoming the inherent challenges associated with quantifying collective foraging dynamics in natural settings.展开更多
Artifcial light at night(ALAN)is a common anthropogenic disturbance,which alters animal behavior.However,little is known about the impact of the spectral composition of ALAN and co-occurring predation risk on the beha...Artifcial light at night(ALAN)is a common anthropogenic disturbance,which alters animal behavior.However,little is known about the impact of the spectral composition of ALAN and co-occurring predation risk on the behavior of aquatic organisms.We experimentally investigated how ALAN of different spectra(cool white LED and HPS light)affects the behavior and foraging of Gammarus jazdzewskii(Amphipoda)on chironomid prey,both as a single stressor and in combination with an olfactory predation cue.Gammarids exposed to ALAN in the absence of predation cues consumed less,compared with darkness,mainly due to their lower activity.Moreover,gammarids showed a stronger response to LED light,spending more time in the shelter and increasing prey handling time in this treatment.The addition of predation cues did not enhance the negative impact of ALAN on the foraging success.Gammarids maintained similar consumption levels as in the ALAN treatment without predation cues and in darkness with predation cues.However,gammarids in LED light altered their behavior in response to predation threat:they decreased prey handling time and consumed prey faster,which may have compensated for the higher food demand in stressful conditions.They also tended to exhibit risky behavior,leaving the shelter and moving towards the lit area,presumably to escape and avoid the combined effects of light and predation cues.Therefore,when assessing the effects of ALAN on organisms,light quality and co-occurring biotic factors should be considered,as predator pressure is common in natural environments.展开更多
Grain soybean(Glycine max(L.)Merr.)shows potential as a forage crop following its introduction from low to high latitudes due to in its growth phenotype.However,the application of this approach is impeded by the diver...Grain soybean(Glycine max(L.)Merr.)shows potential as a forage crop following its introduction from low to high latitudes due to in its growth phenotype.However,the application of this approach is impeded by the diverse ecological types of soybean,their adaptability to the introduction,and the uncertainty surrounding the growth phenotype post-introduction.This study introduced 24 grain soybean varieties from low-latitude regions(22-31°N)to the high-latitude northwestern Loess Plateau(39°N)between 2018 and 2019.The growth phenotypes were observed,and their forage productivity potential was assessed.All varieties displayed delayed flowering following cross-latitude introduction,with the vegetative growth phase of some varieties even exceeding their entire growth duration at their origin.Rapid dry matter accumulation rates indicated growth adaptation performance and formed the basis for soybean forage yield.Varieties from the tropical South China region exhibited significant yield advantages,with dry matter yields of 8.97-14.68 t ha^(-1)and crude protein yields of 1.44-2.51 t ha^(-1).Varieties HX3 and GX7 from this region demonstrated optimal growth adaptability and productivity in the cross-latitude environment,achieving the highest dry matter yields of 14.68 and 13.86 t ha^(-1),respectively.As a result,HX3 and GX7 are recommended for local farming systems to provide high-quality forage.The cross-latitude introduction of soybean is proposed as a viable and efficient strategy for forage improvement and application.展开更多
Two widespread bird species in Sri Lanka’s dry zone,Pycnonotus cafer(Red-vented Bulbul,RVBB)and Pycnonotus luteolus(White-browed Bulbul,WBBB),were studied to understand their foraging dynamics and ecology.The researc...Two widespread bird species in Sri Lanka’s dry zone,Pycnonotus cafer(Red-vented Bulbul,RVBB)and Pycnonotus luteolus(White-browed Bulbul,WBBB),were studied to understand their foraging dynamics and ecology.The research was conducted from October 2022 to February 2023 in Mihintale Sanctuary(80.30′11.24″E,8.21′04.63″N)and the Faculty of Applied Sciences,Rajarata University of Sri Lanka(80.502206″E,8.353090″N).Data were obtained through focal sampling,opportunistic observations,and mist netting.Both species predominantly foraged on twigs,using gleaning as the dominant food-handling technique.RVBB foraged mostly at the canopy level,while WBBB foraged primarily at the sub-canopy level.Fruits constituted the major food type for both species.RVBB and WBBB utilized 10 and 7 plant species,respectively,with Grewia helicterifolia being the primary foraging plant.Minimal foraging was observed on Croton sp.(RVBB)and Hugonia mistax(WBBB).The correlation between nutritional components and the consumption of both species revealed a preference for foods with lower protein,higher fat,and ash content.There was no linear correlation between gape width and fruit size(r=-0.21,P=0.69)for both species.The standardized dietary niche breadth indicated both species are specialists,with a high pairwise dietary niche overlap(0.9854).These findings highlight the niche-specific foraging adaptations of RVBB and WBBB within Mihintale,emphasizing their distinct strategies in utilizing plant species,fruit sizes,and foraging heights.Understanding such ecological dynamics is essential for habitat conservation efforts and ensuring the availability of key foraging resources for these species in the dry zone.展开更多
Food abundance and availability constitute fundamental determinants of foraging habitat quality for waterbirds, with high-quality foraging habitats playing a crucial role in supporting the survival and annual life cyc...Food abundance and availability constitute fundamental determinants of foraging habitat quality for waterbirds, with high-quality foraging habitats playing a crucial role in supporting the survival and annual life cycle of wintering populations. The ongoing degradation and loss of optimal habitats have forced wintering waterbirds to increasingly rely on alternative foraging sites and modify their behavioral adaptation strategies to cope with food scarcity. The Siberian Crane (Leucogeranus leucogeranus), a large-bodied endangered waterbird species characterized by specialized dietary preferences, demonstrates particular sensitivity to environmental alterations. Faced with diminishing suitable habitats and declining natural food resources, this species has progressively adapted to utilizing artificial habitats, including agricultural landscapes such as paddy fields and lotus ponds, as supplementary wintering foraging grounds to fulfill their energetic requirements. This study examines the hypothesis that Siberian Cranes adapt their foraging behavior through plastic behavioral strategies in artificial habitats under conditions of limited food availability, thereby enhancing population fitness. A comparative analysis of crane foraging behaviors was conducted between mudflats and lotus ponds throughout the 2023–2024 wintering period. This investigation focused on three critical environmental factors: food abundance, food burial depth, and sediment penetrability, examining their influence on foraging patterns across these distinct habitats. The results revealed significant inter-habitat differences: foraging success rates were substantially higher (p < 0.05) and food handling times markedly longer in lotus ponds compared to mudflats, whereas foraging effort and attempt frequency were significantly elevated in mudflat habitats. The superior food availability in lotus ponds facilitated enhanced foraging success rates, enabling cranes to accumulate essential energy reserves for winter survival. However, the deeper burial depth of lotus roots in these habitats required more intensive processing behaviors, including prolonged digging, breaking, and swallowing activities, which consequently increased handling time by approximately 40% and reduced foraging attempts by 25–30% compared to mudflat conditions. These behavioral trade-offs suggest that while lotus ponds provide adequate food resources, their structural characteristics may impose physiological constraints that limit their effectiveness as optimal foraging grounds for Siberian Cranes. These findings offer valuable insights into the behavioral plasticity of wintering Siberian Cranes response to spatial variations in food resource distribution, while contributing to our understanding of the ecological value of lotus roots as alternative winter food sources in artificial wetland ecosystems.展开更多
Understanding the fundamental drivers of large-scale species co-occurrence is a critical issue in ecology and conservation research. Here, we assessed foraging guilds, habitat type and disturbances as drivers of bird ...Understanding the fundamental drivers of large-scale species co-occurrence is a critical issue in ecology and conservation research. Here, we assessed foraging guilds, habitat type and disturbances as drivers of bird species co-occurrence in Ghana's Central Region over six months. Birds were sampled in 120 points across six different habitat types (farmland, forest reserve, urban area, coastal savannah, wetland, and mangrove), using the point-centred count technique. In total, 4060 individuals belonging to 216 species were recorded across all six habitat types. We found that co-occurring species were more similar in their foraging behaviour and habitat association. About 60% of the birds were found to co-occur randomly, 15% co-occurred negatively, and 25% co-occurred positively. Carnivores like the Black Heron (Egretta ardesiaca) and Spur-winged Lapwing (Vanellus spinosus) randomly co-occurred with other guild groups and were dominant in the mangroves and wetlands. Frugivores from forest reserves had only a 25% chance of randomly co-occurring with other birds and about a 60% chance of positively co-occurring with other birds. Our findings suggest that foraging guilds and habitat type are major factors driving bird co-occurrence and community assemblages in this West African suburban region.展开更多
Little Terns Sternula albifrons are estuarine birds extensively using increasingly urbanized coastal areas.Given the increased exposure of these ecosystems to anthropogenic activities,it is crucial to study the ecolog...Little Terns Sternula albifrons are estuarine birds extensively using increasingly urbanized coastal areas.Given the increased exposure of these ecosystems to anthropogenic activities,it is crucial to study the ecology of this species and interactions with human stressors to establish management measures.We collected regurgitates(n=182)and blood samples(n=48)to study Little Terns’diet,health condition and isotopic niche,and individually tracked breeding adults(n=9,during 2021 and 2022)at 2 sandy beaches 21 km apart and located within Ria Formosa Natural Park,Algarve,Portugal.Although both areas are adjacent to foraging coastal marine areas and an estuarine lagoon system with saltpans,they differ in human disturbance.We also compared breeding success and adult health measures between these 2 colonies.The main prey for both populations were Sand Smelts Atherina spp.and Gobies Pomatoschistus spp.,and no differences in δ^(13)C and δ^(15)N stable isotopic values between colonies were found.Tracking data revealed that individuals foraged in the surroundings of their breeding colonies.Entrance Channels and Ocean were the most frequently used habitats for foraging by individuals from the less disturbed colony.Adults from the more disturbed colony foraged mostly in Entrance Channels.Overall,all individuals tended to forage during daytime.There were no differences in health measures of individuals between colonies,though breeding success at the most disturbed colony was comparably lower.It is important to protect both breeding areas and adjacent foraging habitats for Little Terns,particularly given the expected increasing pressure from human activities on coastal areas worldwide.展开更多
Natural grazing land plays a crucial role in extensive ruminant livestock systems,especially in semi-arid tropical regions such as East Nusa Tenggara(ENT),Indonesia.The availability and quality of forage during the dr...Natural grazing land plays a crucial role in extensive ruminant livestock systems,especially in semi-arid tropical regions such as East Nusa Tenggara(ENT),Indonesia.The availability and quality of forage during the dry season present significant challenges.This study aimed to identify variations in grass species composition and fluctuations in forage nutritional content in natural grazing lands of ENT during the dry season(July–October 2024).Sampling was conducted in four sub-districts:two representing lowland zones and two representing highland zones.In each sub-district,four grazing fields were selected,and ten plots were sampled per grazing field,totaling 160 sampling plots.Species identification and nutrient analysis included crude protein,crude fiber,energy content,and proteinenergy ratio.Statistical analyses using ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparison test were performed to evaluate significant differences in nutritional parameters across months and zones.Dominant species identified were Themeda arguens,Heteropogon contortus,Brachiaria decumbens,Ischaemum timorense,Cynodon dactylon,and Pennisetum clandestinum.Results showed significant monthly fluctuations in crude protein and fiber contents(p<0.05),with protein levels decreasing from July(9.31±2.66%)to October(7.53±3.10%).Energy content and protein-energy ratio also varied significantly across the dry season.A monthly shift in dominant grass species composition was observed,influenced by environmental conditions and species adaptability.The protein-energy ratio of forage remained below optimal levels throughout the dry season,potentially limiting livestock productivity.These findings provide important scientific insights for developing climate-resilient feeding strategies and support policy formulation for sustainable tropical livestock farming in semi-arid regions.展开更多
Next-generation 6G networks seek to provide ultra-reliable and low-latency communications,necessitating network designs that are intelligent and adaptable.Network slicing has developed as an effective option for resou...Next-generation 6G networks seek to provide ultra-reliable and low-latency communications,necessitating network designs that are intelligent and adaptable.Network slicing has developed as an effective option for resource separation and service-level differentiation inside virtualized infrastructures.Nonetheless,sustaining elevated Quality of Service(QoS)in dynamic,resource-limited systems poses significant hurdles.This study introduces an innovative packet-based proactive end-to-end(ETE)resource management system that facilitates network slicing with improved resilience and proactivity.To get around the drawbacks of conventional reactive systems,we develop a cost-efficient slice provisioning architecture that takes into account limits on radio,processing,and transmission resources.The optimization issue is non-convex,NP-hard,and requires online resolution in a dynamic setting.We offer a hybrid solution that integrates an advanced Deep Reinforcement Learning(DRL)methodology with an Improved Manta-Ray Foraging Optimization(ImpMRFO)algorithm.The ImpMRFO utilizes Chebyshev chaotic mapping for the formation of a varied starting population and incorporates Lévy flight-based stochastic movement to avert premature convergence,hence facilitating improved exploration-exploitation trade-offs.The DRL model perpetually acquires optimum provisioning strategies via agent-environment interactions,whereas the ImpMRFO enhances policy performance for effective slice provisioning.The solution,developed in Python,is evaluated across several 6G slicing scenarios that include varied QoS profiles and traffic requirements.The DRL model perpetually acquires optimum provisioning methods via agent-environment interactions,while the ImpMRFO enhances policy performance for effective slice provisioning.The solution,developed in Python,is evaluated across several 6G slicing scenarios that include varied QoS profiles and traffic requirements.Experimental findings reveal that the proactive ETE system outperforms DRL models and non-resilient provisioning techniques.Our technique increases PSSRr,decreases average latency,and optimizes resource use.These results demonstrate that the hybrid architecture for robust,real-time,and scalable slice management in future 6G networks is feasible.展开更多
Abundant food supply is crucial for the survival of long-distance migratory birds.The continued population decline of the Spoon-billed Sandpiper(Calidris pygmeae),a critically endangered shorebird,is primarily attribu...Abundant food supply is crucial for the survival of long-distance migratory birds.The continued population decline of the Spoon-billed Sandpiper(Calidris pygmeae),a critically endangered shorebird,is primarily attributed to habitat loss and degradation.However,significant gaps remain in research on their diet and foraging habitat selection,limiting effective conservation and restoration efforts.In this study,we investigated the composition of macrobenthic communities,analyzing habitat and prey selection at the main foraging area of SBS in Tiaozini,Jiangsu Province of eastern China—their most critical staging site during southward migration.Our findings revealed 25 species of macrobenthos in foraging areas,with mobile epibenthos comprising the largest group by biomass,accounting for 73%,and having higher density and biomass nearshore.Observations of foraging Spoon-billed Sandpiper individuals indicated that shallow water habitats were their preferred foraging environments,where mobile epibenthos,which thrive in these habitats after the tide recedes,made up 81%of their biomass intake.We propose that shallow water habitats in intertidal mudflats serve as essential refuges for mobile epibenthos after tidal retreat,thereby providing Spoon-billed Sandpipers with access to high-quality food resources.Habitat protection efforts should prioritize habitats harboring extensive microhabitats with shallow water,especially the nearshore area,and further research is needed to explore the mechanisms underlying the formation of these microhabitats,with the ultimate goal of restoring more high-quality habitats for the Spoonbilled Sandpiper.展开更多
The authors regret that the scientific names of some species mentioned in the paper were incorrectly presented.The incorrect sci-entific names,their locations in the paper,correct spellings and refer-ences,are listed ...The authors regret that the scientific names of some species mentioned in the paper were incorrectly presented.The incorrect sci-entific names,their locations in the paper,correct spellings and refer-ences,are listed below.展开更多
Mammal distribution is shaped by different ecological and anthropogenic factors,and the pattern varies depending on their sensitivity thresholds,food and habitat preferences,ecological roles,and physical traits.The pr...Mammal distribution is shaped by different ecological and anthropogenic factors,and the pattern varies depending on their sensitivity thresholds,food and habitat preferences,ecological roles,and physical traits.The present study investigated the influence of ecological and anthropogenic factors on the distribution of mammal species communities across different trophic levels and body sizes in Myanmar's Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary(HWS).The values of mammal characteristics,ecological,and anthropogenic factors were analyzed in ArcMap software.Most of the large and small sized mammals,whose distribution decreases with elevation,were observed near the main streams.Across mammal tropic levels,the omnivores and herbivores were mostly observed farther from gold mining sites.In terms of forage plant effect on mammal community,floral forage plants and the presence of climber negatively affected mammal species across different trophic levels.Moreover,presence of resin trees also has a substantial impact on the distribution of medium-large animals and omnivorous mammals as trophic niche factors.Overall,our findings highlight the crucial role that ecological and anthropogenic factors play in shaping mammal distribution in the HWS.This underscores the importance of simultaneously conserving both habitat and mammal diversity in HWS,especially in the face of a changing climate and environment.展开更多
The “Greater Food” approach has replaced the older “taking grain production as a top priority” approach. Theimportance of feed and forage as the material basis for guaranteeing high-quality development of the live...The “Greater Food” approach has replaced the older “taking grain production as a top priority” approach. Theimportance of feed and forage as the material basis for guaranteeing high-quality development of the livestock industry has gradually become prominent. However, owing to the tradition of “both human staple food and animal feed relying on grain production” in China and the decoupling of feed crop planting and livestock farming, the risk of feed grain security has increased, especially as it relates to the supply of high-quality protein feed ingredients from abroad, which is facing a bottleneck. To ensure food security, effective domestic agricultural production should be adopted. Nevertheless, guaranteeing the supply of high-quality protein feed through domestic soybean production is difficult because of limited arable land;furthermore, pressure on the staple food supply is still extreme. In this article, the historical and realistic implications for the security risks of feed grain in China are analyzed. Proposals are made to separate staple food grains for humans from the feed grain supply for animals and to develop high-quality forage to reduce feed grain use. High-quality forage can be supplied via intercropping with grain crops in arable land and reseeding perennial legumes or grasses into natural grasslands. However, “managing forage for grain” needs to be supported via technical paths and policies as the forage industry develops to effectively increase the capacity to ensure feed grain security.展开更多
[Objective] The experiment aimed to provide technical guidance for cutting propagation of forage maize SAUMZI.[Method]The survival situation of cuttings at different stem parts and with different internodes numbers an...[Objective] The experiment aimed to provide technical guidance for cutting propagation of forage maize SAUMZI.[Method]The survival situation of cuttings at different stem parts and with different internodes numbers and nutrient basis of cutting growth were studied in this experiment.[Result]The survival of young cutting was high while the rooting rate,germination rate and soluble sugar content of lower part of old stem and young cutting were all high.The rooting rate and survival rate with two nodes were higher than those with one node.The total nitrogen content in young stem and in all stems of two-year-old strain were relatively high while soluble sugar content was positively correlated to germination rate,however,total nitrogen content did not show obvious correlation with rooting rate and germination rate.[Conclusion]The young cutting possessed the highest survival rate and germination rate.展开更多
For the purpose of contributing to the establishment of optimized eco-productive paradigm, a new layout of land use of the Loess Plateau was carried out and the associated forage potential was estimated. Results indic...For the purpose of contributing to the establishment of optimized eco-productive paradigm, a new layout of land use of the Loess Plateau was carried out and the associated forage potential was estimated. Results indicated that the percentages of the area of grassland, woodland, basic farmland and orchard to the total productive land area were 44%, 22%, 20% and 14% respectively according to this new land use scenario. Based on the datasets of 197 counties in the Loess Plateau, the estimated forage potential would amount to 104 881 028 ton/a (hay), which can raise 104 881 028 productivity sheep unit/ a. According to the unchanged price in 1999, pastoral gross product value would amount to 52 440.51 million yuan RMB/a, which is as much as 5.3 times of that in 1999 and exceeds the agricultural gross product in 1999 by 14%. In addition, there are ca. 59% of counties whose mean pastoral product value per person would be more than 1 000 yuan RMB/a, while ca. 41% of counties whose mean pastoral product value per person would be less than 1 000 yuan RMB/a. On the other hand, the estimated agricultural gross product on the Loess Plateau would amount to 11 472 2.34 million yuan RMB/a and ca. 46% of the total would come from pastoral industry, 27% from orchid industry, 14% from forestry and 13% from farmland. From the perspective both ecologically and economically, this paper holds that the herbi-vore-based pastoral industry is a promising industry bolstering the ecological improvement and economical development on the Loess Plateau.展开更多
In a greenhouse experiment plasticity of clonal growth and clonal morphology of the stoloniferous rosette herb Halerpestes nahenica Ovcz. in response to differing levels of light intensity and nutrient availability wa...In a greenhouse experiment plasticity of clonal growth and clonal morphology of the stoloniferous rosette herb Halerpestes nahenica Ovcz. in response to differing levels of light intensity and nutrient availability was studied. Total plant dry weight, leaf area of primary ramets, total number of ramets and of stolons, and total stolon length were significantly reduced, while specific internode length and specific petiole length significantly increased under deep shading (6.25% of high light intensity, 5.3% of full daylight) or under low nutrient availability. Under low nutrient availability, mean stolon internode length of H. ruthenica was significantly larger while branching intensity and number of ramets smaller than those under high nutrient availability. These responses are consistent with the foraging model of clonal plants, indicating that H. nahenica is able to forage nutrients through the plastic responses of clonal growth and clonal. morphology when it grows in heterogeneous environments. However, under deep shading, both mean stolon internode length and mean petiole length were significantly reduced, which disagrees with the findings of many other stoloniferous herbs in response to low or medium levels of shading (ca. 13%-75% of high light intensity, >10% of full daylight), suggesting that under deep shading stoloniferous herbs may not forage light through the plastic responses of spacer length. Many traits such as total plant dry weight, total number and length of stolons, total length of secondary and tertiary stolons. total number of ramets, leaf area of primary ramets and branching intensity were markedly influenced by the interaction effect of light intensity and nutrient availability. Under high light intensity nutrient availability affected these traits more pronouncedly, however under low light intensity nutrient availability either did not affect or affected less markedly on these traits, indicating that fight intensity had significant effect on nutrient foraging in H. nahenica. Under deep shading or low nutrient availability, H. ruthenica may increase its mean stolon internode length by means of thinning stolon internodes (i.e., an increase in specific internode length), which provides it with more chance to escape from resource-poor sites.展开更多
[Objective] The aim was to conduct preliminary investigation and diversity analysis of lactic acid bacteria resources in forage from Turpan of Xinjiang. [Method] The lactic acid bacteria in the three kinds of forage i...[Objective] The aim was to conduct preliminary investigation and diversity analysis of lactic acid bacteria resources in forage from Turpan of Xinjiang. [Method] The lactic acid bacteria in the three kinds of forage ingredients in Xinjiang were isolated by using plate separation method and screened by MRS＋CaCO3 solid medium. Morphological, physiological and biochemical identification and 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis were carried out to the isolated eighty strains of lactic acid bacteria, to explore its taxonomic status. [Result] Twenty strains of lactic acid bacteria were obtained from alfalfa, forty-one from wheat, and nineteen from corn. The physiological and biochemical identification and 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis results showed that the eighty strains of lactic acid bacteria belonged to two genera, namely, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus; 7 species, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Entercoccus faecium, Entercoccus durans, Lactobacillus plantarum, Entercoccus hirae. Lactobacillus casei and Entercoccus faecium were ubiquitous in the three kinds of forage ingredients. Besides these two lactic acid bacteria, there were Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum in wheat, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paracasei, Entercoccus hirae, Entercoccus durans in alfalfa, Lactobacillus plantarum, Entercoccus durans in corn. [Conclusion] There is a big diversity of lactic acid bacteria in different forage from Turpan of Xinjiang, in which Lactobacillus casei, Entercoccus faecium are the key bacteria for forage fermentation.展开更多
文摘It is widely accepted that the Marginal Value Theorem (MVT) describes optimal foraging strategies of animals and the mechanism proposed by the MVT has been supported by a number of field observations. However, findings of many researchers indicate that in natural conditions foragers do not always behave according to the MVT. To address this inconsistency, in a series of computer simulation experiments, we examined the behaviour of four types of foragers having specific foraging efficiencies and using the MVT strategies in 15 different landscapes in an ideal environment (no intra-and inter-specific interactions). We used data on elk (Cervus elaphus) to construct our virtual forager. Contrary to the widely accepted understanding of the MVT (residence time in a patch should be longer in environments where travel time between patches is longer) we found that in environments with the same average patch quality and varying average travel times between patches, patch residence times of some foragers are not affected by travel times. Based on our analysis we propose a mechanism responsible for this observation and formulate the perfect forager theorem (PFT). We also introduce the concepts of a foraging coefficient (F) and foragers’ hub (α), and propose a model to describe the relationship between the perfect forager and all other forager types.
文摘Lesser kestrels Falco naumanni are migratory central-place foragers that breed in dynamic arable landscapes. After arriving from migration, kestrels have no knowledge of the distribution of crops, and consequently prey, around their colony. The energy demand of pairs increases as breeding season progresses, but at the same time prey abundance, and their knowledge on prey distribution, also increases. Wind can have a strong influence on flight cost and kestrels should try to reduce energy expendi- ture when possible. When prey abundance is low, kestrels have little knowledge of prey distribution, and pairs have no chicks, they could reduce foraging flight cost by leaving the colony with tailwinds. When prey is abundant, knowledge on prey distribu- tion has increased, and chick demand is high, kestrels should fly to the most favorable foraging patches. We analyzed foraging trips directions in a lesser kestrel colony along the breeding season and in relation to wind speed and direction. We recorded 664 foraging trips from 19 individuals using GPS-dataloggers. We found that outward flights direction changed from uniform to a concentrated distribution along the season, as prey abundance and individual experience increased. We also found a temporal trend in the angular difference between outward flights and wind directions, with low values early in the season and then increa- sing as expected, but again low values at the end, contrary to expectation. Results suggest changes in kestrels foraging strategy along the season in relation to wind. Kestrels depart more with tailwinds in exploratory flights early in the season, while there is a spurious coincidence in direction to preferred foraging patches and dominant wind direction at the end [Current Zoology 60 （5）： 604-615, 2014].
基金This study is part of the Long-Term Ecological Research Program“Sistema Estuarino de Laguna e Adjacencias”(SELA-PELD)funded by the Conselho Nacional de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento Tecnologico(CNPq 445301/2020-1)support from the PROBRAL Research Program(23038.002643/2018-01)funded jointly by Coordenacao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior(CAPES)and Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst+6 种基金from the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft,Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour,Germany's Excellence Strategy(EXC 2117-422037984)support from CNPq(53797/2016-9),CAPES(88881.170254/2018-01).Department for the Ecology of Animal Societies at the Max Planck Institute of Animal BehaviourNational Geographic Society(WW210R-17 and NGS-101549R-23)the Marine Mammal Research Program Fund at Oregon State University.E.G.D.-J.received research funding from CNPq(308913/2022-0),CAPES(88887.374128/2019-00)Fundagao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Santa Catarina(2021TR387 and 2021TR000581)funding from the European Research Council European Union's Horizon 2020(850859)the Swiss National Science Foundation Eccellenza Professorship(PCEFP3_187058).
文摘Social foraging is a collective solution to the challenge of catching prey.A remarkable example involving different predator species with complementary hunting skills is Lahille's bottlenose dolphins,Tursiops truncatus gephyreus foraging with net-casting human fishers to catch migratory mullet,Mugil liza.It remains unknown,however,to what extent dolphins coordinate their own actions when foraging with humans,and how intraspecific coordination impacts interspecific foraging success.Using drone-based tracking,we quantified dolphin group surfacing behaviors(diving synchrony,proximity,and heading angles between individuals)and tested the repeatability of these behavioral metrics across independent human-dolphin cooperative foraging interactions.We then quantified how the variance and consistency in these behaviors influenced the likelihood of fishers catching mullet.We found repeatable patterns in dolphin group proximity and heading angles across cooperative foraging interactions with fishers,and that fishers were more successful at catching mullet when dolphins approached them along different trajectories with consistent diving synchrony.These findings suggest that groups of dolphins can be,to some extent,coordinated when fishing with humans,thereby influencing the collective outcome of this cooperative foraging tactic.We consider hypotheses for the underlying mechanisms of synchrony and coordination within groups of dolphins and highlight solutions for overcoming the inherent challenges associated with quantifying collective foraging dynamics in natural settings.
文摘Artifcial light at night(ALAN)is a common anthropogenic disturbance,which alters animal behavior.However,little is known about the impact of the spectral composition of ALAN and co-occurring predation risk on the behavior of aquatic organisms.We experimentally investigated how ALAN of different spectra(cool white LED and HPS light)affects the behavior and foraging of Gammarus jazdzewskii(Amphipoda)on chironomid prey,both as a single stressor and in combination with an olfactory predation cue.Gammarids exposed to ALAN in the absence of predation cues consumed less,compared with darkness,mainly due to their lower activity.Moreover,gammarids showed a stronger response to LED light,spending more time in the shelter and increasing prey handling time in this treatment.The addition of predation cues did not enhance the negative impact of ALAN on the foraging success.Gammarids maintained similar consumption levels as in the ALAN treatment without predation cues and in darkness with predation cues.However,gammarids in LED light altered their behavior in response to predation threat:they decreased prey handling time and consumed prey faster,which may have compensated for the higher food demand in stressful conditions.They also tended to exhibit risky behavior,leaving the shelter and moving towards the lit area,presumably to escape and avoid the combined effects of light and predation cues.Therefore,when assessing the effects of ALAN on organisms,light quality and co-occurring biotic factors should be considered,as predator pressure is common in natural environments.
基金funded by the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFD1300803)the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA(CARS-34)。
文摘Grain soybean(Glycine max(L.)Merr.)shows potential as a forage crop following its introduction from low to high latitudes due to in its growth phenotype.However,the application of this approach is impeded by the diverse ecological types of soybean,their adaptability to the introduction,and the uncertainty surrounding the growth phenotype post-introduction.This study introduced 24 grain soybean varieties from low-latitude regions(22-31°N)to the high-latitude northwestern Loess Plateau(39°N)between 2018 and 2019.The growth phenotypes were observed,and their forage productivity potential was assessed.All varieties displayed delayed flowering following cross-latitude introduction,with the vegetative growth phase of some varieties even exceeding their entire growth duration at their origin.Rapid dry matter accumulation rates indicated growth adaptation performance and formed the basis for soybean forage yield.Varieties from the tropical South China region exhibited significant yield advantages,with dry matter yields of 8.97-14.68 t ha^(-1)and crude protein yields of 1.44-2.51 t ha^(-1).Varieties HX3 and GX7 from this region demonstrated optimal growth adaptability and productivity in the cross-latitude environment,achieving the highest dry matter yields of 14.68 and 13.86 t ha^(-1),respectively.As a result,HX3 and GX7 are recommended for local farming systems to provide high-quality forage.The cross-latitude introduction of soybean is proposed as a viable and efficient strategy for forage improvement and application.
文摘Two widespread bird species in Sri Lanka’s dry zone,Pycnonotus cafer(Red-vented Bulbul,RVBB)and Pycnonotus luteolus(White-browed Bulbul,WBBB),were studied to understand their foraging dynamics and ecology.The research was conducted from October 2022 to February 2023 in Mihintale Sanctuary(80.30′11.24″E,8.21′04.63″N)and the Faculty of Applied Sciences,Rajarata University of Sri Lanka(80.502206″E,8.353090″N).Data were obtained through focal sampling,opportunistic observations,and mist netting.Both species predominantly foraged on twigs,using gleaning as the dominant food-handling technique.RVBB foraged mostly at the canopy level,while WBBB foraged primarily at the sub-canopy level.Fruits constituted the major food type for both species.RVBB and WBBB utilized 10 and 7 plant species,respectively,with Grewia helicterifolia being the primary foraging plant.Minimal foraging was observed on Croton sp.(RVBB)and Hugonia mistax(WBBB).The correlation between nutritional components and the consumption of both species revealed a preference for foods with lower protein,higher fat,and ash content.There was no linear correlation between gape width and fruit size(r=-0.21,P=0.69)for both species.The standardized dietary niche breadth indicated both species are specialists,with a high pairwise dietary niche overlap(0.9854).These findings highlight the niche-specific foraging adaptations of RVBB and WBBB within Mihintale,emphasizing their distinct strategies in utilizing plant species,fruit sizes,and foraging heights.Understanding such ecological dynamics is essential for habitat conservation efforts and ensuring the availability of key foraging resources for these species in the dry zone.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32470553).
文摘Food abundance and availability constitute fundamental determinants of foraging habitat quality for waterbirds, with high-quality foraging habitats playing a crucial role in supporting the survival and annual life cycle of wintering populations. The ongoing degradation and loss of optimal habitats have forced wintering waterbirds to increasingly rely on alternative foraging sites and modify their behavioral adaptation strategies to cope with food scarcity. The Siberian Crane (Leucogeranus leucogeranus), a large-bodied endangered waterbird species characterized by specialized dietary preferences, demonstrates particular sensitivity to environmental alterations. Faced with diminishing suitable habitats and declining natural food resources, this species has progressively adapted to utilizing artificial habitats, including agricultural landscapes such as paddy fields and lotus ponds, as supplementary wintering foraging grounds to fulfill their energetic requirements. This study examines the hypothesis that Siberian Cranes adapt their foraging behavior through plastic behavioral strategies in artificial habitats under conditions of limited food availability, thereby enhancing population fitness. A comparative analysis of crane foraging behaviors was conducted between mudflats and lotus ponds throughout the 2023–2024 wintering period. This investigation focused on three critical environmental factors: food abundance, food burial depth, and sediment penetrability, examining their influence on foraging patterns across these distinct habitats. The results revealed significant inter-habitat differences: foraging success rates were substantially higher (p < 0.05) and food handling times markedly longer in lotus ponds compared to mudflats, whereas foraging effort and attempt frequency were significantly elevated in mudflat habitats. The superior food availability in lotus ponds facilitated enhanced foraging success rates, enabling cranes to accumulate essential energy reserves for winter survival. However, the deeper burial depth of lotus roots in these habitats required more intensive processing behaviors, including prolonged digging, breaking, and swallowing activities, which consequently increased handling time by approximately 40% and reduced foraging attempts by 25–30% compared to mudflat conditions. These behavioral trade-offs suggest that while lotus ponds provide adequate food resources, their structural characteristics may impose physiological constraints that limit their effectiveness as optimal foraging grounds for Siberian Cranes. These findings offer valuable insights into the behavioral plasticity of wintering Siberian Cranes response to spatial variations in food resource distribution, while contributing to our understanding of the ecological value of lotus roots as alternative winter food sources in artificial wetland ecosystems.
文摘Understanding the fundamental drivers of large-scale species co-occurrence is a critical issue in ecology and conservation research. Here, we assessed foraging guilds, habitat type and disturbances as drivers of bird species co-occurrence in Ghana's Central Region over six months. Birds were sampled in 120 points across six different habitat types (farmland, forest reserve, urban area, coastal savannah, wetland, and mangrove), using the point-centred count technique. In total, 4060 individuals belonging to 216 species were recorded across all six habitat types. We found that co-occurring species were more similar in their foraging behaviour and habitat association. About 60% of the birds were found to co-occur randomly, 15% co-occurred negatively, and 25% co-occurred positively. Carnivores like the Black Heron (Egretta ardesiaca) and Spur-winged Lapwing (Vanellus spinosus) randomly co-occurred with other guild groups and were dominant in the mangroves and wetlands. Frugivores from forest reserves had only a 25% chance of randomly co-occurring with other birds and about a 60% chance of positively co-occurring with other birds. Our findings suggest that foraging guilds and habitat type are major factors driving bird co-occurrence and community assemblages in this West African suburban region.
基金financial and logistic support for fieldwork campaigns,GPS tracking devices and laboratory analysis from the project LIFE Ilhas Barreira project(LIFE18 NAT/PT/000927)funding provided by Foundation for Science and Technology,I.P.(FCT)to MARE(UIDB/MAR/04292/2020,https://doi.org/10.54499/UIDB/04292/2020 and UIDP/04292/2020,https://doi.org/10.54499/UIDP/04292/2020)+1 种基金the Associate Laboratory ARNET(LA/P/0069/2020,https://doi.org/10.54499/LA/P/0069/2020)supported by FCT doctoral fellowships(10.54499/2020.07495.BD,SFRH/BD/145827/2019)。
文摘Little Terns Sternula albifrons are estuarine birds extensively using increasingly urbanized coastal areas.Given the increased exposure of these ecosystems to anthropogenic activities,it is crucial to study the ecology of this species and interactions with human stressors to establish management measures.We collected regurgitates(n=182)and blood samples(n=48)to study Little Terns’diet,health condition and isotopic niche,and individually tracked breeding adults(n=9,during 2021 and 2022)at 2 sandy beaches 21 km apart and located within Ria Formosa Natural Park,Algarve,Portugal.Although both areas are adjacent to foraging coastal marine areas and an estuarine lagoon system with saltpans,they differ in human disturbance.We also compared breeding success and adult health measures between these 2 colonies.The main prey for both populations were Sand Smelts Atherina spp.and Gobies Pomatoschistus spp.,and no differences in δ^(13)C and δ^(15)N stable isotopic values between colonies were found.Tracking data revealed that individuals foraged in the surroundings of their breeding colonies.Entrance Channels and Ocean were the most frequently used habitats for foraging by individuals from the less disturbed colony.Adults from the more disturbed colony foraged mostly in Entrance Channels.Overall,all individuals tended to forage during daytime.There were no differences in health measures of individuals between colonies,though breeding success at the most disturbed colony was comparably lower.It is important to protect both breeding areas and adjacent foraging habitats for Little Terns,particularly given the expected increasing pressure from human activities on coastal areas worldwide.
基金supported by the Ministry of Education,Culture,Research,and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia through the Directorate of Research,Technology,and Community Service under the Primary Contract Number:073/E5/PG.02.00.PL/2024 and the Secondary Contract Number:432/UN15.22/SP2H/PL/2024.
文摘Natural grazing land plays a crucial role in extensive ruminant livestock systems,especially in semi-arid tropical regions such as East Nusa Tenggara(ENT),Indonesia.The availability and quality of forage during the dry season present significant challenges.This study aimed to identify variations in grass species composition and fluctuations in forage nutritional content in natural grazing lands of ENT during the dry season(July–October 2024).Sampling was conducted in four sub-districts:two representing lowland zones and two representing highland zones.In each sub-district,four grazing fields were selected,and ten plots were sampled per grazing field,totaling 160 sampling plots.Species identification and nutrient analysis included crude protein,crude fiber,energy content,and proteinenergy ratio.Statistical analyses using ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparison test were performed to evaluate significant differences in nutritional parameters across months and zones.Dominant species identified were Themeda arguens,Heteropogon contortus,Brachiaria decumbens,Ischaemum timorense,Cynodon dactylon,and Pennisetum clandestinum.Results showed significant monthly fluctuations in crude protein and fiber contents(p<0.05),with protein levels decreasing from July(9.31±2.66%)to October(7.53±3.10%).Energy content and protein-energy ratio also varied significantly across the dry season.A monthly shift in dominant grass species composition was observed,influenced by environmental conditions and species adaptability.The protein-energy ratio of forage remained below optimal levels throughout the dry season,potentially limiting livestock productivity.These findings provide important scientific insights for developing climate-resilient feeding strategies and support policy formulation for sustainable tropical livestock farming in semi-arid regions.
文摘Next-generation 6G networks seek to provide ultra-reliable and low-latency communications,necessitating network designs that are intelligent and adaptable.Network slicing has developed as an effective option for resource separation and service-level differentiation inside virtualized infrastructures.Nonetheless,sustaining elevated Quality of Service(QoS)in dynamic,resource-limited systems poses significant hurdles.This study introduces an innovative packet-based proactive end-to-end(ETE)resource management system that facilitates network slicing with improved resilience and proactivity.To get around the drawbacks of conventional reactive systems,we develop a cost-efficient slice provisioning architecture that takes into account limits on radio,processing,and transmission resources.The optimization issue is non-convex,NP-hard,and requires online resolution in a dynamic setting.We offer a hybrid solution that integrates an advanced Deep Reinforcement Learning(DRL)methodology with an Improved Manta-Ray Foraging Optimization(ImpMRFO)algorithm.The ImpMRFO utilizes Chebyshev chaotic mapping for the formation of a varied starting population and incorporates Lévy flight-based stochastic movement to avert premature convergence,hence facilitating improved exploration-exploitation trade-offs.The DRL model perpetually acquires optimum provisioning strategies via agent-environment interactions,whereas the ImpMRFO enhances policy performance for effective slice provisioning.The solution,developed in Python,is evaluated across several 6G slicing scenarios that include varied QoS profiles and traffic requirements.The DRL model perpetually acquires optimum provisioning methods via agent-environment interactions,while the ImpMRFO enhances policy performance for effective slice provisioning.The solution,developed in Python,is evaluated across several 6G slicing scenarios that include varied QoS profiles and traffic requirements.Experimental findings reveal that the proactive ETE system outperforms DRL models and non-resilient provisioning techniques.Our technique increases PSSRr,decreases average latency,and optimizes resource use.These results demonstrate that the hybrid architecture for robust,real-time,and scalable slice management in future 6G networks is feasible.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.42361144873)Yellow Sea Wetland Project(No.HHSDKT202312)the“Saving Spoon-billed Sandpiper”project of Shenzhen Mangrove Wetlands Conservation Foundation(MCF)。
文摘Abundant food supply is crucial for the survival of long-distance migratory birds.The continued population decline of the Spoon-billed Sandpiper(Calidris pygmeae),a critically endangered shorebird,is primarily attributed to habitat loss and degradation.However,significant gaps remain in research on their diet and foraging habitat selection,limiting effective conservation and restoration efforts.In this study,we investigated the composition of macrobenthic communities,analyzing habitat and prey selection at the main foraging area of SBS in Tiaozini,Jiangsu Province of eastern China—their most critical staging site during southward migration.Our findings revealed 25 species of macrobenthos in foraging areas,with mobile epibenthos comprising the largest group by biomass,accounting for 73%,and having higher density and biomass nearshore.Observations of foraging Spoon-billed Sandpiper individuals indicated that shallow water habitats were their preferred foraging environments,where mobile epibenthos,which thrive in these habitats after the tide recedes,made up 81%of their biomass intake.We propose that shallow water habitats in intertidal mudflats serve as essential refuges for mobile epibenthos after tidal retreat,thereby providing Spoon-billed Sandpipers with access to high-quality food resources.Habitat protection efforts should prioritize habitats harboring extensive microhabitats with shallow water,especially the nearshore area,and further research is needed to explore the mechanisms underlying the formation of these microhabitats,with the ultimate goal of restoring more high-quality habitats for the Spoonbilled Sandpiper.
文摘The authors regret that the scientific names of some species mentioned in the paper were incorrectly presented.The incorrect sci-entific names,their locations in the paper,correct spellings and refer-ences,are listed below.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)grant funded by the Korea government(MSIT)(No.2021R1A2C201017812)support of‘R&D Program for Forest Science Technology(Project No.2022461B10-2424-0201)’provided by Korea Forest Service(Korea Forestry Promotion Institute)。
文摘Mammal distribution is shaped by different ecological and anthropogenic factors,and the pattern varies depending on their sensitivity thresholds,food and habitat preferences,ecological roles,and physical traits.The present study investigated the influence of ecological and anthropogenic factors on the distribution of mammal species communities across different trophic levels and body sizes in Myanmar's Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary(HWS).The values of mammal characteristics,ecological,and anthropogenic factors were analyzed in ArcMap software.Most of the large and small sized mammals,whose distribution decreases with elevation,were observed near the main streams.Across mammal tropic levels,the omnivores and herbivores were mostly observed farther from gold mining sites.In terms of forage plant effect on mammal community,floral forage plants and the presence of climber negatively affected mammal species across different trophic levels.Moreover,presence of resin trees also has a substantial impact on the distribution of medium-large animals and omnivorous mammals as trophic niche factors.Overall,our findings highlight the crucial role that ecological and anthropogenic factors play in shaping mammal distribution in the HWS.This underscores the importance of simultaneously conserving both habitat and mammal diversity in HWS,especially in the face of a changing climate and environment.
基金funded by the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA (CARS-34)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32201471)+1 种基金the Development and Demonstration Project of Key Technologies for High Quality Development of Forage Industry in Ordos, Chinathe fellowship of China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2023T160697)。
文摘The “Greater Food” approach has replaced the older “taking grain production as a top priority” approach. Theimportance of feed and forage as the material basis for guaranteeing high-quality development of the livestock industry has gradually become prominent. However, owing to the tradition of “both human staple food and animal feed relying on grain production” in China and the decoupling of feed crop planting and livestock farming, the risk of feed grain security has increased, especially as it relates to the supply of high-quality protein feed ingredients from abroad, which is facing a bottleneck. To ensure food security, effective domestic agricultural production should be adopted. Nevertheless, guaranteeing the supply of high-quality protein feed through domestic soybean production is difficult because of limited arable land;furthermore, pressure on the staple food supply is still extreme. In this article, the historical and realistic implications for the security risks of feed grain in China are analyzed. Proposals are made to separate staple food grains for humans from the feed grain supply for animals and to develop high-quality forage to reduce feed grain use. High-quality forage can be supplied via intercropping with grain crops in arable land and reseeding perennial legumes or grasses into natural grasslands. However, “managing forage for grain” needs to be supported via technical paths and policies as the forage industry develops to effectively increase the capacity to ensure feed grain security.
文摘[Objective] The experiment aimed to provide technical guidance for cutting propagation of forage maize SAUMZI.[Method]The survival situation of cuttings at different stem parts and with different internodes numbers and nutrient basis of cutting growth were studied in this experiment.[Result]The survival of young cutting was high while the rooting rate,germination rate and soluble sugar content of lower part of old stem and young cutting were all high.The rooting rate and survival rate with two nodes were higher than those with one node.The total nitrogen content in young stem and in all stems of two-year-old strain were relatively high while soluble sugar content was positively correlated to germination rate,however,total nitrogen content did not show obvious correlation with rooting rate and germination rate.[Conclusion]The young cutting possessed the highest survival rate and germination rate.
文摘For the purpose of contributing to the establishment of optimized eco-productive paradigm, a new layout of land use of the Loess Plateau was carried out and the associated forage potential was estimated. Results indicated that the percentages of the area of grassland, woodland, basic farmland and orchard to the total productive land area were 44%, 22%, 20% and 14% respectively according to this new land use scenario. Based on the datasets of 197 counties in the Loess Plateau, the estimated forage potential would amount to 104 881 028 ton/a (hay), which can raise 104 881 028 productivity sheep unit/ a. According to the unchanged price in 1999, pastoral gross product value would amount to 52 440.51 million yuan RMB/a, which is as much as 5.3 times of that in 1999 and exceeds the agricultural gross product in 1999 by 14%. In addition, there are ca. 59% of counties whose mean pastoral product value per person would be more than 1 000 yuan RMB/a, while ca. 41% of counties whose mean pastoral product value per person would be less than 1 000 yuan RMB/a. On the other hand, the estimated agricultural gross product on the Loess Plateau would amount to 11 472 2.34 million yuan RMB/a and ca. 46% of the total would come from pastoral industry, 27% from orchid industry, 14% from forestry and 13% from farmland. From the perspective both ecologically and economically, this paper holds that the herbi-vore-based pastoral industry is a promising industry bolstering the ecological improvement and economical development on the Loess Plateau.
文摘In a greenhouse experiment plasticity of clonal growth and clonal morphology of the stoloniferous rosette herb Halerpestes nahenica Ovcz. in response to differing levels of light intensity and nutrient availability was studied. Total plant dry weight, leaf area of primary ramets, total number of ramets and of stolons, and total stolon length were significantly reduced, while specific internode length and specific petiole length significantly increased under deep shading (6.25% of high light intensity, 5.3% of full daylight) or under low nutrient availability. Under low nutrient availability, mean stolon internode length of H. ruthenica was significantly larger while branching intensity and number of ramets smaller than those under high nutrient availability. These responses are consistent with the foraging model of clonal plants, indicating that H. nahenica is able to forage nutrients through the plastic responses of clonal growth and clonal. morphology when it grows in heterogeneous environments. However, under deep shading, both mean stolon internode length and mean petiole length were significantly reduced, which disagrees with the findings of many other stoloniferous herbs in response to low or medium levels of shading (ca. 13%-75% of high light intensity, >10% of full daylight), suggesting that under deep shading stoloniferous herbs may not forage light through the plastic responses of spacer length. Many traits such as total plant dry weight, total number and length of stolons, total length of secondary and tertiary stolons. total number of ramets, leaf area of primary ramets and branching intensity were markedly influenced by the interaction effect of light intensity and nutrient availability. Under high light intensity nutrient availability affected these traits more pronouncedly, however under low light intensity nutrient availability either did not affect or affected less markedly on these traits, indicating that fight intensity had significant effect on nutrient foraging in H. nahenica. Under deep shading or low nutrient availability, H. ruthenica may increase its mean stolon internode length by means of thinning stolon internodes (i.e., an increase in specific internode length), which provides it with more chance to escape from resource-poor sites.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Xinjiang University(070378)the Open Project Funding by the State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology in Shandong University(M2011-07)~~
文摘[Objective] The aim was to conduct preliminary investigation and diversity analysis of lactic acid bacteria resources in forage from Turpan of Xinjiang. [Method] The lactic acid bacteria in the three kinds of forage ingredients in Xinjiang were isolated by using plate separation method and screened by MRS＋CaCO3 solid medium. Morphological, physiological and biochemical identification and 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis were carried out to the isolated eighty strains of lactic acid bacteria, to explore its taxonomic status. [Result] Twenty strains of lactic acid bacteria were obtained from alfalfa, forty-one from wheat, and nineteen from corn. The physiological and biochemical identification and 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis results showed that the eighty strains of lactic acid bacteria belonged to two genera, namely, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus; 7 species, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Entercoccus faecium, Entercoccus durans, Lactobacillus plantarum, Entercoccus hirae. Lactobacillus casei and Entercoccus faecium were ubiquitous in the three kinds of forage ingredients. Besides these two lactic acid bacteria, there were Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum in wheat, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paracasei, Entercoccus hirae, Entercoccus durans in alfalfa, Lactobacillus plantarum, Entercoccus durans in corn. [Conclusion] There is a big diversity of lactic acid bacteria in different forage from Turpan of Xinjiang, in which Lactobacillus casei, Entercoccus faecium are the key bacteria for forage fermentation.
