Forage advantages of Calliandra calothyrsus in Réunion

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the advantage of a hedge of Calliandra calothyrsus for forage production and nutritive value within various mixed farming systems in the Highlands of Réunion. From an agronomic point of view, Calliandra calothyrsus hedges, with a 0.70 m spacing, phosphopotassic manure and the higher quality ecotype from San Ramon (Costa Rica), are of interest. Calliandra calothyrsus is a good forage for goats if cut before three months of regrowth because of its low tannin content and leaves/stems ratio. Within these diversified systems and, in particular, within the agriculture restructuring of the Western Highlands of Réunion, forage agroforestry certainly has a place. Calliandra calothyrsus hedges offer many advantages such as good water infiltration under the hedges (+ 400 %).