| Abstract:
Artemisia aucheri is an indicator plant of semi-steppic rangelands in Iran, which covers most of this area. This species is important because of its coverage, forage production, soil conservation and medicinal value.
In this study, the quantity of Crude Protein and NDF in forage of A. aucheri is measured in three phenologic stages in Vard- Avard, Karaj at three altitude levels (2000, 2200, 2400m). Then samples were analyzed in laboratory and statistical differences in content of CP and NDF was investigated. The results showed that the amount of CP declined from the early growth to the end of growth season and the difference between growth stages was significant. Also, the average of NDF content increased but there was no significant difference between vegetative and flowering stages. Hence, grazing is recommended at the flowering stage as the quantity and the quality of forage is desirable.
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