Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Forage with Highest DCP
DCP % is highest for:
- Lucerne hay — Correct Answer
- Berseem hay
- Oat hay
- Wheat hay
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Lucerne hay
Lucerne (Alfalfa) hay (Medicago sativa) is known as the 'Queen of Forages'. Its leaves are exceptionally rich in protein, giving it the highest Digestible Crude Protein (DCP%) among common hays — significantly higher than cereal hays (oat, wheat) and other legume hays (berseem).
Hay Types — Quality Comparison
| Hay Type | Relative DCP | Special Note |
|---|---|---|
| Lucerne hay | Highest | Best legume hay; contains Saponin (bloat risk) |
| Berseem hay | High (legume) | Trifolium alexandrinum |
| Oat hay | Moderate | Best overall crop for hay (Avena sativa); Nitrate poisoning risk |
| Wheat hay | Low | 0% DCP; 3–4% CP; 40% TDN |
Hay Making — Key Facts
- Harvesting time: flowering stage (1/3 to 1/2 blossom)
- Moisture content: 12–14%
- Vitamin D content: very high (sun drying)
- Vitamin A loss: up to 80% (sun drying)
- Process: Hay Curing
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
