Food preservation
Green fodder conservation involves protecting nutrients quantitatively and qualitatively over an extended period by inactivating microbial and feed-specific enzymes to prevent decomposition processes such as autolysis, oxidation, hydrolysis, and microbial breakdown. This includes minimizing the accumulation of undesirable substances or metabolites and allowing only unavoidable or desired disruption of the nutrient structure. Research activities focus on the conservation of various feed substrates into silage (grass and corn silage, silage hay) and hay. In the area of silage, additives (silage aids) are tested for their effectiveness in improving fermentation and ensuring aerobic stability. Furthermore, we investigate aspects of conservation technology, from forage harvesting, ensiling, hay aeration, and storage to feed removal, as well as losses within the process chain.
feed quality
For the utilization of forage plants by various farm animals, their chemical composition and microbiological status (feed hygiene) are crucial to meeting the animals' needs. Precise analysis of feedstuffs using diverse methods is evaluated, as are the effects of environmental and management factors on individual quality parameters. In addition to classical analyses (Weender nutrient analysis, structural components, macro- and trace elements), the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein employs specialized methods for quality determination (in vitro digestibility, protein fractionation according to CNCPS, etc.). Organoleptic feed evaluation methods, such as sensory assessment of forage, are further developed for practical application on farms.
Poisonous plants
In livestock feeding, rations containing toxins from plants pose a risk to animal health. In this area, identifying native and non-native poisonous plants and their occurrence in forage areas is crucial. Equally important is monitoring the propagation and spread of these species (due to climate change, farming practices, etc.) and developing effective mitigation measures.
Poisonous plants are most prevalent in extensively managed grasslands. They occur particularly in sites with fluctuating moisture levels, dampness, or wetness. By far the most dangerous poisonous plant in Austrian grasslands is the autumn crocus. Other notable poisonous plants include meadow buttercup, marsh horsetail, monkshood, and white hellebore, which can be found on alpine pastures. The distinction between toxic and medicinal properties is fluid in poisonous and medicinal plants. Therefore, the term "poisonous" is always relative. If animals can freely select their food, as in a pasture, poisonings are rare because they generally avoid poisonous plants. Poisonings are most likely to occur at the start of grazing, when moving animals to alpine pastures, and during periods of food scarcity. Young animals are generally more vulnerable than older animals. The toxic effect depends primarily on the plant species and the quantity ingested. The animal's weight and overall health are also important factors.
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