RAMOS, João Paulo Farias.; SANTOS, Edson Mauro.; FREITAS, Fabiana Fortuna de.; CANDIDO, Edson Pereira.; LIMA JUNIOR, Agenor Correia de.; LEITE, Mauricio Luiz Vieira.; OLIVEIRA JUNIOR, Salvino de.
Abstract:
Technique characterization of the production systems of cactus forage in Soledade city - PB. This study aims to
characterize the production systems of cactus forage in Soledade city - PB, Curimataú from Paraíba state. A
descriptive research has been performed, using simple probabilistic samples, being applied 41 questionnaires to rural
producers, randomly selected in the city. The results of the interviews have been submitted to distribution of
frequency. The results have indicated that 100% of the interviewed ones are in livestock activity for over 20 years.
The cactus in the productivity units is used in a priority of (75%) in animal feeding as fodder, in areas which are
lower than 10 ha (75,7%). Predominates in the properties (97,5%) the species Opuntia fícus-indica Giant variety.
Planting in consortium with cactus is frequent (52,5%), with organic fertilization (97,6%), through goat and bovine
manure. Spacing 1 m x 1 m e 1 m x 0,5m, are more adopted (53%). The cactus is provided in consortium with bulky
forage of grass and corn silage (66,7%). The first cut of the cactus forage is performed after four years planting
(78,1%). The cactus forage is fully adapted to Soledade’s environmental conditions, being the main forage used to
feed ruminants, required to improve the production and intensify cultivation, adjusts in the production systems which
are practiced in the city, considering the social economic aspects of the producers, the soil fertility, diversification of
the used genotypes, planting density and cultivation.
Key words: animal feeding, cactus, fodder, semi-arid
