Use of Lotus corniculatus containing condensed tannins to increase reproductive efficiency in ewes under commercial dryland farming conditions

It was concluded that under commercial dryland farming conditions, the use of L. corniculatus during the mating season in late summer/autumn can be used to increase reproductive efficiency and wool production, with the largest responses in years with exceptionally dry autumn periods. These effects are probably due to the higher digestibility and ME of L. corniculatus than pasture, and to the CT in L. corniculatus improving both protein digestion and absorption. Effects of forage CT upon the uterine microenvironment at the time of conception, implantation and early foetal growth, need to be investigated in future studies.