Understanding the genetic basis for slow plant-mediated proteolysis in Festulolium hybrids

Inefficiencies in the rumen associated with excessive rates of degradation of forage protein have meant that resource capture is poor compared to the potential gains achievable from use of new grass cultivars. Increased rumen efficiency through improved utilisation of feed protein will decrease emissions of environmentally damaging wastes and greenhouse gas emissions. The aim of this project is to generate improved germplasm by exploiting the ability to make interspecific Festulolium hybrids derived from either ryegrass species? Lolium perenne or Lolium multiflorum and Mediterranean fescue, Festuca arundinacea var glaucescens. Under rumen conditions, the fescue protein is degraded at a significantly slower rate than that of ryegrass which should increase efficiency of feed N utilisation and so aid livestock gain whilst also reducing N losses that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, we are testing the effect of Lolium and Festuca genome dosage to optimize the fescue?s ability for protein protection. We will consider the mechanisms involved and whether evolved adaptations in the fescue for survival under heat and drought stress may also contribute towards protecting protein from degradation in the rumen.