Research progress on forage yield and nutritional quality of common vetch and its application in ruminant production

Common vetch (Vicia sativa) is an annual leguminous plant belonging to Vicia. It has excellent characteristics such as high adaptability, high yield, high nutritional value, and good palatability, which improve production performance and reduce methane emission in ruminants. In recent years, common vetch has been widely used in northwest and southwest China. In this study, forage yield and nutritional quality of common vetch and their influencing factors were investigated and the effect of feeding ruminants this forage was evaluated. Common vetch was found to have great potential for planting and application in China. The promotion and utilization of common vetch as high-quality forage is suggested, along with further improvement in utilization value through comprehensive development to provide a reference for promoting the sustainable and healthy development of grassland animal husbandry.