What advantage do legumes offer compared to grass-only pastures?

Legumes provide a significant advantage in terms of biodiversity and forage quality when compared to grass-only pastures. They are capable of fixing nitrogen in the soil through a symbiotic relationship with specific bacteria, which enhances soil fertility. This process contributes to healthier soil and better overall productivity.

In terms of forage quality, legumes typically have higher protein content and digestibility compared to grasses. This makes them a more nutritious feed source for livestock, promoting better growth and overall animal health. The combination of enhanced soil quality and superior forage characteristics fosters a diverse ecosystem in pastures, allowing for the coexistence of various plant species, which can further improve resilience against pests and diseases.

Other choices like drought resistance and soil erosion control are also important, but legumes primarily stand out for their role in improving biodiversity and the nutritional value of the feed available to livestock. Lower palatability does not apply, as legumes tend to be quite palatable and favored by many livestock species.