Net energy: farm glossary
Net energy is metabolizable energy after the heat increment from using the feed has been deducted. It describes energy available for functions such as maintenance and production under the stated energy system. Net energy can be named for maintenance, growth or lactation. The full name identifies what a feed or requirement value is intended to represent.
Compiled from open-access scientific sources.
A farm example
A feed's net-energy value per kilogram of dry matter is multiplied by the dry matter fed to calculate the daily net energy supplied, which is then compared against the animal's daily requirement for maintenance, growth or lactation.
Everyday use
The energy system and unit keep feed supply and animal requirements on a matching basis. This distinction helps interpret energy figures when preparing a ration from selected feeds.
How HerdMobile helps
Bring your animals, feed stocks and farm accounts together on your Android phone. HerdMobile keeps your daily work moving offline: record events, compare feed quantities and follow sales and payments in one place. Use your own feeds and herd information to prepare a ration, then keep a backup file under your control.
