It's not only highly adapted fungi that are improving food productivity and the movement of nutrients – plants that have evolved to survive harsh conditions are also proving useful. 

In Kenya, livestock are a key part of the economy, contributing around 12% of the national GDP. In the smallholder mixed crop-livestock system, livestock play a significant role in food and nutritional security, income generation and as a source of manure for soil fertility in crop production.

Dairy farming is especially important in Kenya, and it is one of the leading dairy producers on the continent. However, poor quality feeds and seasonal scarcity limit productivity, with the average yield at about eight litres (1.8 gallons) per cow each day compared with 25-50 litres (5.5-11 gallons) per cow each day elsewhere in the world. Donald Njarui of the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (Kalro) has been researching ways to improve the situation, through the introduction of improved forages.

"Most smallholder dairy farmers in the country have just two to five cows," says Njarui. "So any increase in productivity can have a profound impact on their lives. Over 90% of smallholder dairy farmers rely on Napier grass, which is used in a 'cut-and-carry' feeding system, where the grass is harvested and delivered to the animals. However, Napier has become susceptible to pests and diseases, which reduce biomass yield significantly. There was a need to look for other viable and sustainable options that farmers can depend on for their dairy cattle."

And that search started overseas. A type of grass called Brachiaria has been commercialised in South America, Australia and Asia where it has transformed the beef and dairy industry in those regions. Surprisingly, Brachiaria grass originates from Africa, but it has not been exploited there for livestock feed in the same way – until now.

The impact has been significant. Milk yields rose, the health of the cows improved, crude protein levels are up compared to Napier grass, says Njarui, and it is less fibrous and more digestible, meaning animals feeding on it produce less greenhouse gases. "Due to its massive root system, it also has the ability to sequester more carbon into the soil than local pastures."

 The super-grass's success is simple – it has adapted to drought and low fertility acidic soils by creating a large, extensive root system, so has the ability to draw more nutrients from deep in the soil. 

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