Amaranthus paniculatus and the prospects for its use in the agro-industrial complex of Transbaikalia

Abstract

There is great interest in an unconventional but very promising crop amaranth in Transbaikalia. In particular, Amaranthus paniculatus is attractive. The current studies carried out both in Russia and abroad confirm high efficiency of growing Amaranthus paniculatus. The scientists developed advanced methods of its growing which allowed for excellent results in both feed production and seed production, as well as in the use of this crop as a medicinal raw material. The impressive forage productivity figures are particularly noteworthy: the herbage yield may reach 60 tons per ha, and the seed yield - up to 1.4 tons per ha. This demonstrates the wide range of applications for this crop. Amaranthus paniculatus stands out among other crops due to its high protein content. Even in the dry matter of plants at the branching stage, the protein content may reach 26%, and the protein content per fodder unit may be up to 280 g. In addition to its nutritional value, amaranth seeds have significant medicinal properties. They help strengthen the immune and hormonal systems, have a beneficial effect on the pancreas, help normalize blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol. The protein content in the seeds reaches 17%, and they are rich in valuable essential amino acids. In general, the total protein of amaranth includes up to 40% of essential amino acids, making this crop extremely promising for further development and widespread use. In the Trans-Baikal Region, Amaranthus paniculatus is a new plant that has not been studied before. Therefore, it is of great interest for research. For the first time, the Department of Plant Growing at the Research Veterinary Institute of East Siberia (the Branch of the Siberian Federal Scientific Center of Agro-Biotechnologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences) started working with this crop. The scientists want to find out whether it is possible to grow amaranth under the severe conditions of Transbaikalia in order to use it as animal forage and as a raw material for medicine.