Alfalfa is an example of ________ in a dairy ration.

Alfalfa is classified as roughage in a dairy ration primarily due to its high fiber content and its role in promoting proper digestion in cattle. Roughages, which include forages such as grasses and legumes, are essential for providing the necessary fiber that supports rumen function and helps regulate the digestive process in dairy cattle.

In the context of a dairy ration, alfalfa not only serves as a primary source of roughage, but it also contributes key nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable part of the diet for lactating cows. Incorporating roughages like alfalfa into the diet ensures that dairy cows maintain healthy rumen activity and overall gut health, which is vital for maximizing milk production and sustaining animal welfare.

The other classifications—concentrates, additives, and supplements—typically refer to different types of feed components. Concentrates, for instance, are energy-dense feeds that mainly provide fats and carbohydrates, while additives include substances that might improve palatability or provide additional health benefits. Supplements are those ingredients added to enhance nutrient balance but are not the primary source of feeding like roughages are. Therefore, recognizing alfalfa as roughage is crucial when formulating a balanced dairy ration.