Capim BRS Capiaçu as a sustainable alternative for animal feeding on family properties: integrative literature review

Abstract

BRS Capiaçu grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum. cv. BRS Capiaçu) is an elephant grass cultivar developed by Embrapa, characterized by high biomass production potential, good nutritional value, and adaptation to different edaphoclimatic conditions. This study aimed to carry out an integrative literature review on the benefits and challenges of using BRS Capiaçu grass as forage on family farms, as well as its contribution to the economic, social, and environmental sustainability of these production systems. The bibliographic search was conducted in the ALICE, BDPA, SciELO, CAPES Journals Portal, and Google Scholar databases, from January to December 2025. Initially, 4,880 records were identified, of which 18 publications were selected after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The publications were organized into the following categories: origin, physiology, and plant requirements; use of BRS Capiaçu grass as forage; BRS Capiaçu grass silage; economic aspects of cultivation; nutritional value for cattle feeding; social and cultural sustainability; and challenges and limitations of cultivation. Overall, the analyzed studies indicate that BRS Capiaçu grass has high productive potential, good adaptation to different management systems, and feasibility for use on small and medium-sized farms, especially in cattle farming. However, its efficient use depends on adequate management, fertilization, appropriate cutting age, use of silage additives, and technical assistance for producers.