Overall model description

Abstract

The NorFor system is a semi-mechanistic, static and science-based model, which predicts nutrient supply and requirements for maintenance, milk production, growth and pregnancy in cattle. The model can be divided into five parts: (1) an input section describing characteristics of the animal and feeds available; (2) a module simulating processes in the digestive tract and the intermediary metabolism, termed the feed ration calculator (FRC); (3) a module predicting feed intake; (4) a module predicting the physical structure of the diet; and (5) an output section describing nutrient supply, nutrient balances and production responses (Figure 2.1).