September 11, 2002

Lupin is a valuable protein source in animal diets and most lupins exported from Australia are used as soybean meal (SBM) substitutes in animal feeds.

Protein is highly valued in animal feed formulations and overseas lupin prices reflect the legume’s protein content.

Traditionally, there has been little or no incentive for Western Australian growers to boost lupin protein content, as the price they receive has not been determined by protein content.

However, growers have recently been encouraged to boost lupin protein levels, with premiums of A$3/tonne being paid by the Grain Pool of WA for each one per cent protein over a base of 32 per cent, in 0.1 per cent increments. Lupin protein content in WA fluctuates from less than 28 per cent to more than 36 per cent.

Research, supported by graingrowers and the Federal Government through the Grains Research & Development Corporation, is therefore developing a management package to help growers produce lupin with higher and more consistent protein levels, while maintaining or lifting yields.

Although the exact factors influencing lupin protein levels are still being determined, WA Department of Agriculture researcher Dr Bob French has found that genetic variation considerably affected protein content.

In 2000, Belara (average from five locations was 30.7 per cent) and Tanjil (31.8 per cent) cultivars consistently had the lowest protein levels, with Tallerack (33.6 per cent) and Myallie (33.8 per cent) having the highest. The recently released cultivar, Quilinock, had high yield and mid-range protein levels (32.8 per cent), but it is sensitive to anthracnose infection.

Protein also varies between locations and years. Average protein of eight cultivars at Esperance, Merredin, Wongan Hills and Mingenew was about 1.5 per cent higher in 2000 than in 1999. In 2000 the trial with the highest average protein was at Mingenew (34.1 percent), and the lowest at Esperance (31.4 per cent).

Still unknown is the impact of rotation, soil type, plant nutrition, nodulation and herbicide treatment on lupin protein levels and how they interact with each cultivar.

While research continues, growers can optimise lupin yield and protein content with adequate fertiliser, good weed control and effective insect control.