What do forage crops primarily provide for livestock?

Forage crops are primarily cultivated to serve as feed for livestock. This includes various types of plants such as grasses, legumes, and other herbaceous plants that provide essential nutrients to grazing animals. The biomass from forage crops is a critical component of animal diets, offering energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals necessary for growth, reproduction, and overall health.

Forage crops allow livestock to graze and consume natural vegetation, promoting a diet that is often more beneficial for their health compared to solely grain-based feeds. This type of feeding supports sustainable livestock farming by utilizing land that may not be suitable for crop production meant for human consumption.

In the context of other options, while livestock do produce meat, fiber, and can consume grains, none of these represent the primary role of forage crops. Forage serves specifically as feed, making it essential for the nutrition of herbivorous animals in agricultural settings.