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Field performance and nutritive value of a new forage sorghum variety ‘Pnina’ recently developed in Israel
Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture
Abstract
A new forage sorghum entitled Pnina was developed in Israel. Pnina, harvested at early milk (EM) and hard dough (HD) stages of maturity, was compared with commercial sorghum variety FS-5 and a sorghum BMR/Sudan hybrid Nutriplus. Plants grew during summer and were irrigated with 190 mm water. Pnina was semi-dwarf (1.35 m height) and absolutely resistant to lodging. The tall varieties FS-5 and Nutriplus suffered at HD from high lodging. Pnina was more leafy than Nutriplus and FS-5. The dry matter (DM) content of FS-5 and Nutriplus were at EM below the level recommended for ensilage and elevated slightly at HD, whereas DM content of Pnina was higher. Crop yields of all varieties at HD were similar and ranged between 13.3 and 14.7 t ha−1 DM. Dry matter losses during ensilage and silage pH were similar in the three varieties at HD. In vitro DM digestibility of HD silages ranged between 62.5 and 67.1%. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content was higher in Pnina silages. Yields of digestible silage per hectare, were similar in the three varieties harvested at HD (8.4 to 8.8 t ha−1 DM); however, yield of digestible NDF per hectare was higher in Pnina. Data suggest that the new variety Pnina may have field advantage over the other varieties of this study. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
... Nutritional composition of fodder is highly sensitive to variation in balanced fertilizer application, drought/limited irrigation, genotypic characteristics, and higher population per unit area etc. [11,12]. Sorghum fodder contains higher digestible nutrients, consisting of 8% protein, 3% fat and 45% nitrogen-free extract [13]. ...
... Acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) were lowered by 18% and 8% at 80-40 kg ha −1 P-K application than control and other treatments ( Table 6) which might be due to higher lignin contents. These results supported our hypothesis that balanced nutrients application significantly influences forage quality [11]. Moreover, plant cell walls constituents (i.e., ADF, NDF cellulose, hemicelluloses, lignin, and tannins), which represent crude fiber content in forage, have a large influence on fodder digestibility. ...
... The increase in fodder crude fiber with development of growing stage may be due to increased concentration of cell wall constituents within stem and leaves as well as decreased soluble proportion of the cell [56]. This could be due to lignin accumulation and synthesis during secondary cell wall development [11]. Furthermore, balanced fertilization resulted in lower concentration of acid and neutral detergent fiber and increased in lignin, which reduced the digestibility of the plant [58]. ...
Citation: A.-u.-R.; Qamar, R.; Altaf, M.M.; Alwahibi, M.S.; Al-Yahyai, R.; Hussain, M. Phosphorus and Potassium Application Improves Fodder Yield and Quality of Sorghum in Aridisol under Diverse Climatic Conditions. Agriculture 2022, 12, 593. https://doi.org/10.3390/ agriculture12050593 Academic Editor: Markku Yli-Halla
... Nutritional composition of fodder is highly sensitive to variation in balanced fertilizer application, drought/limited irrigation, genotypic characteristics, and higher population per unit area etc. [11,12]. Sorghum fodder contains higher digestible nutrients, consisting of 8% protein, 3% fat and 45% nitrogen-free extract [13]. ...
... Acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) were lowered by 18% and 8% at 80-40 kg ha −1 P-K application than control and other treatments ( Table 6) which might be due to higher lignin contents. These results supported our hypothesis that balanced nutrients application significantly influences forage quality [11]. Moreover, plant cell walls constituents (i.e., ADF, NDF cellulose, hemicelluloses, lignin, and tannins), which represent crude fiber content in forage, have a large influence on fodder digestibility. ...
... The increase in fodder crude fiber with development of growing stage may be due to increased concentration of cell wall constituents within stem and leaves as well as decreased soluble proportion of the cell [56]. This could be due to lignin accumulation and synthesis during secondary cell wall development [11]. Furthermore, balanced fertilization resulted in lower concentration of acid and neutral detergent fiber and increased in lignin, which reduced the digestibility of the plant [58]. ...
Fodder yield and quality must be improved for sustainable livestock production. A lack of or low application of phosphorus (P) and potassium (P) are among the leading constraints of lower fodder yield and quality of sorghum [most cultivated fodder crop during kharif season (crop cultivation in summer and harvesting during winter] in Aridisol of Pakistan. Therefore, this two-year field study evaluated the role of different P and K levels on fodder yield and quality of sorghum cultivar ‘Ijar-2002’ planted in Multan and Okara districts, Punjab, Pakistan. Seven P-K (kg ha⁻¹) levels, i.e., T1 (40–0), T2 (80–0), T3 (0–40), T4 (0–60), T5 (40–40), T6 (80–40), T7 (60–80) and an untreated T0 (control) were included in the study. Results indicated that individual effects of years, locations and P-K levels had a significant effect on fodder yield and quality. All treatments received an equal amount of nitrogen (i.e., 120 kg ha⁻¹). Application of P-K in Aridisols at both locations significantly improved fodder yield, dry matter yield, and ether contents during both years. The T6 (80–40 kg ha⁻¹) significantly improved yield and quality traits of sorghum fodder except for crude fiber (CF) and acid and neutral detergent fiber (ADF and NDF) at both locations during both years of study. Moreover, fodder harvested from Multan observed significantly higher CF, ADF, NDF, cellulose and hemicellulose contents than Okara. However, sorghum grown in Okara harvested more fodder yield due to more plant height and ether contents. In conclusion, planting sorghum in Aridisols, fertilized with 80–40 kg ha⁻¹ P-K seemed a viable option to harvest more fodder yield of better quality.
... The contradictory results might have been due to variation in genetic traits of plants. Compared with the current study, lower plant heights were also obtained (Ayub et al., 1999; Mahmud et al., 2003; Carmi et al., 2005; Carmi et al., 2006; Yosef et al., 2009). These differences can be attributed to differences in climatic conditions, fertility status of the soil, cultivation practices, harvesting time, and genetic make-up of the cultivars. ...
... Proportion of leaves was continuously decreased depending on advancement in maturity. Similar results were also reported by some researchers (Cakmakci et al., 1999; Carmi et al., 2005; Carmi et al., 2006). This situation might be associated with increasing proportion of panicle during advancement in maturity. ...
... rowing cultivars such as Rox;Table II). Proportion of leaves was continuously decreased depending on advancement in maturity. Similar results were also reported by some researchers (Cakmakci et al., 1999; Carmi et al., 2005; Carmi et al., 2006). This situation might be associated with increasing proportion of panicle during advancement in maturity. Carmi et al. (2005) reported that high proportions of leaves needs for good quality sorghum silage and leaves are main contributor of protein in sorghum (Hanna et al., 1981; Pedersen et al., 1983; Cakmakci et al., 1999). Therefore, a high proportion of foliage is a desired feature in sorghum. Proportion of stems was higher in the PM stage as compared with ...
Forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is one of the most important fresh fodder and silage sources in the world, and its quality and yield are directly related in the harvesting time. In this study, four forage sorghum cultivars (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) were compared to determine effects of delayed harvesting time on the changes in yield and forage quality. Field experiments were conducted during the 2010 and 2011 growing seasons. Four forage sorghum cultivars (Early Sumac, Leotti, Nes, Rox) were harvested at four different growing stages (panicle emergence stage (PE), milky stage (MS), dough stage (DS) and physiologic maturity stage (PM)). Dry matter, fresh forage yield, plant height, dry matter content, panicle proportion, protein yield, lignin content and relative feed value (RFV) tended to increase with advanced plant maturity, while leaf proportion, protein content, neutral detergent fiber content (NDF), acid detergent fiber content (ADF), cellulose content and hemicellulose content tended to decrease. Dry matter contents of all sorghum cultivars harvested during the PE and MS stages were below 247 g kg -1 . Among whole plant organs, stem proportion was higher than those of leaf and panicle proportions. Mean dry matter yields of cultivars were ranged from 18.75 t ha -1 to 20.15 t ha -1 . These findings have shown that suitable harvesting time of forage sorghum is PM stage for high yield and fodder quality, but it may be harvested at DS stage due to increasing lignin content. None of these sorghum cultivars should be harvested before DS stage for ensilage due to low dry matter content. Nes can be preferred because of the high forage and protein yield. © 2012 Friends Science Publishers
... Several varieties and hybrids of sorghum are available for high forage biomass which also vary in their chemical composition, including, protein, structural and non-structural carbohydrates Carmi et al., 2005). An optimum seeding rate of 30-40 kg ha -1 is suggested for forage sorghum (Kim et al., 1989). ...
... Whole plant biomass of sorghum mainly contains water soluble carbohydrates (6-15%), protein (6-9%), hemicelluloses (22-26%), cellulose (21-28%) and lignin (3-7%) (Miron et al., 2006;Carmi et al., 2005). The content of protein was not significantly affected by plant density in current study. ...
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a C 4 annual grass which can produce high biomass yields. A study was conducted at research station Rauischholzhausen (50° N and 8° E, 220 m above sea level) during 2008 to investigate the effect of planting density and sowing times on biomass production and chemical composition of sorghum hybrids. Treatments consisted of different sowing dates (9 th , 19 th and 29 th May 2008), three planting densities (16, 24, 32 plants m-2) and two cultivars: Goliath (late maturing, S. bicolor × S. bicolor, source; Agroczemek KFT. Hungary) and Bovital (early maturing, S. bicolor × S. sudanense, source; Agroczemek KFT. Hungary). Plant density had no significant impact on dry matter yield in this study. Dry matter yield was significantly different among cultivars tested in this study. Cultivar Goliath was more productive regarding biomass production compared to cv. Bovital. Planting density showed minimal impact on biomass as well as quality of sorghum. Significantly lower content of structural carbohydrates (acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber and lignin) were synthesized by cv. Bovital compared to cv. Goliath. On the other hand, protein and ash concentrations were greater in cv. Bovital than cv. Goliath. It was concluded that there were clear differences for biomass and chemical composition of the tested cultivars of sorghum. Planting density had lesser influence on biomass as well as quality of sorghum.
... Jawar-2011 produced maximum dry matter yield among the cultivars due to higher LAI, plant height, stem girth, and higher weight per plant. Likewise, variations among the sorghum cultivars in the context of biomass yield have been also documented by other researchers (Carmi et al. 2005;Miron et al. 2006;Mahmood et al. 2015). ...
... The higher ADF, NDF, and ADL contents in JS-2011 might be due to higher stem proportion, because stems are considered to have more fiber contents compared to other plant parts. These findings are corroborated with findings of previous research who found the considerable variations among the cultivars ADF, NDF, and ADL (Carmi et al. 2005;Miron et al. 2006;Beck et al. 2007;Mahmood and Honermeier 2012). The results of the current study revealed that cultivars responded differently to specific methane yield and methane yield per hectare basis. ...
Biomass is a promising renewable energy source and its significance is escalating in the context of climate change and depletion of fossil foils. This study was conducted for two consecutive years 2016 and 2017, using five sorghum cultivars, i.e., JS-263, Jawar-2011, Hagari, JS-2002, and YS-2016, in order to determine the best cultivars in terms of dry matter yield, chemical composition, and biomethane yield grown under semi-arid conditions in Pakistan. The results revealed that sorghum cultivars responded differently in terms of growth, biomass yield, chemical composition, and methane yield. Cultivars Jawar-2011 produced maximum leaf area index, leaf area duration, crop growth rate, plant height, and leaves per plant, however, they were comparable with Sorghum-2016, whereas cultivar JS-2002 performed poorly among the tested cultivars. Similarly, cultivar Jawar-2011 produced maximum dry matter yield (16.37 t ha⁻¹) similar to that of YS-2016, further cultivar JS-2002 performed poorly and gave lower dry matter yield (12.87 t ha⁻¹). The maximum protein concentration (10.95), neutral detergent fibers (61.20), and lignin contents (5.55) found in Jawar-2011 were comparable with those in YS-2016, while the lowest neutral detergent fiber and lignin contents were found in JS-2002. Although JS-2002 produced the highest specific methane yield per kilogram of volatile solids, it was overcompensated by Jawar-2011 owing to higher dry matter yield per hectare. These results suggested that cultivar Jawar-2011 can be grown successfully in semi-arid conditions of Pakistan in order to get good biomass yield along with higher methane yield.
... Fraction of leaves was constantly reduced as improvement in maturity . Harvest time significantly influenced the fodder quality parameters like acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber and lignin which were maximum at late harvest stage (Butler and Muir, 2003;Carmi et al., 2005). Lignin accumulation and synthesis occur at the stage of secondary cell wall development . ...
... Our results supported the findings of Huang et al. (2012) they reported that delayed harvest stage produced lower crude protein concentration which might be due to the higher dry matter yield per land area. Differences in crude protein content among genotypes were also reported by Carmi et al. (2005); Miron et al. (2005); Miron et al. (2006); Yosef et al. (2009). They reported that crude protein concentration was maximum at the first harvest stage and declined with maturity of plant due to increase in concentration of acid and neutral detergent fiber and lignin. ...
The study was conducted to investigate the fodder quality of four maize cultivars; DK919, 30R50, 31R88 and 6621 as influenced by harvest time at Agronomic Research Area of University of Sargodha. Maize cultivars were harvested at three different times viz. 80, 90 and 100 days after sowing (DAS). Significant differences were recorded among the cultivars for plant height, acid and neutral detergent fiber contents, lignin and crude protein. Maximum acid detergent fiber content, neutral detergent fiber content and lignin were observed at 100 DAS while crude protein was maximum at 80 DAS. However, plant height was remained unaffected with respect to harvest times. Moreover, maize cultivars had distinct differences in plant height and fodder quality parameters. Maximum plant height and crude protein were recorded in cultivar 31R88. The cultivar DK919 showed maximum values of acid detergent fiber content and neutral detergent fiber while lignin content was higher in V6621. Fodder quality parameters of cultivars 31R88, DK919 and V6621 were superior than 31R88 under the present climatic conditions of Sargodha.
... That NDF content is high in roughage reduces animal consumption (Yavuz, 2005). NDF ratios of the Sorghum obtained in the study are similar to the findings of Carmi et al. (2005) and Mwangi (2016), they are not similar to the results of Karadag and Ozkurt (2014). This can be said to be due to the different ecological conditions, variety and agronomic practices in which the experiment was conducted. ...
... It can be said that this is due to the difference in ecological conditions and agronomic work carried out by the experiment. On the other hand, the meane DMD ratio of examined Sorghum variaties in our study was determined as 61.82% and while these results are similar to findings of Carmi et al. (2005), but with the findings of Mwangı (2016). In another study conducted on the subject, Uzun and Cigdem (2006) have found the DMD ratio of Sweetreat, Sorgo 10, and Pioneer 931 big maize x sudan grass hybrids as 57.06% in the period of harvested spike season, but these results are lower than our findings. ...
... Various hybrids and varieties of sorghum differ in their chemical composition, including content of water soluble carbohydrate (WSC), protein, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL). Consequently, considerable differences between varieties with respect to dry matter and NDF digestibility of the silage have been reported (Hanna et al., 1981;Pedersen et al., 1982;Ashbell et al., 1999;Carmi et al., 2005;Miron et al., 2006;Beck et al., 2007). ...
... In our experiments, NDF concentration varied from 50 to 61%, which is comparable to those found in previous studies on forage sorghum Carmi et al., 2005;Marsalis et al., 2010). Significant interactions between cultivars and row spacings revealed that cultivars exhibited different trends regarding NDF concentration at different row spacings. ...
... Forage sorghum is a good forage crop for ensilage, but the quality and digestibility of ensiling differ depending on the maturity stage at harvesting time 8,15 . Similar results were also reported for maize and sunflower 16,17 . ...
... Similar results were also reported by Gul et al. 4 . Also, Carmi et al. 15 reported that dry matter losses were decreased depending on advancement in maturity. However, Filya 16 suggested that dry matter degradability of maize silage might be declined at too late harvests. ...
The present study was conducted to investigate the ensilage properties of sorghum cultivars at different harvesting times. To achieve this aim, four silage sorghum cultivars (cv. Early Sumac, Leotti, Nes and Rox) were harvested at four different growing stages (panicle emergence stage (PE), milky stage (MS), dough stage (DS) and physiologic maturity stage (PM)). For four cultivars and four harvesting times, sorghum forage ensiled for total 16 silage samples with 3 replications. At the end of a 60-days period of silage, silage samples were opened. Dry matter content, crude lipid content, lignin content and flieg point tended to increase with advanced plant maturity, while CO2 production, neutral detergent fiber content (NDF), acid detergent fiber content (ADF), cellulose content and hemicellulose content tended to decrease. The pH values of sorghum silages were not significantly influenced by harvest time. Also, dry matter content, flieg point, crude lipid content, NDF, ADF, lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose content were significantly influenced by cultivars. These findings showed that suitable harvesting time of forage sorghum is a PM stage for suitable ensilage and among four cultivars, cv. Nes can be preferred because of the high dry matter content, high flieg point and low CO2 production.
... Mekash et al. [8] reported a range of 7.7-9.1 t/ha for the stover yield of three different sorghum varieties. A yield range of 9.5-12.5 and 13.3-14.7 for three forage sorghum varieties collected in the early milk and hard dough stages, respectively, was found by Carmi et al. [9]. The author also reported that the variations had a higher stem percentage than leaf fraction. ...
... According to Qu et al. [2014], the increase in crude fiber content with successive phases of plant growth may be due to increased concentration of cell wall components in the stem and leaves and reduced cell solubility. Carmi et al. [2005] additionally suggest that this may be due to the accumulation and synthesis of lignin during the development of the secondary cell wall. In their study, they found an interaction which showed that at the field pea flowering stage, the lowest crude fiber content was shown by field pea and the mixture with the highest proportion of field pea at sowing. ...
The work presents results of a study conducted in 2016–2018 to determine the effect of component share in the mixture and harvest stage on concentration of crude fibre and its fractions as well as digestibility of field pea/spring triticale mixtures. The following two factors were examined in a field experiment: factor I – component share in a mixture: field pea in pure stand 100%, spring triticale in pure stand 100%, field pea 75% + spring triticale 25%, field pea 50% + spring triticale 50%, field pea 25% + spring triticale 75%; factor II – harvest stage: field pea flowering stage (BBCH 65), field pea flat green pod stage (BBCH 79). The concentration of crude fibre and its fractions (NDF, ADF, ADL) were determined in the dry matter in addition to dry matter digestibility and organic matter digestibility. The lowest content of crude fiber and its fractions, among the mixtures, was revealed in the mixture with the share of components of pea and spring triticale 75% + 25% and 50% + 50%, respectively. Harvesting mixtures at a later stage caused an increase in crude fiber content and its fraction in dry matter. The superior dry matter digestibility and organic matter digestibility were found for field pea and field pea/spring triticale mixtures containing 75% + 25% and 50% + 50% of the respective components and harvested at the stage of field pea flowering.
... The finding is in consistent withMiron et al. (2005) who reported the low digestibility in NDF rich fodder sorghum leaves compared to other parts of sorghum plants. They reported the lowest in-vitro DMCarmi et al. (2005) reported that the plant density had no significant effect on the DM and NDF content as well the DM digestibility of forage sorghum. Similarly, a study byPushparajah and Sinniah (2018) reported that DM, NDF, ADF or CP content of Sugargraze and Jumbo-plus hybrid sorghum varieties harvested at 60 days were not influenced by the plant density. ...
This study was conducted to investigate the effect of low fertilizer rate and irrigation along with increased plant density on nutritive value of hybrid fodder sorghum cultivated in lowland fallowed paddy fields in dry zone during May to September. Seeds were sown in Yala season and continued as a ratoon crop to inter-monsoonal (Third) season. Four agronomic management packages (AMP1, AMP2, AMP3 and AMP4), which differ in fertilizer application rates, plant spacing, and irrigation intervals were tested with two fodder sorghum varieties (SX-17 and Dairygreen) in a split-plot design. The initial and first ratoon crops were harvested at dough grain stage. High fertilizer rate in combination with short irrigation interval, resulted in high (P<0.05) crude protein content in the initial harvest. AMP2 and AMP4 produced equally high (P<0.05) total dry matter yield (DMY) for SX-17 (24.7 and 20.9 MT/ha, respectively) and Dairygreen (27.7 and 25.7 MT/ha, respectively) varieties. Total digestible organic matter, crude protein and metabolizable energy yields were higher under AMP2 and AMP4 compared to other two packages for both varieties. Nutritive value was high in SX-17 under AMP1 for ratoon crop. In conclusion, AMP4 with plant spacing of 45 x 15 cm, low fertilizer rate (338-47-28 kg/ha, urea-TSP-MOP) and extended irrigation interval, could be recommended for cultivation of hybrid fodder sorghum in lowland paddy fields in the dry zone during Yala season. However, for cultivating SX-17 targeting to produce fodder with high nutritive level, AMP1 with spacing of 45 x 30 cm, high fertilizer rate (400-62-37 kg/ha of urea-TSP-MOP) and frequent irrigation could be recommended.
... Research has shown the BMR trait to be less important in corn than in sorghum and pearl millet owing to the higher grain fraction in corn because the grains are easily digested. Coors et al. (1997) showed the grain fraction of corn to be in the range of 30 to 50% on a dry matter basis, whereas a much lower grain fraction of 10 to 25% in forage sorghum was observed by Carmi et al. (2005) and of 10 to 18% in pearl millet by Andrews and Kumar (1992) and Seghatoleslami et al. (2008). Further minimizing the benefit of BMR in corn is that the penalties in yield reduction and lodging are greater than in pearl millet and forage sorghum (Eastridge, 1999). ...
Core Ideas
Declining groundwater supplies, the increasing cost of irrigation, and excessive summer dryness threaten the sustainability of corn production in the Texas High Plains (THP).
Forage sorghum and pearl millet are potential alternatives to corn silage.
Sorghum and pearl millet are likely to replace much of the corn silage crop in the THP.
Diminishing irrigation water from the Ogallala aquifer to produce forage crops is jeopardizing the beef and dairy industries in the Texas High Plains (THP). The principal feed ingredient of the beef and dairy sectors is corn (Zea mays L.) silage, which is produced near the feeding operations to minimize transport costs, unlike concentrated feed, which can be transported long distances. The declining pumping capacity of irrigation wells hinders the ability to sustain a supply of water for profitable corn production in the THP. Forage sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] and pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] are known for their ability to tolerate drought and heat, which enables them to produce high forage yields with less water than corn. Pearl millet and sorghum can also be harvested as hay, greenchop, or silage like corn. Introduction of the brown midrib (BMR) trait into pearl millet and sorghum has enhanced their nutrient composition. Brown midrib is a genetic trait associated with reduced lignin synthesis, resulting in enhanced digestion of forage fiber in the bovine (Bos taurus) rumen, thereby increasing weight gain and milk production per ton of forage fed over non‐BMR types. Therefore, BMR forage sorghum and BMR pearl millet could be potential alternative forage crops where water is insufficient to grow corn silage in the THP. Hence, the objective of this review paper is to compare the water use efficiency, nutritional composition, associated antinutritional compounds, animal performance, and potential yields of BMR forage sorghum and BMR pearl millet with corn.
... The structural fibers including cellulose, hemi-cellulose and lignin are parts of secondary cell wall, and they appear during the formation and thickening of cell walls, therefore, cell wall thickening increases with maturity which in turn influences the structural fiber and lignin concentrations. Earlier researchers also reported structural fiber and lignin contents considerably increased with the advancing maturity (Filya, 2004;Carmi et al., 2005;Miron et al., 2006). The ash concentrations decreased with delayed harvesting owing to loss of plant leaves and translocation of inorganic nutrients form vegetative plant parts to reproductive parts. ...
A two-year field study was conducted during 2016 and 2017 to determine the influence of harvesting times on biomass yield, quality and bio-methane yield of sorghum. Harvesting times considerably influenced the growth attributes, biomass quality and bio-methane yield. The maximum plant height, and dry matter (DM) yield were recorded 105 DAS, whilst lowest values of these parameters were recorded 60 DAS. Similarly, the maximum protein and sugar concentration were found 60 days after sowing (DAS), after that a substantial reduction in protein and sugar concentration were found with advancing maturity. Moreover, the highest acid and neutral detergent fiber, lignin, cellulose and hemi-cellulose were found 120 DAS whereas; minimum acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, lignin, cellulose and hemi-cellulose were observed 60 DAS. Likewise, maximum specific methane yield was recorded 60 DAS, while minimum specific methane yield were recorded 120 DAS, conversely, maximum methane yield ha⁻¹ were recorded after 105 DAS owing to higher dry matter yield ha⁻¹. Interestingly, we also found strong positive correlation between dry matter yield and methane yield and negative relationship between lignin concentrations and specific methane yield. In conclusion, sorghum crop can be harvested after, 105 DAS owing to high dry matter yield ha⁻¹ for maximizing its potential for bio-methane yield.
... The better performance of cv. Goliath may reflect the higher proportion of stems in its biomass, since stems are more fibre rich than other organs (Carmi et al., 2005). The higher concentration of lignin accumulated by cv. ...
Biogas from biomass is a promising renewable energy source whose importance is increasing in European as well as in other countries. A field experiment at one location (Experimental Station Giessen, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Germany) over two years was designed to study the effect of altering sowing time (ST), planting density and cultivar on the biomass yield and chemical composition of biomass sorghum, and its potential for methane production. Of the two cultivars tested, cv. Goliath (intraspecific hybrid) was more productive with respect to biomass yield than cv. Bovital (S. bicolor x S. sudanense hybrid). ST also influenced biomass yield and most of the quality parameters measured. Delayed sowing was in general advantageous. The choice of cultivar had a marked effect on biogas and methane yield. The highest biogas and methane yields were produced by late sown cv. Bovital. Sub-optimal planting densities limited biomass accumulation of the crop, however neither the chemical composition nor the methane yield was affected by planting density.
... The lower IVDDM exhibited by the Brazilian FS than that described for both conventional FS and FS-BMR grown in the USA (Bean et al. 2013) supports this. It is possible that the high proportion of stems in Brazilian plant tissues have contributed to lower the IVDMD of the whole plant (Pedersen et al. 1982;Carmi et al. 2005Carmi et al. , 2006. ...
Forage sorghum (FS) (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is a key feed source for ruminants owing to its high yield and drought tolerance. The present paper assessed the agronomic characteristics, silage quality, intake and digestibility of five new Brazilian sorghum cultivars (BRS Ponta Negra variety, BRS 655 hybrid, BR 601 hybrid, BRS 506 variety and BRS 610 hybrid). Forages were grown (randomized complete block design) in a typical Brazilian north-eastern semi-arid climate, irrigated with 267 mm water, harvested as plants reached the soft dough stage of grain maturity and ensiled under laboratory and farm conditions. Apparent digestibility of the silages was determined using 25 Santa Inês lambs. BRS 506 outperformed the other cultivars in dry matter (DM) and digestible DM yields/ha. BRS 506 exhibited the lowest neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) contents and the highest in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of the cultivars examined. BRS 655 produced the lowest level of lactic acid and the highest pH and ammonia-N concentration. There was no difference in intake or digestibility of DM among cultivars. Silages produced from BRS Ponta Negra resulted in higher crude protein (CP) intake than BRS 655. Silages made from BRS 506 and BRS Ponta Negra resulted in a greater digestibility of CP than those produced from BRS 655. Intake of NDF in silages generated from BRS Ponta Negra and BRS 610 was higher than that found in other cultivars. Although an average Brazilian North-eastern FS exhibited similar characteristics to other cultivars grown in dry regions around the world, the results indicated that BRS 506 had a yield advantage and higher nutritive value under Brazilian semi-arid conditions as compared to the other cultivars examined.
... It can be supposed that increased protein content in Bovital may enhance the specific biogas and methane yield of this cultivar than that of Goliath. The higher NDF content in Goliath might be a result of greater fraction of leaves and stems in this variety which contain more NDF (Carmi et al. 2005). In the present study PD has no clear effect on the NDF content of sorghum. ...
This two-year research was carried out to clarify the effect of varying sowing time, planting density and cultivar on the biomass yield and chemical composition of sorghum. The leaf area index of the sorghum plant stand reached a maximal value of 5.0-5.7 at 97 days after sowing (DAS). Cultivar 'Bovital' was more productive with respect to the number of tillers per plant as well as per m2. Cultivars had clear impact on most of the quality parameters. Cultivar 'Goliath' (Sorghum bicolor × S. bicolor hybrid) had a higher biomass yield than Bovital (S. bicolor × S. sudanense hybrid). Dry matter yield was largely unaffected by the plant density at all sowing times. It was observed that Goliath exhibited higher sugar and neutral detergent fibre, while a greater content of protein was found in Bovital. Plant density had no clear influence on most of the quality parameters.
... The inrow spacing was 0.2 m, while the length of row was 5 m. The blocks are the sites (locations) and the treatments are the sorghum lines (Carmi et al., 2005;Milken and Johnson, 1997). ...
This study presents a multi-environment trial to evaluate the performance of sorghum lines in a target population of environments in Zimbabwe. The study attempts to determine whether genotypic variation and/or genotype-environment interaction have a significant effect on sorghum performance. It also attempts to determine whether the promising sorghum lines perform better than the established varieties with the aim of selecting promising sorghum lines of superior performance. To analyse the data, multivariate analysis of variance is used in this study. Results show that both environment and genotypic variation contribute to differences in sorghum line performance. Results in two of the selected sites (Kadoma and Matopos) suggest that sorghum lines significantly differ in their performance due to genotypic make-up. It is concluded that environment is the major contributor to differences in sorghum performance though genotypic make-up also play a part. Provisionally, promising lines of superior performance are NL9411 and NL9907.
... Various hybrids and varieties of sorghum differ in their dry matter (DM), water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC), protein, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL) contents (Pedersen et al., 1982;Neumann et al., 2002;Carmi et al., 2005). Consequently, considerable differences in DM and NDF digestibility among sorghum silages have been reported (Ashbell et al., 1999;Miron et al., 2005;Machado et al., 2011). ...
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the voluntary intake and digestibility of three sorghum (Sorghum bicolor, L. Moench) hybrid silages in sheep. The hybrids used were H1-BRS 655 (CMSXS 222 A × CMSXS 235 R), with tannin; H2-(ATF54 A × CMSXS 235 R), without tannin; and H3-BRS 610 (CMSXS 232 A × CMSXS 234 R), without tannin. The intake and digestibility of dry matter (DM), gross energy (GE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and crude protein (CP) were measured. Eighteen crossbred sheep weighing 59.4 kg (±8.3) were used in the trial. A completely randomized design with three treatments (hybrids) and six repetitions (sheep) was used. There were no differences in the DM intake or apparent digestibility among the hybrids. Silage of hybrid BRS 610 displayed higher digestibility coefficients for CP, NDF, ADF, and GE compared with the other silages, which did not differ from each other. The neutral detergent fiber, ADF and digestible energy (DE) intakes were similar among the hybrids silages. All of the hybrids resulted in a positive N balance in sheep. The levels of DE were superior in hybrid silage BRS 610 in comparison with the other hybrids. Sorghum hybrid BRS 610 silage exhibited superior nutritional value compared with the other hybrids, which is most likely in part due to the absence of tannins. Sorghum silage made with hybrid BRS 610 (CMSXS 232 A × CMSXS 234 R) presents superior gross energy, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber digestibility coefficients, as well as greater digestible energy levels than BRS 655 (CMSXS 222 A × CMSXS 235 R) and (ATF54 A × CMSXS 235 R).
... Several researchers have reported a strong relationship between plant fiber and digestibility (Zimmer et al., 1980;Deinum et al., 1984;Russell et al., 1992). Fiber fractions of whole plants generally decreased with maturity (Wiersma et al., 1993;Xu et al., 1995;Carmi et al., 2005). Therefore, it can be assumed that the increase in IVDMD observed in the present study was attributed to the concomitant decrease in plant fiber content; however, the relationship between ADF and IVDMD was inconsistent. ...
The objective of this study was to estimate the feasibility of sweet sorghum (cv. Hunnigreen) as a source of green fodder and its potential as a silage crop in humid environments. One variety of sweet sorghum and two varieties of corn were compared in dry matter (DM) yield and forage quality, as measured by field performance and nutritive value. Forages were grown in a complete randomized block design with 3 replications over a two year period, harvested at the milk stage (MS) and dough stage (DS). The sweet sorghum had higher leaf area index (LAI) and plant height than both Yudan 8 and Denghai 9 corn varieties because of its characteristic lateness. Dry matter (DM) content of sweet sorghum at DS was above the minimum DM content (>247 g kg−1) needed for optimum ensiling though lower (P < 0.05) than both corn varieties. Mean DM yield of sweet sorghum (43.0 t ha−1) at DS, in two years, was higher (P < 0.05) than both corn varieties (27.0–28.8 t ha−1). Crude protein (CP) in DM and in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD) of sweet sorghum had no significant difference compared to corn (a change of 52.1–56.6 g kg−1 DM). Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) of sweet sorghum was higher (P < 0.05) than that of both corn varieties except for NDF at MS in 2008. Data indicated that sweet sorghum has a higher yield than corn, with similar CP content and IVDMD. Stable nutritive value and multiple harvests of sweet sorghum offers great potential as an alternative silage crop compared to corn in the relatively humid environment of eastern China.
... From this perspective the Tal variety is very useful as its minimal DM content at SD exceeds 370 g/kg. The corresponding value for corn is similar at SD; these DM content values are much higher than those obtained for tall forage sorghums varieties at SD, which exhibit DM content values ranging below 280 g/kg (Miron et al., , 2006Carmi et al., 2005). During Tal maturation a considerable increase of DM content was detected, from 252 to 397 g/kg, even under high IL. ...
Most of the commercial varieties of forage sorghum belong to the tall types. Use of low types is limited, mainly due to their lower forage productivity. Recently a new low variety of forage sorghum, Tal, was developed in Israel. This study examined effects of irrigation level (IL) and plant density (PD) on Tal productivity and quality, as measured by field performance, chemical composition and in vitro digestibility. The optimal harvest stage for getting the best combination of yield amount and forage quality was explored. Irrigation included levels of 20, 100 and 180mm, and PD consisted of 200,000, 260,000 and 330,000plants/ha. Harvests were carried out at maturity stages of early heading (EH) and soft dough (SD). Tal resistance to lodging was high. High irrigation increased plant height and dry matter (DM) yield in both harvests, and enhanced the content of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and lignin, at EH. In most cases, additional irrigation decreased DM content, DM ratio of leaves/stems, and in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD). Plant density did not affect significantly plant height or DM yield at either harvest, but did affect DM digestibility at EH. Maturation from EH to SD increased considerably DM content under all irrigation levels, and DM yield only under high irrigation. Maturation increased DM allocation to the panicles and enhanced their DM digestibility. Tal has the potential to become a successful forage crop, which under sufficient irrigation attains the best digestible DM and NDF yields at SD.
... DM content (%) was higher for CS (28.2) than for SF (18.5). DM content of SF resulted lower than the value (25%) suggested by Carmi et al. (2005) (for sorghum forage) to ensure a margin of safety against production of effluents and high chance of spoilage and dry matter loss during ensilage. However, Di Marco et al. (2009) ensiled a SF with a DM content of 20% and obtained a good silage. ...
Rumen dry matter and fibre digestibility of brown midrib (BMR) sorghum forage silage (SF) in comparison to corn silage (CS) was determined in situ using 3 fistulated dry cows. The effect of replacing CS with SF on milk production was studied in a change-over design with 58 lactating Italian Friesian cows fed two diets with similar composition. CS had a higher (P<0.001) rapidly degradable dry matter (DM) fraction than SF (33.1 vs. 23.7, respectively), whilst the slowly degradable fraction was not different (46.3 vs. 48.7). Overall, the extent of DM rumen degradability was higher for CS. Rumen digestion rate of neutral detergent fibre (aNDFom) tended to be higher (P=0.06) for SF than CS (3.08 vs. 2.49 %/h, respectively); however, effective rumen degradability of fibre was not different between silages. Neither milk yield (kg/d) and 4%-fat corrected milk nor milk protein and fat contents were affected by treatment. Cows fed CS diet had lower (P<0.05) milk urea content compared with their SF counterparts (19.9 vs. 21.5 mg/dL,) suggesting a better nitrogen utilization at the rumen level. In conclusion, feeding a BMR sorghum forage resulted in milk yield and quality similar to corn silage. However, to obtain comparable milk production as corn silage, the SF-based diet had to be supplemented with more starch from corn meal.
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) presents a suitable source of green fodder in the livestock sector. However, its use as livestock feed is limited by a high concentration of lignocellulose. A study was conducted to evaluate the influence of environment and developmental stage of harvesting on lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose concentration of selected fodder sorghum cultivars. A field experiment was laid in a randomized complete block design and replicated three times at Egerton University (0°22′S; 35°55′E in Nakuru county), Rongai (0°23′N; 35°51′E in Nakuru county) and Marigat (0°46′N; 35°98′E in Baringo county) in Kenya in the years 2019 and 2020. Twenty different genotypes of sorghum were grown in a randomized complete block design and sampled at the booting and dough stages of development. The samples were analyzed for cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose content. Plant growth, number of days to 50% heading, and daily average temperatures were recorded. Cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content varied among genotypes and across the three environments. The lowest cellulose content was recorded in line E6518 when sampled at the booting stage at Egerton (17.02%) while the highest concentration was recorded in IS11442 (43.87%) from Marigat at the dough stage. Lignin was highest in sorghum grown at Marigat than at Egerton and Rongai while sorghum harvested at dough stage had higher cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin concentration than at booting stage. Location which distinctively varied on average daily temperature had a significant (p > 0.05) effect on the three parameters with sorghum grown at Egerton showing the lowest lignocellulose content followed by Rongai and Marigat, respectively. Lignin was positively correlated with plant height and days to 50% heading. However, regression analysis showed a negative relationship between days to 50% heading and the total sum of temperature. Crop developmental stage, genotype, and environment determine the lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose concentration in fodder sorghum. The recommendation of suitable sorghum fodder for a region should consider local growing temperature and the developmental stage of harvesting.
Perubahan iklim telah terjadi secara alamiah di lapisan biosfer sepanjang waktu. Namun, perubahan iklim yang terjadi saat ini makin meningkat intensitas dan lajunya dikarenakan aktivitas manusia melalui emisi antropogenik gas rumah kaca (GRK). Meningkatnya konsentrasi GRK dan suhu permukaan bumi telah menyebabkan pemanasan global yang mengakibatkan terjadinya perubahan iklim yang memberikan dampak yang kompleks pada semua sektor kehidupan manusia. Adaptasi sangatlah penting untuk menjaga keberlanjutan sistem kehidupan di bumi. Adaptasi diartikan sebagai tindakan menyesuaikan diri untuk antisipasi dampak perubahan iklim dengan tujuan meringankan dampak buruk yang dihadapi. Kegiatan adaptasi diharapkan dapat meningkatkan resiliensi terhadap dampak negatif perubahan iklim. Adaptasi dapat berbentuk teknologi, langkah aksi, maupun kebijakan. Selain itu, kearifan lokal menjadi hal yang sangat penting dan memiliki peran sentral dalam upaya adaptasi terhadap perubahan iklim di Indonesia. Buku ini memperkenalkan berbagai teknologi adaptasi dan kearifan lokal pada sektor prioritas RPJMN 2020–2024, yaitu sektor pesisir dan kelautan, ketersediaan sumber daya air, pertanian dan pangan, serta kesehatan. Buku ini diharapkan dapat menjadi sumber literasi guna meningkatkan kesadaran masyarakat terhadap perubahan iklim. Lebih lanjut, teknologi dan kearifan lokal untuk adaptasi perubahan iklim yang ada diharapkan dapat diadopsi oleh masyarakat yang lebih luas.
Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is an important fodder; however, its use is limited by the presence of dhurrin that breaks down to yield hydrocyanic acid (HCN), which is toxic to livestock. Twenty sorghum cultivars were evaluated in two sites in the year 2019 and three sites in the year 2020 (Egerton, Rongai, and Marigat representing cool, warm, and hot regions in Kenya) in randomized complete block design with three replications and plants sampled at booting and dough growth stages to measure hydrocyanic acid potential (HCN‐p) of sorghum. Analysis of variance revealed significant effects of both two‐way and higher‐order interactions of cultivar (G), location (L), and stage (S) by season (Y), that is, G × L × S, G × L × Y, G × Y, G × S, L × S, and L × Y. Main factors (cultivar, location, and stage) also have a significant effect on HCN‐p of sorghum. IESV9110 had the highest HCN‐p (146.09 mg kg), while EST 37 had the lowest HCN‐p (83.97 mg kg⁻¹) across all locations. There was a progressive increase in HCN‐p from a cooler region to a warmer and a hotter region, respectively. HCN‐p on average was 47.8% less at Egerton University than at Marigat, 35.4% higher in Marigat compared to Rongai, and 14.41% less in Rongai compared to Egerton. Sorghum sampled at booting stage had averagely higher HCN‐p (133.94 mg kg⁻¹) compared to dough stage (91.31 mg kg⁻¹). The average air temperatures during the growing seasons were 24–27.3°C, 21.8–22.9°C, and 16.5–19.5°C for Marigat, Rongai, and Egerton, respectively. Growing temperature needs consideration when recommending fodder sorghum with low HCN‐p.
Sorghum is a multifunctional crop as a source of food, feed, and alternative energy. Plant breeding using the radiation mutation technique was applied to improve the characteristics of sorghum according to its purpose. This study evaluated the agronomic and fiber characteristics of selected sorghum mutant lines. Eight sorghum mutant lines were observed in this study (GHP-2, GHP-3, GHP-4, GHP-5, GHP-7, G-5, P-341, and P36.M10). Pahat and Bioguma sorghum varieties were used as control. Compared to eight selected mutant lines, Bioguma variety was the tallest plant. Except for P-341, all selected mutant sorghum lines produced lower plant biomass than Bioguma. The highest sugar content was produced by G-5 and P-36.M10. There are no significant differences in seed production per panicle. The lowest fiber fractions in the leaf and stem were produced by GHP-3 and G-5 mutant lines, respectively. Based on our findings, the P-341 sorghum mutant line can be used as forage sorghum because it produces high biomass and relatively low fiber content. The G-5 mutant line can be projected as an alternative energy source due to its high stem sugar content. Keywords: agronomy, fiber, mutant, sorghum
Sorghum, green forage is well adapted to semiarid zones to feed livestock under saline regimes. In present study, structural fibrous fractions were evaluated in two sorghum genotypes viz. G-46 and S�713 under different salinity treatments (6, 8 dS/m) to quantify their values. Structural carbohydrate concentrations varied among genotypes and salinity levels. As the salinity level increased, there is reduction of all cell wall components. The cell wall constituents (NDF, ADF, HC, cellulose, lignin) exhibited upward trend with the plant maturity. The NDF content varied from 67.05 to 48.87 % with a relative mean value of 57.96% and at 95 DAS 59.65-76.02 %. Maximum ADF content was observed at maturity stage with a mean value of 40.82%. A significant difference was observed between different growth stages. For total lignin content, the reduction varies from 8.09-6.17 % with a mean value of 5.59 % at 35 DAS. With advancement of maturity, amount of lignin content increased with a mean value of 7.31%. Cellulose and hemicellulose content ranged from 38.09-27.07%, 29.04-24.97 % with mean values of 28.58 and 23.92 %, respectively. Overall, G-46 genotype performed better at all salinity levels and possessed maximum structural fiber fraction and might be a used in future breeding programmes to improve the fiber fractions.
In the present study 50 different samples of Sorghum fodder grown in Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradeshwere evaluated for their chemical composition (DM, crude protein, total ash, NDF, ADF, ADL, cellulose, silica and hemicellulose). The dry matter content varied from 11.82 to 38.19 with a relative mean value of 26.30 ± 0.50 per cent on DM basis. The mean crude protein content was 12.42 ± 0.47 per cent and exhibited a range of 15.95 per cent. The total ash content varied from 6.15 to 13.08 with a relative mean value of 9.18 ± 0.21 per cent. The per cent cell wall constituents were in the range of 70.13 to 82.19(NDF), 47.87 to 78.86(ADF), 1.32 to 22.18(ADL), 13.85 to 45.57 (cellulose), 0.33 to 8.33 (silica), and 0.34 to 28.38 (hemicellulose) and the mean values were 76.99 ± 0.41, 68.78 ± 0.86, 8.39 ± 0.58, 33.23 ± 0.71, 3.10 ± 0.21, 8.20 ± 0.79 per cent, respectively for NDF, ADF, ADL, cellulose, silica and hemicellulose. From this study it was concluded that Sorghum fodder was nutritionally superior cereal fodder for livestock in scarce rainfall areas.
Brown midrib sorghum (BMR) is a potential crop as forage because of lower lignin content than that of non-BMR sorghum. The aim of this research was to observe the growth and production of brown midrib sorghum mutant lines at different harvest times. This research was conducted at SEAMEO BIOTROP, Bogor, Indonesia using factorial in completely randomized block design (7 × 3) with three replicates. The first factor was the BMR sorghum mutant lines of Patir 3.1 (non-BMR/control), Patir 3.2, Patir 3.3, Patir 3.4, Patir 3.5, Patir 3.6 and Patir 3.7, the second factor was the harvest times (flowering, soft and hard dough phases). Measurement on agronomic parameters were fresh and dry matter biomass production, plant height, stem diameter, leaf width length and ratio of leaves, stems and panicles. While nutrient parameters were crude protein, crude fiber, ash dan crude fat production. Analysis of variance followed by Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was done. The results showed that the BMR of P 3.7 and P 3.2 produced the highest fresh and dry matter production among the BMRs, but their dry matter production were lower than P 3.1 (control). Harvesting at hard dough phase produce the highest fresh and dry matter production and as well as produced the highest crude protein, ash and crude fat production (p<0.01).
Two years research was conducted to study comprehensively the effect of different row spacing on biomass yield and chemical composition of different sorghum cultivars under field conditions in Germany. Three row spacing (75 cm, 37.5 cm, double rows 75 cm apart with strip rows of 10-15 cm) and two cultivars (Goliath (S. bicolor × S. bicolor), Bovital (S. bicolor × S. sudanense)) were included in 2008, while the same row spacings and five cultivars (Goliath, Bovital, Aron (S. bicolor), Rona 1 (S. bicolor), Akklimat (S. sudanense)) were tested in 2009. In 2008 the leaf area index (LAI) difference between the tested cultivars was significant only after 90 days following germination when Bovital reached higher LAI than Goliath. Among all five tested cultivars in 2009 the lowest LAI was observed for Akklimat at all three measuring dates. The narrow row space of 37.5 cm led to increased LAI while the wider row spacing caused a significant decrease of the number of tillers/m 2 in both years. Dry matter yield of sorghum ranged in both experimental years from min. 10.10 t DM/ha (cv. Akklimat 2009) to max. 19.72 t DM/ha (cv. Goliath 2008). Row spacing had no clear effect on the dry matter yield in 2008 whereas in 2009 double rows of 75 cm and narrow row spacing (37.5 cm) led to significantly higher biomass yield than wide row spacing of 75 cm. Effects of row spacing were inverse between years regarding crude protein concentration. Cv. Rona 1 accumulated highest values of sugar concentration (18.7%) and together with cv. Aron lowest values for neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL) concentration compared with other cultivars.
Two experiments were conducted in two consecutive years. Exp. 1 (2008) was aimed at examining the effects of fertilizing three 1-ha fields with fresh dairy manure that was either weed contaminated (CM) or non-contaminated (NCM), as compared to chemical fertilization (CF). Five 10-m2 subplots in each field treatment were analyzed for yield, composition, and in vitro digestibility of forage mass, wheat and weed plants, and changes in soil properties. Higher forage wheat yields were obtained in the CM and NCM treatments (9.45 and 9.41t dry matter (DM)/ha, respectively) than in the CF treatment (7.56tDM/ha, P
The objective of this study was to examine the effect of the ensilage process on yield, composition and in vitro digestibility of three new forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) varieties: Silobuster, Supersile 20, and the brown-midrib hybrid BMR-101. The commercial forage sorghum FS-5 was used as reference variety. Varieties were irrigated during summer with 242mm water and harvested at their soft dough (SD) stage. All varieties were tall (>2.5m), and their dry matter (DM) content at harvest was similar (270–280g DM/kg green forage). FS-5 and BMR-101 contained higher proportion of heads on the account of lower proportion of leaves in FS-5, and stems in BMR-101. In all varieties the leaves tended to contain more neutral detergent fiber (aNDFom) and were characterized by lower DM digestibility as compared with the stems and heads organs. Silobuster and BMR-101 suffered from high lodging (43–65%), whereas FS-5 and Supersile 20 were characterized by moderated levels of lodging (27–30%) at harvest. Dry matter yield of the green forage was similar (15.3–16.5t/ha) in all varieties. The ensilage of all varieties in glass silos resulted in moderated DM losses (
Changes in the response of short (Tal) and tall (FS-5) types of forage sorghum varieties to irrigation level during summer and subsequent fall growth were measured with respect to crop yield, assimilate partitioning, chemical composition and digestibility. The digestibility by sheep of silages made from Tal or FS-5 plants grown for summer and fall harvests was also investigated. During summer cycle, FS-5 plants attained maximal height of 3.2m and stem diameter of 2–2.1cm, whereas the upper height of Tal plants was lower (1.7–1.8m, P
This study examines the yield, composition, digestibility and ensiling properties of the new sorghum brown-midrib hybrid BMR-101. The commercial forage sorghum FS-5 was used as a reference variety. Forages were grown in a typical Mediterranean climate in five replicate plots, irrigated with 250mm water, combine harvested at the soft dough stage and ensiled under both laboratory and commercial conditions. Both varieties were tall (>2.0m). The dry matter (DM) content at harvest of FS-5 was higher than that of BMR-101 (296g/kgforage versus 255g/kgforage, P
The effect of growth stage and re-growth on the nutritional and ensilage characteristics of two new sorghum hybrids, BMR-101 and Silobuster, and one commercial variety, FS-5, was examined in this study. Varieties were sampled during the summer at the early heading (EH) stage and were harvested at the soft dough (SD) stage. Additional irrigation enabled autumn re-growth and a second harvest. Plants of FS-5 and BMR-101 were resistant to lodging at EH. However, BMR-101 and Silobuster suffered from high lodging at the SD stage of the summer harvest. Dry matter (DM) content of FS-5 and BMR-101 at EH was below 250 g kg−1. DM yields of the varieties were similar at the summer harvest and higher than their respective re-growth cuts. Ensilage DM losses were moderate and similar across varieties. Hemicellulose of SD plants was partly solubilised and most of the water-soluble carbohydrate fermented, yielding lactic acid, ethanol and volatile fatty acids (VFA), and a pH < 4. In vitro DM digestibility of varieties was similar in summer silages, but lower in the respective re-growth silages of FS-5 and BMR-101, reflecting the higher content of neutral detergent fibre and lignin in the re-growth silages. The summer plus re-growth cumulative yields of digestible DM of the respective FS-5, Silobuster and BMR-101 silages were 14.7, 16.6 and 14.5 t ha−1. The commercial variety, FS-5, may have some advantage over BMR-101 and Silobuster owing to its relative resistance to lodging in addition to its high yield and good ensilage properties. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
The effect of different harvesting times on yield and some silage quality of maize, sorghum and sorghum׳udangrass hybrids grown as in a split plot design with 3 replicates during second crop in semi arid condition were evaluated. In this research, whole plant silage chemical composition and DM digestibilities on different times, measured in vivo were determined. For this purpose, 2 maize (DK 711, TTM 815), 2 sorghum (Sucro sorgo 506, FS 5) and 2 sorghum-sudangrass hybrids (P 988, Grazer N2) cultivars were harvested at 3 different maturity stages (mid-flowering-MF, milkline-ML and hard dough-HD). The chopped materials were ensilaged in 10 L anaerobic jars, for 60 days. Silage samples were dried (CP, FP, pH, ADF, NDF contents were measured) and incubated in fistulated 3 Holstein Friesian heifers for determining dry matter digestibility. Significant differences were found between plant cultivars and harvesting stages for DM yields, CP, DM and WSC. The dry matter yields varied between 12654.2 and 25340.1 kg ha 1. The highest dry matter yield was obtained from Sucro Sorgo 506 with ML and HD. Dry matter content of silages were changed from 20.63% (in silage sorghum cv. FS 5) to 27.36% (in sorghum-sudangrass hybrids cv. Grazer N2), pH (3.84 in FS 5 and 3.98 in TTM 815), Fleig point (FP) (90.87 in TTM 815 and 104.6 in Grazer N2 ), Crude Protein (CP) was 3.92% in Grazer N2 and 6.64% in FS 5, ADF was 44.56% in DK 711 and 49.33% in SS 506, NDF was 59.56% in DK 711 and 65.70% in P 988, whereas in vivo DM digestibility at 12 h was 32.82% in SS 506 and 38.91% in TTM 815. Crop maturity increased satistically significantly, silage DM varied from 20.43-25.92% and in vivo digestibility of DM at 12 h varied from 32.56-37.66%, however significantly decreased. ADF decreased from 50.17-42.56%, NDF decreased from 64.71-59.62%), WSC (Water Soluble Carbohyrates) increased from (24.59-30.24%). CP decreased from 5.59-5.05%. pH was between 3.78-4.10 and Fleig point was between 94.66-97.58. These values were not changed statistically, when crop maturity increased. Incubation periods were 0, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h for determining dry matter digestibility by using nylon bag technique. Silage NDF values were decreased from flowering to milkline stages. It was concluded that silages in vivo DM digestibility were increased with maturity at 12 h rumen incubation.
Genotypes (10) of maize (IG 96-2, -3, -4, -5, -6, -7, -11, -13, -14 and -15) were grown under uniform agronomic and soil conditions. Leaf and stem fractions were separated for each genotype and compared for chemical constituents, IVDMD and in-sacco DM, NDF and ADF disappearance. Leaf had double CP contents than stem fraction among the different genotypes. The CP contents varied from 3.72 to 12.82% in leaf and stem fractions. Organic matter, lignin and NDF, ash contents were higher in stem and leaf fractions, respectively. Leaf showed 8-10 units higher (P<0.05) IVDMD and IVOMD than stem fraction among the tested genotypes. Average IVDMD values were 66.34±0.33 in leaf vis-a-vis 57.54±0.66% in stem fraction. Within genotypes in-sacco disappearance of dry matter, NDF and ADF were significantly (P<0.05) higher in leaf than that in stem fraction. The present in-sacco NDF and ADF disappearance ranged from 47.67 to 57.88% in leaf against 41.69 to 47.90 and 38.40 to 41.15% in stem fraction, respectively. Both fractions of IG 96-7 maize genotypes had significantly (P<0.05) higher IVDMD and in-sacco dry matter disappearance than other tested genotypes, while IG 96-7 maize genotypes had significantly (P<0.05) higher IVDMD and in-sacco dry matter disappearance than other tested genotypes, while IG 96-5 had the lowest (P<0.05) values for IVDMD and in-sacco dry matter disappearance. The study revealed that maize genotypes IG 96-6, -7 and -14 are relatively superior in protein and dry matter digestibility than other tested genotypes. The selected accessions will be utilized further in judicious breeding programme.
The effect of maturity stage on the yield of some forage components and on the chemical composition and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of forage sorghum, was investigated. Also the effect of various preservation methods on the chemical composition and IVDMD of forage sorghum harvested at the different maturity stages, was studied. Yield of forage dry matter (DM) and in vitro digestible dry matter (IVDDM) was maximal when plants were harvested at the bloom stage while crude protein (CP) yield was maximal at both the pipe and bloom stages. The chemical composition and IVDMD indicated that the quality of fresh plant material harvested at the pipe stage (IVDMD = 674 g kg−1 DM; CP = 145 g kg−1 DM) was higher than that of plant material harvested at the ripe stage (IVDMD = 580 g kg−1 DM; CP = 84 g kg−1 DM) while the quality at the ripe stage tended to be lower than that of plant material harvested at the bloom stage (IVDMD = 611 g kg−1 DM; CP = 94 g kg−1 DM). Preservation of forage sorghum by means of hay-making and ensiling with formalin led to some deterioration in forage quality. Forage quality of plant material naturally ensiled at the ripe and bloom stages, however, was largely maintained. These silages also reflected favourable fermentation properties. Material naturally ensiled at the pipe stage, however, tended to be clostridial. Ensiling with formic acid caused a marked restriction in fermentation activity accompanied by a tendency to improve energy-related forage qualities. Ensiling plant material with formic acid plus formalin at the pipe stage resulted in improved fermentation properties compared with material naturally ensiled. The results in total suggest that ensiling with formic acid at the bloom stage may be an optimum combination of stage of ensiling and method of preservation, resulting in effective preservation of a maximum amount of nutrients per hectare.
Tropical corn silage was compared with sorghum silage as a basal forage in the diets of high producing dairy cows. Sorghum and tropical corn silages were each included in place of ground corn at incremental concentrations in the experimental diets. Eight separate diets were fed, four diets containing each silage ranging in forage neutral detergent fiber (NDF) from approximately 25 to 31% and ranging in total NDF from approximately 41 to 45%. Diets were arranged in a 2 x 4 factorial design and were fed to lactating cows (n = 24; pretrial mean milk production = 39 kg/d; body weight = 656 kg; and days in milk = 81). As concentrations of dietary NDF increased, intake and milk production decreased linearly. The impact of dietary NDF on intake was greater for diets based on tropical corn silage than for diets based on sorghum silage. Energy intake and milk production were reduced, but cows consumed more fiber when challenged with higher dietary concentrations of fiber. The in vitro rate and extent of digestion of dietary samples were correlated with intake response. The rate of in vitro fiber digestion was slower for samples that contained tropical corn silage than for samples that contained sorghum silage. In vivo digestibility measurements were influenced by intake and dietary composition. Results of this trial indicated that sorghum silage can have equal or slightly greater nutritional value than tropical corn silage when these forages are fed at equal concentrations of dietary fiber.
Drought is a major abiotic stress factor limiting crop production. Identification of genetic factors involved in plant responses to drought stress will provide a solid foundation to improve drought resistance. Sorghum is well adapted to hot dry environments and regarded as a model for studying drought resistance among the grasses. Significant progress in genome mapping of this crop has also been made. In sorghum, rapid premature leaf death generally occurs when water is limited during the grain filling period. Premature leaf senescence, in turn, leads to charcoal rot, stalk lodging, and significant yield loss. More than 80% of commercial sorghum hybrids in the United States are grown under non-irrigated conditions and although most of them have pre-flowering drought resistance, many do not have any significant post-flowering drought resistance. Stay-green is one form of drought resistance mechanism, which gives sorghum resistance to premature senescence under soil moisture stress during the post-flowering period. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) studies with recombinant inbred lines (RILs) and near-isogenic lines (NILs) identified several genomic regions associated with resistance to pre-flowering and post-flowering drought stress. We have identified four genomic regions associated with the stay-green trait using a RIL population developed from B35 x Tx7000. These four major stay-green QTLs were consistently identified in all field trials and accounted for 53.5% of the phenotypic variance. We review the progress in mapping stay-green QTLs as a component of drought resistance in sorghum. The molecular genetic dissection of the QTLs affecting stay-green will provide further opportunities to elucidate the underlying physiological mechanisms involved in drought resistance in sorghum and other grasses.
Hybrid selection strongly influent es corn (Zea mays L.) forage production. Limited forage production and quality information exists for leafy and transgenic hybrids [Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and herbicide resistant]. We compared dry matter (DM) yield, forage quality, and estimated milk yields of these and brown midrib hybrids with dual-purpose hybrids fur 3 yr at harvest densities of 66 000 and 84 000 plants ha(-1). Transgenic hybrids had no effect on DM and milk yields, so we do not recommend Bt hybrids under conditions of low infestation of European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis Hubner), Leafy hybrids had similar DM and milk yields as hybrids of similar maturity. Brown midrib hybrids, which had DM yields that were about 20% less than those of hybrids of similar maturity, had 40 to 80 g kg(-1) greater in vitro true digestibility (IVTD) and 70 to 200 g kg(-1) greater neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility. Brown midrib hybrids had the greatest or least milk yields among hybrids, depending on hybrid and year. Leafy and brown midrib hybrids mostly had low harvest index (HI) values. which had strong negative correlations with NDF in all years (-0.71, -0.44, and -0.90). Brown midrib hybrids had high NDF digestibility, which had strong positive correlations with IVTD (0.80, 0.88, and 0.86), Currently, we do not recommend brown midrib hybrids because of inconsistent milk yields and high seed costs. Development of brown midrib and leafy hybrids with greater HI values should result in excellent forage hybrids.
Forage sorghum was evaluated at different growth stages at Shambat, Sudan, to establish a proper cutting time for optimum yield and nutritive value. The fresh forage yield increased with the crop age till the maturity, but the difference was not significant for the late growth stages. Per cent crude protein decreased with age and the differences were significantly higher for vegetative and ear initiation than late stages of growth. The interception between crude protein yield and fresh forage yield, at the milk stage, showed the best indication for economically equating quantity and quality. The tenth week cutting was the best compensation. Crude protein yield reached the maximum at this stage. Similarly, the highest per cent of reducing sugars and total sugars were obtained at the tenth week (milk stage).
The ability of natural silage microflora to degrade and utilize indigenous and extraneous pectic materials during the ensilage of ryegrass was assessed in 2 liter laboratory glass silos. The treatments consisted of ryegrass wilted to 24% (R) and 32% (W) dry matter (DM) and three pectic treatments applied to (R) at approximately 10% of the total DM (R + pectin, R + polygalacturonic acid and R + galacturonic acid). All silages were of a good quality, as judged from visual and analytical evaluation. Pectin, either indigenous or extraneous, was not degraded, or was hardly degraded, by the natural silage microflora. Free galacturonic acid was markedly degraded and utilized, but its fermentation did not result in a higher concentration of preserving acids.
After a series of hot, dry years in the late 1980s a study was conducted to assess the suitability and yield stability of forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench.) in southern Manitoba. The effects of genotype and environment on DM yield of seven forage sorghum genotypes were evaluated (1990-1992) in six different environments. Genotype, environment and genotype x environment accounted for 3.9% (P < 0.0001), 84.8% (P < 0.0001) and 3.3% (P < 0.001) of the total variation in DM yield, respectively. The fact that environment accounted for most of the variability in DM yield and that relative rankings of varieties differed across environments indicated that yield was unstable. Forage sorghum produced acceptable DM yield only in years which were warmer (> 2700 CHU) than average (2200 -2600 CHU) for southern Manitoba. Forage sorghum is not recommended for southern Manitoba unless the climate warms to where 2700 CHU are consistently accumulated during the growing season.
Two varieties of forage sorghum, low grain Dekalb FS‐5 (FS) and higher grain Pioneer 947 (GS) were harvested at the milk and dough stages of maturity respectively. Each variety was ensiled separately and as mixtures under laboratory conditions. The mixtures comprised FS.GS at ratios of 3:1 and 1:1 respectively. At the milk stage the FS had a dry matter (DM) content of 338 g kg and water‐soluble carbohydrates (WSC) content of 120 g kg, as compared with 389 g kg and 63 g kg, respectively for the GS. At the dough stage, these contents were 374 g kg and 123 g kg for the FS, and 520 g kg and 29 g kg for the GS, respectively. At the dough stage the GS had higher neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) contents than FS (592 g kg and 379 g kg vs. 533 g kg and 339 g kg DM, respectively). In the silage harvested at milk stage, the pH of FS alone decreased most slowly, whereas at the dough stage the pH of the GS remained highest. In mixtures the pH decline accelerated with an increasing proportion of FS. Following harvest at the milk stage the 3:1 (FS:GS) had the best ensiling characteristics, whereas following at the dough stage the 1:1 mixture provided the most stable silage. Rumen degradability of the silage of GS was higher than that of the FS silage, especially for material harvested at dough stage of maturity (59.2 g kg vs. 50.9 g kg). Mixing FS with GS at the ensiling increased the digestibility of the resulting silage as compared with FS alone.
The variation among 49 F 1 forage sorghum [ Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] hybrids from a 7 ✕ 7 cross‐classified design was explored in 1979 and 1980 for the following traits: dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), in vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL). Differences were found among hybrids for all traits. Parental means for males generally had a wider range of variation than for females. The means of hybrids involving the male parent, ‘White Collier’, were highest in IVDMD, and lowest in NDF, ADF, and ADL.
IVDMD was the only trait that showed significant differences among hybrids averaged over both males and females. General combining ability (GCA) effects were more important than specific combining ability effects.
Our results suggest that the most rapid way to improve forage sorghum quality would be by improving IVDMD. Significant differences among hybrids averaged over both male and female parents were shown for this trait; it was affected relatively little by year effects and exhibited high GCA effects.
Two field experiments were conducted on Lexington silt loam soil (fine-silty, mixed, thermic Typic Paleudalf) to identify a harvest regime that would improve the nutritive value of ensiled whole-plant sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] while maintaining silage yield. In a 1-yr preliminary study, first-cut sorghum was harvested at mid-vegetative, late-vegetative, boot, bloom, and hard-dough stages of maturity. Regrowth was harvested in late August. In a 2-yr experiment, yield, ensiling losses, intake, and in vivo apparent digestibility of vegetative sorghum (initial and ratoon cute wilted 24 h) were compared with direct cut hard-dough-stage sorghum. Forages were stored in 1.8-Mg-capacity (fresh wt.) experimental silos and, upon opening, were fed to lambs (Ovis aries}. Results from the preliminary experiment indicated that dry matter (DM) yield of first-cut sorghum was greatest at the hard-dough stage; however, nutritional value was greatest for the mid-vegetative stage. Maximum yield for the combined harvests was obtained when first harvest was made at boot stage. The 2-yr experiment average DM yields were 7.3 Mg ha⁻¹ for combined initial (mid-vegetative stage) and ratoon crops, compared with 6.7 Mg ha⁻¹ for the single hard-dough-stage harvest. Ensiling fosses did not differ with harvest regime. Vegetative sorghum was more digestible than sorghum harvested at the hard-dough stage (670 vs. 570 g kg⁻¹). These studies suggest that sorghum harvested twice per season (with wilting) will produce a higher quality silage than a single hard-dough stage cutting, without yield reduction
Approved for publication by the Director of the LAES as Manuscript no. 94-88-8049.
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Reduced lignin concentrations found in brown midrib (bmr) mutants of sorghum, Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench., have great potential for increasing the in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of sorghum forage. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of five bmr mutants on IVDMD, lignin concentration and total sugars of young vegetative forage that would be used for grazing or hay.
Forage from bmr 12 and bmr 18 harvested 4 weeks after planting was significantly higher in IVDMD than their normal counterparts in each of the 3 years tested. Three other mutants were not consistently higher in IVDMD indicating a possible environmental interaction. Total reducing and non-reducing sugars were not related to IVDMD and the bmr mutants did not have a significantly different total sugar concentration than normal types. Four weeks after planting, IVDMD of bmr 12 forage was 7.2 and 5.6 percentage units higher than normal forage for leaves and stems, respectively. The differences observed for the bmr gene should lead to significant improvement in animal performance.
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compared with silage from a normal counterpart (Oba and Allen, 1999). Hybrid selection strongly influences corn (Zea mays L.) forage Compared with normal hybrids, leafy hybrids contain production. Limited forage production and quality information exists for leafy and transgenic hybrids (Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and herbi- additional leaves above the ear, which should increase cide resistant). We compared dry matter (DM) yield, forage quality, stover digestibility because leaves are more digestible and estimated milk yields of these and brown midrib hybrids with than stalks. Dwyer et al. (1998) reported that leafy hy- dual-purpose hybrids for 3 yr at harvest densities of 66 000 and 84 000 brids had lower harvest index (HI) values but more plants ha 21 . Transgenic hybrids had no effect on DM and milk yields, digestible stover above the ear compared with normal so we do not recommend Bt hybrids under conditions of low infesta- hybrids. Kuehn et al. (1998) reported that a leafy hybrid tion of European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis Hubner). Leafy hy- had lower crude protein (CP) concentration but greater brids had similar DM and milk yields as hybrids of similar maturity. digestibility compared with a high-grain hybrid. Bal et Brown midrib hybrids, which had DM yields that were about 20% al. (1998), however, reported that cows fed corn silage less than those of hybrids of similar maturity, had 40 to 80 g kg 21
Chemically induced brown midrib ( bmr ) mutants sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) were characterized with regard to phenotype, fiber composition, and in vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD). The recessive bmr genes produced brown pigmentation in the leaf midrib and stem of mature plants. Pigmentation varied among mutants in intensity, time of appearance, and degree of fading as plants matured.
Stem and leaf samples of mutant and normal plants were analyzed in the laboratory to determine percent cell wall constituents (CWC), acid detergent fiber, (ADF), cellulose, hemicellulose, permanganate lignin (PL), vitro dry matter, and in vitro cell wall constituent disappearance (IVDMD and IVCWCD). Ten of the 13 mutants had significantly less stem lignin than the normal counterparts. Reductions in lignin ranged from 5 to 51% in stems and from 5 to 25% in leaves. In the case of other fiber components, only occasional differences were observed between normal and mutant plants. Increases in IVDMD and IVCWCD of as much as 33 and 43%, respectively, were associated with the presence of bmr genes.
Variation among mutants in lignin concentration probably indicates that several different bmr genes were involved. Similarities between the bmr genes of sorghum and the bm genes of maize ( Zea mays L.) suggest the possible existence of similar genes in other grasses, although their identification may be more complicated because of polyploidy.
Maturity at harvest is a major factor in determining the quality of silage-type sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], and there is evidence of quality differences among hybrids at equivalent growth stages. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of maturity in four height classes of sorghum hybrids and their interactions on dry forage yields and its composition, and to determine quality of heads, leaves, and stalks in terms of in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and acid detergent fiber (ADF). Four hybrids, representing height classes of 4.5, 5.5, 6.5, and 7.5 m, were grown under conventional production practices and harvested at the late milk, early dough, dough, and hard dough stages of grain maturity. Dry matter accumulation in all hybrids remained similar after reaching 24.6%. The shorter hybrids had maximum head percentage earlier in maturity than the taller hybrids. The tallest hybrid had higher stalk percentage later in maturity than did the shorter hybrids. Head IVDMD of the short hybrids with high head percentage remained constant or increased with advancing maturity, while that of the tall hybrid with lower head percentage decreased later in maturity. Stalk IVDMD of the tallest hybrid increased with maturity while the other hybrids decreased with maturity. Stalk ADF of the tallest hybrid decreased with maturity, while that of the other hybrids remained relatively constant. Stalk IVDMD and ADF were negatively correlated (r = −0.63**). These results show the potential for improvement in quality of silage-type sorghum hybrids through selection of breeding lines that maintain high stalk quality late into maturity.
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Five rumen- and abomasum-cannulated cows in mid-lactation were fed ad libitum, for two periods of 21 d each, two isonitrogenous (17% crude protein) total mixed rations (TMR) composed of 45% sorghum-wheat combination, 38% corn silage, 12% soybean meal, urea, buffers and minerals. The two TMRs differed in their sorghum (S): wheat (W) ratio, which was 7030 in S and 3070 in W treatments. Dry matter intake was 17.2 and 16.6 kg d−1 in S and W, respectively. Effect of treatments on the digestibility of carbohydrate constituents and N metabolism was examined.Neutral detergent fiber (NDF)-polysaccharides digestibility in stomachs and the entire gastrointestinal tract (GIT) was significantly higher in S than in W. The digestibility of neutral detergent soluble (NDS)-α-glucans was significantly higher in W than in S. More of NDS-α-glucans escaping ruminal fermentation was digested in the intestine of the S cows as compared with the W cows. The digestibility in entire GIT of total NDS-monosaccharide residues was 93% in W and 86% in S. Digestibility values of total carbohydrates in stomachs (49% and 52%) and entire GIT (79% and 80%) of S and W cows were similar.S and W cows were similar in rumen pH (6.15 and 6.13), rumen volatile fatty acids concentrations (133 and 136 mM) and rumen NH3 concentration (21 and 23 mg per 100 ml). Non-ammonia-N flow through the abomasum (410 and 403 g d−1) and N absorption in the intestine (67%) were also similar in S and W.
Winter-annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum, Lam.) was sown on a sandy soil in the southern Arava desert of Israel and watered by drip irrigation. The experimental design was that of a random block including four plots per treatment of the following three irrigation treatments. (I) Water desalinated by reversed osmosis, aimed at simulating a fresh water source, with a salinity expressed as electrical conductivity (EC) of 1.64 and 1.44dSm−1 (dS: deci siemens). (II) Secondary effluent from the sewage treatment plant of the city of Eilat, EC=3.20 and 4.24dSm−1. (III) Salinated secondary effluent, produced by pumping a concentrated NaCl solution into a particular irrigation system of secondary effluent, EC 6.59 and 9.78, for the 1st and 3rd cuts, respectively. The middle 1-m wide stripe along the entire length of each plot was harvested, weighed and sampled. Freeze-dried ryegrass samples were ground and analyzed. Water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) content was 3–6 times higher in the 1st cut forage than in the 3rd cut, and unlike neutral detergent fiber (NDF) concentration, responded positively to the increase in water salinity. During that period, the plants counteracted the high osmotic pressure of the salinated secondary effluent, by accumulating more WSC, on the expense of cell wall (CW) synthesis. The 3rd cut was apparently not sensitive to water quality with respect to WSC and NDF contents. During that period, osmotic accommodation was attained apparently by accumulating more sodium in the plants. Organic matter yield was negatively affected by salinity, but partly compensated by an increase in the in vitro organic matter digestibility from 70.9 to 83.2 and from 73.5 to 78.1 in the 1st and 3rd cuts, respectively. The NDF monosaccharide composition was unaffected by salinity treatment. The proportion of ferulates involved in bridging was ∼10% in the forage of the 1st cut and raised to 20–40% in that of the 3rd cut. Salinity effect on cinnamic acids content in the 1st cut, followed the pattern of NDF, and was negatively related to digestibility. Such relationship between cinnamic acids content and digestibility was not found in the 3rd cut. The lack of consistency in this regard, poses some doubt as to the role of cinnamic acids as CW degradation obstacles.
A simple technique for the determination in vitro of the dry- or organic-matter digestibility of small (0·5 g) samples of dried forages is described. It involves incubation first with rumen liquor and then with acid pepsin. Using 146 samples of grass, clover and lucerne of known in vivo digestibility (Y), the regression equation Y= 0·99 X– 1·01 (S.E. ± 2·31) has been calculated, where X=in vitro dry-matter digestibility. This technique has been used for the study of the digestibilities of plant breeder's material, of the leaf and stem fractions of herbage and of herbage consumed by animals.
Forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is widely grown for silage in the High Plains region of the U.S.A. The in vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD) dynamics of forage sorghum silage, as influenced by the proportion of ensiled plant parts, were examined. Five mid- to late-season forage hybrids were grown at Manhattan, Kansas, on a Smolan silty clay loam (fine, montmorillonitic, mesic Typic Agriustoll) in 1987. The hybrids were harvested at the hard dough stage of maturity. Grain yields ranged from 4.18 to 5.23 Mg ha−1, and silage yields from 13.72 to 16.45 Mg ha−1. At ensiling, five plants per hybrid were separated into grain, leaf, sheath and stalk parts, chopped, put into nylon bags and ensiled with their respective silages in pilot silos. The distribution of dry matter (g kg−1) among the plant parts was grain 282–413, leaf 208–229, sheath 107–170, stalk 195–401. The pH of each silage and plant part was determined at silo opening. The IVDMDs of plant parts were grain 769, leaf 577, sheath 527 and stalk 608 g kg−1, and ranged from 582 to 617 g kg−1 for silages. For each silage, each plant part was individually increased to unity, then the IVDMD dynamics were plotted. The silages were reconstituted and the IVDMD determined. These ranged from 633 to 677 g kg−1. Statistically, the reconstituted silage IVDMD is the sum of the plant part IVDMD values, but the actual silage IVDMD was not. Regression equations were generated to predict silage IVDMD based on the proportion of plant parts for each hybrid. Grain had the greatest and a positive effect on silage IVDMD dynamics, whereas the sheath component had a negative effect.
Because nutritive value of forages is variable, producers are encouraged to submit samples to commercial feed test labs for chemical analysis. The ADF content can be used to predict the energy content of forage. An appreciation for the analytical variability and the limitations of predicting energy content from ADF is needed to interpret feed analyses reports in terms of animal performance. While predictions of DMI from NDF are poor, the NDF content of forage should be used in diet formulation to ensure adequate fiber. To maximize milk yield and milk fat content, both dietary NDF intake (as a percentage of body weight) and energy intake must be maximized. Diets for high producing dairy cows should be formulated to obtain the highest possible concentration of NDF from forage in the diet, while meeting the requirement for energy density. This can only be achieved by maximizing forage quality.
There is a need to standardize the NDF procedure. Procedures have varied because of the use of different amylases in attempts to remove starch interference. The original Bacillus subtilis enzyme Type IIIA (XIA) no longer is available and has been replaced by a less effective enzyme. For fiber work, a new enzyme has received AOAC approval and is rapidly displacing other amylases in analytical work. This enzyme is available from Sigma (Number A3306; Sigma Chemical Co., St. Louis, MO). The original publications for NDF and ADF (43, 53) and the Agricultural Handbook 379 (14) are obsolete and of historical interest only. Up to date procedures should be followed. Triethylene glycol has replaced 2-ethoxyethanol because of reported toxicity. Considerable development in regard to fiber methods has occurred over the past 5 yr because of a redefinition of dietary fiber for man and monogastric animals that includes lignin and all polysaccharides resistant to mammalian digestive enzymes. In addition to NDF, new improved methods for total dietary fiber and nonstarch polysaccharides including pectin and beta-glucans now are available. The latter are also of interest in rumen fermentation. Unlike starch, their fermentations are like that of cellulose but faster and yield no lactic acid. Physical and biological properties of carbohydrate fractions are more important than their intrinsic composition.
In Experiment 1, 16 Holstein cows were assigned to one of four diets in replicated 4 x 4 Latin squares with 4-wk periods to measure dietary effect on short-term lactational performance. Additionally, 3 fistulated cows were assigned to the same diets in a 3 x 4 Youden square design with 4-wk periods to measure ruminal rate and extent of fiber digestion, fractional passage rate of fiber, ruminal pH, and concentration of volatile fatty acids. Diets comprised 65% of brown midrib (BMR) forage sorghum, standard forage sorghum, alfalfa or corn silages and 35% concentrate. Experiment 2 was conducted with 30 Holstein cows in early lactation to evaluate the same BMR sorghum hybrid in a 10-wk study with 35.3% standard sorghum, BMR sorghum, or corn silages as dietary treatments. Milk production was significantly higher for brown midrib than for standard sorghum in Experiment 1. Ruminal pH and acetate to propionate ratio did not differ among diets. The fractional passage rate of silage was not significantly different among the forages. In situ extent of ruminal fiber digestion was significantly higher for BMR than for standard sorghum, but rate of fiber digestion was not different. Similarly, in Experiment 2, in vitro extent of fiber digestion was significantly higher for BMR sorghum than for standard sorghum. Dry matter intake and body condition score were not significantly different between cows fed BMR and standard sorghum, but cows fed BMR sorghum resulted in long-term milk production greater than cows fed standard sorghum and similar to cows fed corn silage.
A 2-yr study was conducted to determine the chemical composition and digestibility of silages made from forage sorghum, pearl millet, and tropical corn managed to optimize forage quality. Silages were ensiled in upright concrete silos lined with plastic and fed to heifers to determine in vivo apparent digestibility. Samples were collected before and after ensiling to determine ensiling characteristics and forage quality. After ensiling, tropical corn had the greatest dry matter (DM), the lowest crude protein, and the greatest water-soluble concentrations. Tropical corn silage had a pH of 3.96. The pH of forage sorghum silage was 4.09, and pearl millet had a pH of 4.50. Pearl millet had the lowest concentration of preensiled water-soluble carbohydrate, which likely caused the high pH in the silage. There were no differences among the forages in DM loss during ensiling in yr 2. Heifers fed pearl millet silage consumed more DM, but digestible DM intake was not different among the three groups of heifers. The results of this experiment indicate that pearl millet would be less desirable as a crop intended solely for silage production. Both forage sorghum and tropical corn could be grown specifically for ensiling based on DM digestibility. The decision on which crop to use should be based on factors such as production costs, forage yields, and local growing conditions rather than silage quality.
Total mixed rations containing conventional forage sorghum, brown midrib (bmr)-6 forage sorghum, bmr-18 forage sorghum, or corn silage were fed to Holstein dairy cows to determine the effect on lactation, ruminal fermentation, and total tract nutrient digestion. Sixteen multiparous cows (4 ruminally fistulated; 124 d in milk) were assigned to 1 of 4 diets in a replicated Latin square design with 4-wk periods (21-d adaptation and 7 d of collection). Diets consisted of 40% test silage, 10% alfalfa silage, and 50% concentrate mix (dry basis). Acid detergent lignin concentration was reduced by 21 and 13%, respectively, for the bmr-6 and bmr-18 sorghum silages when compared with the conventional sorghum. Dry matter intake was not affected by diet. Production of 4% fat-corrected milk was greatest for cows fed bmr-6 (33.7 kg/d) and corn silage (33.3 kg/d), was least for cows fed the conventional sorghum (29.1 kg/d), and was intermediate for cows fed the bmr-18 sorghum (31.2 kg/d), which did not differ from any other diet. Total tract neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility was greatest for the bmr-6 sorghum (54.4%) and corn silage (54.1%) diets and was lower for the conventional (40.8%) and bmr-18 sorghum (47.9%) diets. In situ extent of NDF digestion was greatest for the bmr-6 sorghum (76.4%) and corn silage (79.0%) diets, least for the conventional sorghum diet (70.4%), and intermediate for the bmr-18 sorghum silage diet (73.1%), which was not different from the other diets. Results of this study indicate that the bmr-6 sorghum hybrid outperformed the conventional sorghum hybrid; the bmr-18 sorghum was intermediate between conventional and bmr-6 in most cases. Additionally, the bmr-6 hybrid resulted in lactational performance equivalent to the corn hybrid used in this study. There are important compositional differences among bmr forage sorghum hybrids that need to be characterized to predict animal response accurately.
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