Authors : Ismail Kaya, Yucel Unal and Tarkan Sahin
Abstract: In this study, the effects of certain additives put into grass silage on the both nutrient contents and pH value of silage and digestibility and rumen parameters on rams were examined. Grass silage and grass silage mixed with silage additives of 4% crushed barley, 2% molasses and 1% salt were placed into plastic barrels and their Dry Matter (DM), Organic Matter (OM), ash, Crude Protein (CP), Crude Fiber (CF) and Ether Extract (EE) contents were examined. In addition, silage digestibilities of DM, OM and CP and the effects of silages on ruminal pH, ammonia N and volatile fatty acid contents were also determined. While, DM and ash contents of silage were increased, CP content and ruminal pH were decreased in the silage prepared with silage additives. DM and OM digestibilities have been determined to be significantly higher (p<0.05) in additive silage, as compared to that of the grass silage. CP digestibility has not been changed in both experimental groups. Ruminal pH and isovaleric acid value of the silage prepared with additives were decreased, but propionic acid value was increased (p<0.05). There were no differences on the values of rumen ammonia N, acetic acid, butiric acid and valeric acid. In conclusion, silage additives positively affected the digestibility and rumen fermentation products.
Ismail Kaya, Yucel Unal and Tarkan Sahin, 2009. The Effects of Certain Additives on the Grass Silage Quality, Digestibility and Rumen Parameters in Rams. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 8: 1780-1783.