Quality of Megathyrsus maximus Silage Enriched with Maize Flour and Microbial Inoculation

Abstract

Justification: Under tropical conditions, fermentative limitations of forage may compromise silage quality; therefore, strategies are required to optimize its stability and nutritional composition. Objective: Accordingly, the effect of three inclusion levels of corn meal on the bromatological and fermentative quality of Megathyrsus maximus Jacq. silage was evaluated under conditions of molasses addition and lactic acid bacteria inoculation. Methodology: An experimental design with four treatments was conducted using microsilos (2 kg of forage), adding 6% molasses and 0.6 mL of Silobacter® per ton of fresh matter. Three treatments included corn meal at 10, 15, and 20%, while the fourth served as a control without inclusion. After 35 days of fermentation, pH, crude fiber, crude protein, ether extract, nitrogen-free extract, and ash were determined. Results: The 15% corn meal treatment showed the lowest pH and highest crude protein content, whereas the 20% inclusion significantly increased nitrogen-free extract; the control treatment recorded higher crude fiber and ash values. Conclusion: The addition of corn meal and lactic acid bacteria improved the fermentative process and the nutritional quality of the silage, with the 15% and 20% inclusion levels showing the most favorable responses.