Cactus Cladodes Opuntia or Nopalea and By-Product of Low Nutritional Value as Solutions to Forage Shortages in Semiarid Areas.

We aimed to evaluate the effect of the cactus cladodes Nopalea cochenillifera (L). Salm-Dyck. (NUB) and cactus cladodes Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. (OUB), both combined with sugarcane bagasse (SB) plus urea, Tifton hay (TH), corn silage (CS), and sorghum silage (SS) plus urea on nutrient intake and digestibility, ruminal dynamics, and parameters. Five male sheep, fistulated in the rumen, were assigned in a 5 × 5 Latin square design. The NUB provided a higher intake of dry matter (DM) and any nutrients than SS. TH provided larger pools of DM and iNDF. The OUB and CS provided a higher DM degradation. CS provided a higher NDF degradation rate. OUB provided a lower ruminal pH. Depending on the collection time, the lowest pH value was estimated at 3.79 h after the morning feeding. There was an interaction between treatments and collection time on VFA concentrations. Due to the high degradation rate, greater energy intake, less change in rumen pH, greater volatile fatty acid production, and feasibility, we recommend using cactus associated with sugarcane bagasse plus urea in sheep diets.

Aerobic stability of tifton 85 silage with and without pre-drying in the sun

The objective of this study was to evaluate pH, ammoniacal nitrogen, and aerobic stability of silage of Tifton 85 grass silage with two dry matter contents at different silos opening times. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a subdivided plots scheme, in which the silages constituted the plots and aerobic exposure times the subplots, with four replications. To verify the aerobic stability of the silages, the temperature and pH were analyzed at seven hours after the silos were opened (1, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, and 144 hours). The pH reached adequate levels for conservation only after 90 days of fermentation for the silages with and without pre-drying in the sun. Ammoniacal nitrogen remained below the recommended limits in both silages. As for the silage temperature, no loss of aerobic stability was observed. However, the observed pH revealed a break instability after 72 hours when the silos were opened at 28 days, with no changes for the remaining silage periods. It is possible to obtain suitable silages from Tifton 85 with or without pre-warming in the sun, however, a minimum fermentation period of 90 days should be adopted. The studied silages presented high aerobic stability, but when kept silage for only 28 days, they should be consumed by the animals within 48 hours after the supply.

Fermentation characteristics and nutritive value of sweet sorghum silage with Paiaguas palisadegrass and Ipypora grass / Características fermentativa e valor nutritivo da silagem de sorgo sacarino com capins Paiaguás e Ipyporã

Ensiling sorghum with tropical forages has been shown to be a promising alternative for ruminant feed production, as this approach improves the quality of the sorghum silage. In this context, the goal of this study was to evaluate the fermentation characteristics and nutritive value of sweet sorghum silage made with different levels of Paiaguas palisadegrass and Ipypora grass. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized 2 x 6 factorial design with four replications. Two forages (Paiaguas palisadegrass and Ipypora grass) were added to sorghum at six levels (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100%), for a total of 48 experimental silos. After 50 days of fermentation, the silos were opened, and the fermentation profile and chemical composition of the silage were analysed. The results showed that the addition of Paiaguas palisade grass and Ipyporagrass to the sorghum silage increased the pH, buffering capacity and NH3-NT of the silage and reduced its dry matter content but did not affect its fermentation characteristics, which remained within an appropriate range. The addition of increasing levels of Paiaguas palisadegrass and Ipypora grass to the sorghum silage increased the crude protein and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of the silage and decreased the fibre fraction (neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre and lignin) and ether extract contents. Adding tropical forages to sorghum silage material at levels above 40% is recommended. Among forage crops, addition of Paiaguas palisadegrass to sorghum silage resulted in higher content of crude protein and IVDMD. Mixed silages can be an effective alternative to improve the quality of forage sorghum silage.(AU)

A cultura do sorgo ensilado com forrageiras tropicais, vem se mostrando alternativa promissora de alimentação para a produção de ruminantes, por proporcionar melhorias na qualidade da silagem. Neste contexto, objetivou-se avaliar as características fermentativa e valor nutritivo da silagem de sorgo sacarino com níveis de capins Paiaguás e Ipyporã. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, em esquema fatorial 2 x 6, sendo duas forrageiras (Paiaguás e Ipyporã) adicionados ao sorgo em seis níveis (0; 20; 40; 60, 80 e 100%), totalizando 48 silos experimentais. Após 50 dias de fermentação, os silos foram abertos para realização das análises do perfil fermentativo e composição bromatológica. Os resultados mostraram que a adição dos capins Paiaguás e Ipyporã na ensilagem de sorgo aumentou o pH, capacidade tampão e N-NH3 e, reduziu os teores de matéria seca, mas não comprometeu as características fermentativas das silagens, ficando dentro do padrão adequado. A adição de níveis crescente de capins Paiaguás e Ipyporã na ensilagem de sorgo aumentou os teores de proteína bruta e digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DIVMS) e diminuiu as frações fibrosas (fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido e lignina) e extrato etéreo, sendo recomendando níveis cima de 40%. Entre as forrageiras, a adição de capim-paiaguás na ensilagem de sorgo apresentou maior teor de proteína bruta e DIVMS. Silagens mistas podem ser uma alternativa eficaz para melhorar a qualidade da silagem exclusiva de sorgo sacarino.(AU)

Dry matter intake and ruminal fermentation parameters in goats fed sugarcane in replacement of corn silage / Parâmetros de ingestão de matéria seca e fermentação ruminal em cabras alimentadas com cana-de-açúcar em substituição à silagem de milho

The trial was conducted with the objective to evaluate fresh sugarcane as a replacement for corn silage on dry matter intake, ruminal parameters (pH, short chain fatty acids, and ammonia nitrogen concentration), and degradation kinetics of forages and concentrate in maintenance adult goats. Four nonlactating ruminally cannulated goats were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design with the replacement of 0, 33, 67, and 100% of corn silage by sugarcane as the independent variable. The substitution of sugarcane for corn silage did not affect dry matter intake, daily weight gain, or ruminal pH. A quadratic effect was observed for ammonia nitrogen concentration with a maximum concentration at 74.43% of sugarcane inclusion, as well as for short chain fatty acids, with maximum concentrations of acetate and butyrate at 0.59 and 32.70% of sugarcane inclusion, respectively. The minimum concentration of propionate was verified on 10.36% of sugarcane inclusion. However, the acetate:propionate ratio linearly decreased with increased sugarcane content. No effect was observed of different rumen environments on forage dry matter and neutral detergent fiber degradability (effective and potential degradability, soluble and potential degradable fractions). Dry matter degradability was 66.79% for sugarcane and 72.62% for corn silage after 96 h of incubation. Neutral detergent fiber was 37.10 and 51.82% for sugarcane and corn silage, respectively, after 96 h of incubation. In conclusion, sugarcane can be used as a replacement for corn silage in maintenance adult goats feed without altering dry matter intake and forage degradability while increasing propionate production.(AU)

O experimento foi conduzido para avaliar a cana-de-açúcar in natura em substituição à silagem de milho no consumo de matéria seca, parâmetros ruminais e cinética de degradação de forragens e concentrado em cabras adultas em mantença. Quatro cabras não lactantes canuladas no rúmen foram utilizadas em um delineamento em quadrado latino 4 × 4 com a substituição de 0, 33, 67 e 100% da silagem de milho por cana-de-açúcar. A substituição da cana-de-açúcar pela silagem de milho não afetou o consumo de matéria seca, o ganho de peso diário e o pH ruminal. Foi observado efeito quadrático para a concentração de nitrogênio amoniacal com concentração máxima de 74,43% de inclusão da cana, e também para ácidos graxos de cadeia curta, com concentrações máximas de acetato e butirato de 0,59 e 32,70% de inclusão da cana, respectivamente. A concentração mínima de propionato foi verificada em 10,36% de inclusão de cana-de-açúcar. No entanto, a relação acetato: propionato diminuiu linearmente com o aumento do teor de cana-de-açúcar. Não foi observado efeito de diferentes ambientes ruminais sobre a degradabilidade da matéria seca da forragem e da fibra em detergente neutro. A degradabilidade da matéria seca foi de 66,79% para a cana-de-açúcar e 72,62% para a silagem de milho após 96 h de incubação. A fibra em detergente neutro foi 37,10 e 51,82% para cana-de-açúcar e silagem de milho, respectivamente, após 96 h de incubação. Em conclusão, a cana-de-açúcar pode ser usada como substituto da silagem de milho na alimentação de cabras adultas de manutenção, sem alterar o consumo de matéria seca e a degradabilidade da forragem, aumentando a produção de propionato.(AU)

Intake and ruminal parameters of goats fed diets supplemented with vegetable oils

The objective of this study was to evaluate the intake and ruminal parameters of goats fed diets supplemented with vegetable oils. Four rumen-cannulated Saanen goats were allocated to four treatments, which consisted of a control diet and diets with the inclusion of 30 g of canola, sunflower, or soybean oils per kilogram of diet dry matter (DM). The experiment lasted 40 days, which were divided into four 10-day periods. Forage intake was estimated using chromium oxide as an external marker, and supplement intake was determined as the difference between the daily amount supplied and orts. Rumen fermentation parameters were evaluated from samples of rumen fluid collected every 2 h, for 12 h. Rumen pH and short-chain fatty acid and ammonia nitrogen concentrations were measured. There was no effect of lipid supplementation on DM intake. Ether extract intake was highest in the treatments with oil inclusion, and the highest acid detergent fiber intake was obtained with the diet containing canola oil. The pH was highest in the group fed soybean oil and responded quadratically to the collection times. Total short-chain fatty acid and acetic acid concentrations also responded quadratically to the collection times. Propionic and butyric acid concentrations and acetic:propionic acid ratio showed a cubic behavior with the increasing collection times. Canola, sunflower, or soybean oils can be included at 30 g/kg of the diet DM as a strategy to increase the energy density of goat diets.

Fermentation characteristics and nutritive value of sweet sorghum silage with Paiaguas palisadegrass and Ipypora grass / Características fermentativa e valor nutritivo da silagem de sorgo sacarino com capins Paiaguás e Ipyporã

Ensiling sorghum with tropical forages has been shown to be a promising alternative for ruminant feed production, as this approach improves the quality of the sorghum silage. In this context, the goal of this study was to evaluate the fermentation characteristics and nutritive value of sweet sorghum silage made with different levels of Paiaguas palisadegrass and Ipypora grass. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized 2 x 6 factorial design with four replications. Two forages (Paiaguas palisadegrass and Ipypora grass) were added to sorghum at six levels (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100%), for a total of 48 experimental silos. After 50 days of fermentation, the silos were opened, and the fermentation profile and chemical composition of the silage were analysed. The results showed that the addition of Paiaguas palisade grass and Ipyporagrass to the sorghum silage increased the pH, buffering capacity and NH3-NT of the silage and reduced its dry matter content but did not affect its fermentation characteristics, which remained within an appropriate range. The addition of increasing levels of Paiaguas palisadegrass and Ipypora grass to the sorghum silage increased the crude protein and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of the silage and decreased the fibre fraction (neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre and lignin) and ether extract contents. Adding tropical forages to sorghum silage material at levels above 40% is recommended. Among forage crops, addition of Paiaguas palisadegrass to sorghum silage resulted in higher content of crude protein and IVDMD. Mixed silages can be an effective alternative to improve the quality of forage sorghum silage.

A cultura do sorgo ensilado com forrageiras tropicais, vem se mostrando alternativa promissora de alimentação para a produção de ruminantes, por proporcionar melhorias na qualidade da silagem. Neste contexto, objetivou-se avaliar as características fermentativa e valor nutritivo da silagem de sorgo sacarino com níveis de capins Paiaguás e Ipyporã. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, em esquema fatorial 2 x 6, sendo duas forrageiras (Paiaguás e Ipyporã) adicionados ao sorgo em seis níveis (0; 20; 40; 60, 80 e 100%), totalizando 48 silos experimentais. Após 50 dias de fermentação, os silos foram abertos para realização das análises do perfil fermentativo e composição bromatológica. Os resultados mostraram que a adição dos capins Paiaguás e Ipyporã na ensilagem de sorgo aumentou o pH, capacidade tampão e N-NH3 e, reduziu os teores de matéria seca, mas não comprometeu as características fermentativas das silagens, ficando dentro do padrão adequado. A adição de níveis crescente de capins Paiaguás e Ipyporã na ensilagem de sorgo aumentou os teores de proteína bruta e digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DIVMS) e diminuiu as frações fibrosas (fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido e lignina) e extrato etéreo, sendo recomendando níveis cima de 40%. Entre as forrageiras, a adição de capim-paiaguás na ensilagem de sorgo apresentou maior teor de proteína bruta e DIVMS. Silagens mistas podem ser uma alternativa eficaz para melhorar a qualidade da silagem exclusiva de sorgo sacarino.

Dry matter intake and ruminal fermentation parameters in goats fed sugarcane in replacement of corn silage / Parâmetros de ingestão de matéria seca e fermentação ruminal em cabras alimentadas com cana-de-açúcar em substituição à silagem de milho

The trial was conducted with the objective to evaluate fresh sugarcane as a replacement for corn silage on dry matter intake, ruminal parameters (pH, short chain fatty acids, and ammonia nitrogen concentration), and degradation kinetics of forages and concentrate in maintenance adult goats. Four nonlactating ruminally cannulated goats were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design with the replacement of 0, 33, 67, and 100% of corn silage by sugarcane as the independent variable. The substitution of sugarcane for corn silage did not affect dry matter intake, daily weight gain, or ruminal pH. A quadratic effect was observed for ammonia nitrogen concentration with a maximum concentration at 74.43% of sugarcane inclusion, as well as for short chain fatty acids, with maximum concentrations of acetate and butyrate at 0.59 and 32.70% of sugarcane inclusion, respectively. The minimum concentration of propionate was verified on 10.36% of sugarcane inclusion. However, the acetate:propionate ratio linearly decreased with increased sugarcane content. No effect was observed of different rumen environments on forage dry matter and neutral detergent fiber degradability (effective and potential degradability, soluble and potential degradable fractions). Dry matter degradability was 66.79% for sugarcane and 72.62% for corn silage after 96 h of incubation. Neutral detergent fiber was 37.10 and 51.82% for sugarcane and corn silage, respectively, after 96 h of incubation. In conclusion, sugarcane can be used as a replacement for corn silage in maintenance adult goats feed without altering dry matter intake and forage degradability while increasing propionate production.

O experimento foi conduzido para avaliar a cana-de-açúcar in natura em substituição à silagem de milho no consumo de matéria seca, parâmetros ruminais e cinética de degradação de forragens e concentrado em cabras adultas em mantença. Quatro cabras não lactantes canuladas no rúmen foram utilizadas em um delineamento em quadrado latino 4 × 4 com a substituição de 0, 33, 67 e 100% da silagem de milho por cana-de-açúcar. A substituição da cana-de-açúcar pela silagem de milho não afetou o consumo de matéria seca, o ganho de peso diário e o pH ruminal. Foi observado efeito quadrático para a concentração de nitrogênio amoniacal com concentração máxima de 74,43% de inclusão da cana, e também para ácidos graxos de cadeia curta, com concentrações máximas de acetato e butirato de 0,59 e 32,70% de inclusão da cana, respectivamente. A concentração mínima de propionato foi verificada em 10,36% de inclusão de cana-de-açúcar. No entanto, a relação acetato: propionato diminuiu linearmente com o aumento do teor de cana-de-açúcar. Não foi observado efeito de diferentes ambientes ruminais sobre a degradabilidade da matéria seca da forragem e da fibra em detergente neutro. A degradabilidade da matéria seca foi de 66,79% para a cana-de-açúcar e 72,62% para a silagem de milho após 96 h de incubação. A fibra em detergente neutro foi 37,10 e 51,82% para cana-de-açúcar e silagem de milho, respectivamente, após 96 h de incubação. Em conclusão, a cana-de-açúcar pode ser usada como substituto da silagem de milho na alimentação de cabras adultas de manutenção, sem alterar o consumo de matéria seca e a degradabilidade da forragem, aumentando a produção de propionato.

Dry matter intake and ruminal fermentation parameters in goats fed sugarcane in replacement of corn silage

ABSTRACT The trial was conducted with the objective to evaluate fresh sugarcane as a replacement for corn silage on dry matter intake, ruminal parameters (pH, short chain fatty acids, and ammonia nitrogen concentration), and degradation kinetics of forages and concentrate in maintenance adult goats. Four nonlactating ruminally cannulated goats were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design with the replacement of 0, 33, 67, and 100% of corn silage by sugarcane as the independent variable. The substitution of sugarcane for corn silage did not affect dry matter intake, daily weight gain, or ruminal pH. A quadratic effect was observed for ammonia nitrogen concentration with a maximum concentration at 74.43% of sugarcane inclusion, as well as for short chain fatty acids, with maximum concentrations of acetate and butyrate at 0.59 and 32.70% of sugarcane inclusion, respectively. The minimum concentration of propionate was verified on 10.36% of sugarcane inclusion. However, the acetate:propionate ratio linearly decreased with increased sugarcane content. No effect was observed of different rumen environments on forage dry matter and neutral detergent fiber degradability (effective and potential degradability, soluble and potential degradable fractions). Dry matter degradability was 66.79% for sugarcane and 72.62% for corn silage after 96 h of incubation. Neutral detergent fiber was 37.10 and 51.82% for sugarcane and corn silage, respectively, after 96 h of incubation. In conclusion, sugarcane can be used as a replacement for corn silage in maintenance adult goats feed without altering dry matter intake and forage degradability while increasing propionate production.

RESUMO O experimento foi conduzido para avaliar a cana-de-açúcar in natura em substituição à silagem de milho no consumo de matéria seca, parâmetros ruminais e cinética de degradação de forragens e concentrado em cabras adultas em mantença. Quatro cabras não lactantes canuladas no rúmen foram utilizadas em um delineamento em quadrado latino 4 × 4 com a substituição de 0, 33, 67 e 100% da silagem de milho por cana-de-açúcar. A substituição da cana-de-açúcar pela silagem de milho não afetou o consumo de matéria seca, o ganho de peso diário e o pH ruminal. Foi observado efeito quadrático para a concentração de nitrogênio amoniacal com concentração máxima de 74,43% de inclusão da cana, e também para ácidos graxos de cadeia curta, com concentrações máximas de acetato e butirato de 0,59 e 32,70% de inclusão da cana, respectivamente. A concentração mínima de propionato foi verificada em 10,36% de inclusão de cana-de-açúcar. No entanto, a relação acetato: propionato diminuiu linearmente com o aumento do teor de cana-de-açúcar. Não foi observado efeito de diferentes ambientes ruminais sobre a degradabilidade da matéria seca da forragem e da fibra em detergente neutro. A degradabilidade da matéria seca foi de 66,79% para a cana-de-açúcar e 72,62% para a silagem de milho após 96 h de incubação. A fibra em detergente neutro foi 37,10 e 51,82% para cana-de-açúcar e silagem de milho, respectivamente, após 96 h de incubação. Em conclusão, a cana-de-açúcar pode ser usada como substituto da silagem de milho na alimentação de cabras adultas de manutenção, sem alterar o consumo de matéria seca e a degradabilidade da forragem, aumentando a produção de propionato.

Chemical composition, aerobic stability, and fermentation pattern of white oat silage wilted with glyphosate / Composição química, estabilidade aeróbia e padrão fermentativo de silagens de aveia branca dessecadas com glifosato

White oat has good nutritional quality but is not an easy forage to ensile due to its high buffer capacity and moisture content at ensiling moment. Therefore, wilting is necessary to offset such negative aspects. However, this process demands skilled workforce and adequate machinery. In this way, chemical desiccation is a promising technology to reduce the steps needed for wilting. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of glyphosate as a chemical desiccant on the nutritional quality, fermentation pattern, losses, and aerobic stability of wilted white oat (Avena sativa) silages. White oat sowing occurred in the first fortnight of May 2013. Desiccant application took place when oat reached milky-dough grain stage (96 days after planting). Glyphosate doses evaluated were 0, 500, 750, 1000, and 1250 mL ha-1. Three days after desiccation, all treatments were ensiled, and the silos were stored for 150 days. A completely randomized design was used, and all statistical procedures were performed by means of Bayesian Inference. No differences were found for lactic acid, but treated-silage pH linearly decreased. The lowest concentration of butyric acid (3.40 mg kg-1) was observed at 900.80 mL ha-1. For ammonia, the highest point (50 g kg-1) occurred at 916.51 mL ha-1. Aerobic stability was not influenced by treatments. Maximum dry matter recovery index (934 g kg-1) was observed at 864.20mL ha-1 glyphosate. Wilted forage from treatments 500 mL ha-1, 750 mL ha-1, and 1000 mL ha-1 had greater dry matter content compared to control (320.1, 326, 301.3, and 270.7 g kg-1 respectively). Hemicellulose linearly decreased and crude protein linearly increased. The lowest concentrations of neutral detergent fiber (642.8 g kg-1) and neutral-detergent insoluble nitrogen (2.30 g kg-1) occurred at doses of 1141.32 mL ha-1 and 829.14 mL ha-1, respectively. In brief, for wilted white oat silage production, harvested at milky-dough grain stage, glyphosate application...(AU)

A aveia branca (Avena sativa) apresenta boa qualidade nutricional, contudo, devido à sua alta capacidade tampão e elevado teor de umidade no momento do corte, acaba por dificultar o processo de conservação como silagem. Dessa forma, a pré-secagem é necessária para compensar os aspectos negativos relacionados à ensilagem da aveia. No entanto, a pré-secagem exige mão-de-obra qualificada bem como maquinário específico. Desta forma, a dessecação química é uma tecnologia promissora, reduzindo as etapas necessárias para a pré-secagem, facilitando o processo. Sendo assim, objetivou-se foi avaliar os efeitos do uso do glifosato na pré-secagem da avia branca sobre a qualidade nutricional, padrão de fermentativo e perdas bem como na estabilidade aeróbia das silagens resultantes. A semeadura de aveia branca ocorreu na primeira quinzena de maio de 2013. A aplicação do dessecante ocorreu quando a aveia atingiu o estágio de grãos leitoso/pastoso (96 dias após o plantio). As doses de glifosato avaliadas foram 0, 500, 750, 1000 e 1250 mL ha-1. Três dias após a dessecação, todos os tratamentos foram ensilados e os silos foram armazenados por 150 dias. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado e todos os procedimentos estatísticos foram realizados por meio da inferência bayesiana. Não foram encontradas diferenças para as concentrações de ácido láctico, no entanto, o pH diminuiu linearmente nas silagens tratadas. A menor concentração de ácido butírico (3,40 mg kg-1) foi observada para a dosem de 900,80 mL ha-1. A maior concentração de amônia (50 g kg-1) foi encontrada na dosem de 916,51 mL ha-1. A estabilidade aeróbica não foi influenciada pelos tratamentos neste estudo. O maior índice de recuperação de matéria seca (934 g kg-1) foi observado para a dosem de 864,20 mL ha-1 de glifosato. As silagens provenientes dos tratamentos 500 mL ha-1, 750 mL ha-1 e 1000 mL ha-1 apresentaram...(AU)

Chemical composition, aerobic stability, and fermentation pattern of white oat silage wilted with glyphosate / Composição química, estabilidade aeróbia e padrão fermentativo de silagens de aveia branca dessecadas com glifosato

White oat has good nutritional quality but is not an easy forage to ensile due to its high buffer capacity and moisture content at ensiling moment. Therefore, wilting is necessary to offset such negative aspects. However, this process demands skilled workforce and adequate machinery. In this way, chemical desiccation is a promising technology to reduce the steps needed for wilting. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of glyphosate as a chemical desiccant on the nutritional quality, fermentation pattern, losses, and aerobic stability of wilted white oat (Avena sativa) silages. White oat sowing occurred in the first fortnight of May 2013. Desiccant application took place when oat reached milky-dough grain stage (96 days after planting). Glyphosate doses evaluated were 0, 500, 750, 1000, and 1250 mL ha-1. Three days after desiccation, all treatments were ensiled, and the silos were stored for 150 days. A completely randomized design was used, and all statistical procedures were performed by means of Bayesian Inference. No differences were found for lactic acid, but treated-silage pH linearly decreased. The lowest concentration of butyric acid (3.40 mg kg-1) was observed at 900.80 mL ha-1. For ammonia, the highest point (50 g kg-1) occurred at 916.51 mL ha-1. Aerobic stability was not influenced by treatments. Maximum dry matter recovery index (934 g kg-1) was observed at 864.20mL ha-1 glyphosate. Wilted forage from treatments 500 mL ha-1, 750 mL ha-1, and 1000 mL ha-1 had greater dry matter content compared to control (320.1, 326, 301.3, and 270.7 g kg-1 respectively). Hemicellulose linearly decreased and crude protein linearly increased. The lowest concentrations of neutral detergent fiber (642.8 g kg-1) and neutral-detergent insoluble nitrogen (2.30 g kg-1) occurred at doses of 1141.32 mL ha-1 and 829.14 mL ha-1, respectively. In brief, for wilted white oat silage production, harvested at milky-dough grain stage, glyphosate application...

A aveia branca (Avena sativa) apresenta boa qualidade nutricional, contudo, devido à sua alta capacidade tampão e elevado teor de umidade no momento do corte, acaba por dificultar o processo de conservação como silagem. Dessa forma, a pré-secagem é necessária para compensar os aspectos negativos relacionados à ensilagem da aveia. No entanto, a pré-secagem exige mão-de-obra qualificada bem como maquinário específico. Desta forma, a dessecação química é uma tecnologia promissora, reduzindo as etapas necessárias para a pré-secagem, facilitando o processo. Sendo assim, objetivou-se foi avaliar os efeitos do uso do glifosato na pré-secagem da avia branca sobre a qualidade nutricional, padrão de fermentativo e perdas bem como na estabilidade aeróbia das silagens resultantes. A semeadura de aveia branca ocorreu na primeira quinzena de maio de 2013. A aplicação do dessecante ocorreu quando a aveia atingiu o estágio de grãos leitoso/pastoso (96 dias após o plantio). As doses de glifosato avaliadas foram 0, 500, 750, 1000 e 1250 mL ha-1. Três dias após a dessecação, todos os tratamentos foram ensilados e os silos foram armazenados por 150 dias. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado e todos os procedimentos estatísticos foram realizados por meio da inferência bayesiana. Não foram encontradas diferenças para as concentrações de ácido láctico, no entanto, o pH diminuiu linearmente nas silagens tratadas. A menor concentração de ácido butírico (3,40 mg kg-1) foi observada para a dosem de 900,80 mL ha-1. A maior concentração de amônia (50 g kg-1) foi encontrada na dosem de 916,51 mL ha-1. A estabilidade aeróbica não foi influenciada pelos tratamentos neste estudo. O maior índice de recuperação de matéria seca (934 g kg-1) foi observado para a dosem de 864,20 mL ha-1 de glifosato. As silagens provenientes dos tratamentos 500 mL ha-1, 750 mL ha-1 e 1000 mL ha-1 apresentaram...

Quality of re-ensiled sorghum silages after prolonged periods of environmental exposure / Qualidade da silagem de sorgo reensilada após prolongados períodos de exposição ao ambiente

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of re-ensiling on the fermentability coefficient (FC), chemical composition and fermentation profile of untreated whole-crop sorghum silage after prolonged periods of environmental exposure. Treatments comprised eight times of exposure to the environment (0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h) and two procedures for conservation (conventional and re-ensiling) in a completely randomized design with two factors and three replicates. Experimental silos made of 12-L plastic buckets were used in trials. Silage nutritive value, fermentation profile, and dry mass (DM) losses were analyzed before and 90 days after re-ensiling. Regression analyses were performed, and ANOVA was used to compare means. The FC was higher than 45 even when the silage was exposed to air for 120 h before re-ensiling (59.2±2.54). Regression equations were fitted to the data with low accuracy (R2 < 0.47). Moreover, we observed that the main effect occurred between before and after re-ensiling, decreasing the contents of DM (42 to 37 %) and water-soluble carbohydrates (7.0 to 5.8 % DM), neutral detergent fiber (60.4 to 55.4 % DM), and acid detergent fiber (49.5 to 33.5 % DM), but increasing those of lactic acid (0.52 to 0.96 % DM) and ammoniacal nitrogen (1.58 to 2.51 % total N). The DM losses were linear with increasing times of air exposure; however, silage nutritive value and fermentation profile showed no disturbing changes for silage conservation and animal feeding.(AU)

O objetivo com este estudo foi avaliar o efeito da reensilagem sobre o coeficiente de fermentação (CF), bromatologia e fermentação de silagens de plantas inteiras de sorgo após períodos de exposição ao ambiente. Os tratamentos corresponderam a oito tempos de exposição ao ambiente (0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 e 120 h) e dois procedimentos de conservação (silagem convencional e reensilada), no delineamento inteiramente casualizado com dois fatores e três repetições, utilizando-se silos experimentais de 12 L. Os silos foram abertos 90 dias após o fechamento e analisados o valor nutritivo, o perfil fermentativo e as perdas de massa seca (MS). Foram ajustadas regressões e a ANOVA foi utilizada para comparação entre médias. O CF foi maior do que 45, mesmo quando a silagem foi exposta ao ambiente por 120 h antes a reensilagem (59,2±2,54). As equações de regressão foram ajustadas com baixa precisão (R2 < 0,47) e foi observado que o principal efeito ocorreu entre os procedimento de conservação e não para os tempos de exposição, reduzindo o conteúdo de MS (42 para 37 %) e carboidratos solúveis em água (7,0 para 5,8 % da MS), fibras em detergente neutro (60,4 para 55,4 % da MS) e ácido (49,5 para 33,5 % da MS), e aumentando os teores de AL (0,52 para 0,96 % da MS) e N-NH3 (1,58 para 2,51 % do N total). As perdas de MS foram lineares com o tempo de exposição ao ambiente, no entanto, não foram observadas mudanças impactantes no valor nutritivo das silagens com o processo de reensilagem.(AU)

Quality of re-ensiled sorghum silages after prolonged periods of environmental exposure / Qualidade da silagem de sorgo reensilada após prolongados períodos de exposição ao ambiente

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of re-ensiling on the fermentability coefficient (FC), chemical composition and fermentation profile of untreated whole-crop sorghum silage after prolonged periods of environmental exposure. Treatments comprised eight times of exposure to the environment (0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h) and two procedures for conservation (conventional and re-ensiling) in a completely randomized design with two factors and three replicates. Experimental silos made of 12-L plastic buckets were used in trials. Silage nutritive value, fermentation profile, and dry mass (DM) losses were analyzed before and 90 days after re-ensiling. Regression analyses were performed, and ANOVA was used to compare means. The FC was higher than 45 even when the silage was exposed to air for 120 h before re-ensiling (59.2±2.54). Regression equations were fitted to the data with low accuracy (R2 < 0.47). Moreover, we observed that the main effect occurred between before and after re-ensiling, decreasing the contents of DM (42 to 37 %) and water-soluble carbohydrates (7.0 to 5.8 % DM), neutral detergent fiber (60.4 to 55.4 % DM), and acid detergent fiber (49.5 to 33.5 % DM), but increasing those of lactic acid (0.52 to 0.96 % DM) and ammoniacal nitrogen (1.58 to 2.51 % total N). The DM losses were linear with increasing times of air exposure; however, silage nutritive value and fermentation profile showed no disturbing changes for silage conservation and animal feeding.

O objetivo com este estudo foi avaliar o efeito da reensilagem sobre o coeficiente de fermentação (CF), bromatologia e fermentação de silagens de plantas inteiras de sorgo após períodos de exposição ao ambiente. Os tratamentos corresponderam a oito tempos de exposição ao ambiente (0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 e 120 h) e dois procedimentos de conservação (silagem convencional e reensilada), no delineamento inteiramente casualizado com dois fatores e três repetições, utilizando-se silos experimentais de 12 L. Os silos foram abertos 90 dias após o fechamento e analisados o valor nutritivo, o perfil fermentativo e as perdas de massa seca (MS). Foram ajustadas regressões e a ANOVA foi utilizada para comparação entre médias. O CF foi maior do que 45, mesmo quando a silagem foi exposta ao ambiente por 120 h antes a reensilagem (59,2±2,54). As equações de regressão foram ajustadas com baixa precisão (R2 < 0,47) e foi observado que o principal efeito ocorreu entre os procedimento de conservação e não para os tempos de exposição, reduzindo o conteúdo de MS (42 para 37 %) e carboidratos solúveis em água (7,0 para 5,8 % da MS), fibras em detergente neutro (60,4 para 55,4 % da MS) e ácido (49,5 para 33,5 % da MS), e aumentando os teores de AL (0,52 para 0,96 % da MS) e N-NH3 (1,58 para 2,51 % do N total). As perdas de MS foram lineares com o tempo de exposição ao ambiente, no entanto, não foram observadas mudanças impactantes no valor nutritivo das silagens com o processo de reensilagem.

Influence of Levels of Dietary Fiber Sources on the Performance, Carcass Traits, Gastrointestinal Tract Development, Fecal Ammonia Nitrogen, and Intestinal Morphology of Broilers

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary fiber source levels on the fecal ammonia nitrogen, growth performance, carcass traits, gastrointestinal tract development, and intestinal morphology of broilers. A total of 420 one-day-old unsexed broiler chicks were individually weighed and randomly divided into 5 groups, each with seven replicates of twelve chicks. Rice hulls (RH) and soybean hulls (SH) were ground through a hammer mill with a 2-mm screen. The RH and SH experimental diets were as follows: 0% (control); 2.5% RH; 2.5% SH; 5% RH; and 5% SH. No significant differences were found in growth performance and fecal ammonia nitrogen among the dietary treatment groups (p>0.05). Compared with the control, the experimental diets with 2.5% SH significantly decreased the wing weight of chickens (p 0.05), while no significant differences in the weight of the other visceral organs were observed. Compared with the control, broilers in the 5% SH group had a longer jejunum and ileum (p 0.05). Feeding the broilers SH and RH had no effect on the villus area and crypt depth of the intestine. Compared with the control, the experimental diet with 2.5% RH significantly increased the duodenal villus height of chickens (p 0.05). These findings suggest that the inclusion of 5% SH in the diets resulted in improved intestinal morphology without negatively affecting growth performance and carcass traits.(AU)

Influence of Levels of Dietary Fiber Sources on the Performance, Carcass Traits, Gastrointestinal Tract Development, Fecal Ammonia Nitrogen, and Intestinal Morphology of Broilers

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary fiber source levels on the fecal ammonia nitrogen, growth performance, carcass traits, gastrointestinal tract development, and intestinal morphology of broilers. A total of 420 one-day-old unsexed broiler chicks were individually weighed and randomly divided into 5 groups, each with seven replicates of twelve chicks. Rice hulls (RH) and soybean hulls (SH) were ground through a hammer mill with a 2-mm screen. The RH and SH experimental diets were as follows: 0% (control); 2.5% RH; 2.5% SH; 5% RH; and 5% SH. No significant differences were found in growth performance and fecal ammonia nitrogen among the dietary treatment groups (p>0.05). Compared with the control, the experimental diets with 2.5% SH significantly decreased the wing weight of chickens (p 0.05), while no significant differences in the weight of the other visceral organs were observed. Compared with the control, broilers in the 5% SH group had a longer jejunum and ileum (p 0.05). Feeding the broilers SH and RH had no effect on the villus area and crypt depth of the intestine. Compared with the control, the experimental diet with 2.5% RH significantly increased the duodenal villus height of chickens (p 0.05). These findings suggest that the inclusion of 5% SH in the diets resulted in improved intestinal morphology without negatively affecting growth performance and carcass traits.

Effect of okara levels on corn grain silage

We ensiled different levels of okara and ground corn to evaluate the effects on the fermentative pattern, aerobic stability, and chemical composition of resulting silages. The experimental design was completely randomized with four replicates per treatment. The okara levels were (dry matter basis): control (without okara) and 200, 300, 400, and 500 g kg−1 okara, with four replicates per treatment. Control silage did not contain okara, but water was added to adjust the moisture content (400 g kg−1 as fed). Mixtures were ensiled in lab-scale silos and stored for 150 days. Compared with the control silage, okara inclusion linearly increased crude protein (from 89.1 to 251 g kg−1 DM), ether extract (from 39.6 to 136 g kg−1 DM), neutral detergent fiber (from 79.9 to 174 g kg−1 DM), acid detergent fiber (from 22.4 to 119 g kg−1 DM), and ash (from 12.2 to 32.4 g kg−1 DM), whereas decreased dry matter content and in vitro dry matter digestibility (from 830 to 730 g kg−1 DM). The use of okara linearly increased lactic acid concentration but also intensified secondary fermentation. On the other hand, aerobic stability of silages increased due to okara inclusion because of the higher amount of short-chain fatty acids, such as butyric and acetic acids, which accumulated during fermentation. Okara inclusion in corn grain silage must be conditioned to the dry matter content at ensiling, but must not exceed 200 g kg−1 on dry matter basis.(AU)

Extruded urea could reduce true protein source in beef cattle diets.

Rumen micro-organisms are capable of producing microbial protein from ammonia and carbon skeleton, and non-protein nitrogen (NPN) may be one of the sources of ammonia. Alternative source of NPN is the slow release of ammonia sources in which the product is the extrusion of starch with urea. This work aimed to determine the effects on nutrient intake, ingestive behaviour, digestibility, nitrogen balance, ruminal pH, rumen ammonia nitrogen, volatile fatty acids (VFA) and blood parameters with increased levels of extruded urea (50, 60, 70 and 80 g/100 kg of body weight [BW]) in beef cattle diet. Four rumen cannulated crossbred steers with initial mean weight of 336 ± 47 kg in a 4 × 4 Latin square design were distributed. Diets were formulated with 400:600 g/kg roughage:concentrate ratio on dry matter based and provided once per day, being used whole corn silage as roughage. There were no effects on nutrient intake (kg/day), ingestive behaviour, apparent digestibility, nitrogen balance, volatile fatty acid (VFA) and blood parameters in extruded urea treatment groups. Similar results were observed on time spent on feeding, rumination and idleness. There were positive linear effects (p = 0.022) on rumen pH in the time of 8 hr after feeding and also on plasma concentration of the extruded urea levels (p = 0.039); whereas a linear negative effect (p = 0.030) was observed on ammonia nitrogen for the collection time of 2 hr after feeding. Increased levels of extruded urea could maintain nutrient intake, digestibility, ingestive behaviour, rumen pH and blood parameters in normal conditions. In conclusion, we recommend the extruded urea use with values up to 80 g/100 kg BW in confined beef cattle that receive balanced diets with 140 g/kg of crude protein.

Does the level of forage neutral detergent fiber affect the ruminal fermentation, digestibility and feeding behavior of goats fed cactus pear?

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of forage neutral detergent fiber (fNDF) levels on the voluntary feed intake, digestibility, ruminal fermentation and feeding behavior of goats fed diets with cactus pear. Five non-lactating ruminally cannulated goats fed ad libitum were randomly assigned to a 5 × 5 Latin square design. Treatments consisted of levels of fNDF at 0, 109, 222, 339 and 463 g/kg of dry matter (DM) in cactus pear-based diets. The intakes of DM and NDF were quadratically affected (p â‰¦ .045) by fNDF levels. Voluntary water intake (VWI) increased linearly as the fNDF levels increased in the diet. The digestibility coefficients of organic matter, NDF and ether extract and total digestible nutrients concentration were quadratically affected (p â‰¦ .048) by fNDF levels. The ruminal pH linearly increased (p = .001) with fNDF levels, ranging from 5.44 to 5.81 for diets containing 0 and 463 g fNDF/kg DM, respectively. The fNDF levels promoted a linear increase (p = .006) in chewing time, linearly decreased (p = .007) resting time and quadratically affected (p = .033) rumination time. The inclusion of fNDF in the diets provided favorable conditions for ruminal function, digestibility and feeding behavior in goats fed diets containing cactus pear.

Protein-energy supplementation for lambs: feed intake, ingestive behavior, rumen parameters and nutrient digestibility / Suplementação proteico-energética para cordeiros: consumo, comportamento ingestivo, parâmetros ruminais e digestibilidade de nutrientes

The study evaluated the effects of dietary protein-energy supplementation on feed intake, ingestive behavior, rumen parameters and nutrient digestibility in lambs. Four castrated lambs with 31.9 kg mean body weight and fistulated rumen were tested. distributed into latin square design (4x4), four treatments were tested over four periods of time: no supplementation (control) or with supplementation at 8, 16 and 24 g kg-1 body weight. The supplement (soybean meal, soybean hulls, ground corn and minerals) was provided with roughage (Tifton Bermudagrass, Cynodon spp., hay), which was offered ad libitum once a day, at 8h00. In treatments receiving 0 (control), 8, 16 and 24 g kg-1 supplementation, dry matter intake was 685.26, 742.86, 842.51 and 1013.33 g day-1, crude protein intake was 80.18, 95.98, 118.64, 150.14 g day-1 and metabolizable energy intake 1.55, 1.91, 2.31 and 2.98 g day-1, respectively. Treatments receiving the highest supplementation levels spent less time with rumination and feeding and rested for longer (P 0.05). Protein-energy supplementation level did not affect rumen parameters. Average rumen pH was 6.3 and rumen ammonia nitrogen 165 mg dL-1; both were affected by sampling time. Supplementation levels until 24 g kg-1 BW improves feed intake and nutrient digestibility linearly and changes ingestive behavior, lowering rumination time without affecting rumen parameters.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da suplementação proteico-energética sobre o consumo, comportamento ingestivo, parâmetros ruminais e digestibilidade de nutrientes em ovinos. Foram utilizados quatro cordeiros castrados, com peso médio de 31,9 kg, fistulados no rúmen. O delineamento foi quadrado latino (4x4), sendo 4 tratamentos e 4 períodos: controle (sem suplementação) e suplementados com 8, 16 e 24 g kg-1 do peso corporal (PC). O volumoso, feno de capim-tifton (Cynodon spp.), foi fornecido à vontade e o suplemento era constituído por farelo de soja, casca de soja, milho moído e minerais. Os alimentos foram fornecidos uma vez ao dia, às 8 horas. Nos tratamentos que receberam 0 (controle), 8, 16 e 24 g kg-1 de suplementação, o consumo de matéria seca foi igual a 685,26; 742,86; 842,51 e 1013,33 g dia-1, o consumo de proteína bruta igual 80,18; 95,98; 118,64; 150,14 g dia-1, o consumo de energia metabolizável igual a 1,55; 1,91; 2,31 e 2,98 para os tratamentos controle, 8, 16 e 24 g kg-1 PC, respectivamente. Maiores níveis de suplementação proporcionaram menor tempo gasto com ruminação e alimentação e maior período em ócio (P 0.05). Não houve efeito do nível de suplementação proteico-energética sobre os parâmetros ruminais. O pH ruminal e o nitrogênio amoniacal ruminal apresentaram médias de 6,3 e 16,5 mg dL-1, respectivamente, e foram influenciados pelo tempo de coleta. A suplementação até 24 g kg-1 PC favorece linearmente a melhora do consumo e digestibilidade dosnutrientes e altera o comportamento ingestivo com menor tempo gasto com ruminação sem alteraçãodos parâmetros ruminais.(AU)

Protein-energy supplementation for lambs: feed intake, ingestive behavior, rumen parameters and nutrient digestibility / Suplementação proteico-energética para cordeiros: consumo, comportamento ingestivo, parâmetros ruminais e digestibilidade de nutrientes

The study evaluated the effects of dietary protein-energy supplementation on feed intake, ingestive behavior, rumen parameters and nutrient digestibility in lambs. Four castrated lambs with 31.9 kg mean body weight and fistulated rumen were tested. distributed into latin square design (4x4), four treatments were tested over four periods of time: no supplementation (control) or with supplementation at 8, 16 and 24 g kg-1 body weight. The supplement (soybean meal, soybean hulls, ground corn and minerals) was provided with roughage (Tifton Bermudagrass, Cynodon spp., hay), which was offered ad libitum once a day, at 8h00. In treatments receiving 0 (control), 8, 16 and 24 g kg-1 supplementation, dry matter intake was 685.26, 742.86, 842.51 and 1013.33 g day-1, crude protein intake was 80.18, 95.98, 118.64, 150.14 g day-1 and metabolizable energy intake 1.55, 1.91, 2.31 and 2.98 g day-1, respectively. Treatments receiving the highest supplementation levels spent less time with rumination and feeding and rested for longer (P 0.05). Protein-energy supplementation level did not affect rumen parameters. Average rumen pH was 6.3 and rumen ammonia nitrogen 165 mg dL-1; both were affected by sampling time. Supplementation levels until 24 g kg-1 BW improves feed intake and nutrient digestibility linearly and changes ingestive behavior, lowering rumination time without affecting rumen parameters.

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da suplementação proteico-energética sobre o consumo, comportamento ingestivo, parâmetros ruminais e digestibilidade de nutrientes em ovinos. Foram utilizados quatro cordeiros castrados, com peso médio de 31,9 kg, fistulados no rúmen. O delineamento foi quadrado latino (4x4), sendo 4 tratamentos e 4 períodos: controle (sem suplementação) e suplementados com 8, 16 e 24 g kg-1 do peso corporal (PC). O volumoso, feno de capim-tifton (Cynodon spp.), foi fornecido à vontade e o suplemento era constituído por farelo de soja, casca de soja, milho moído e minerais. Os alimentos foram fornecidos uma vez ao dia, às 8 horas. Nos tratamentos que receberam 0 (controle), 8, 16 e 24 g kg-1 de suplementação, o consumo de matéria seca foi igual a 685,26; 742,86; 842,51 e 1013,33 g dia-1, o consumo de proteína bruta igual 80,18; 95,98; 118,64; 150,14 g dia-1, o consumo de energia metabolizável igual a 1,55; 1,91; 2,31 e 2,98 para os tratamentos controle, 8, 16 e 24 g kg-1 PC, respectivamente. Maiores níveis de suplementação proporcionaram menor tempo gasto com ruminação e alimentação e maior período em ócio (P 0.05). Não houve efeito do nível de suplementação proteico-energética sobre os parâmetros ruminais. O pH ruminal e o nitrogênio amoniacal ruminal apresentaram médias de 6,3 e 16,5 mg dL-1, respectivamente, e foram influenciados pelo tempo de coleta. A suplementação até 24 g kg-1 PC favorece linearmente a melhora do consumo e digestibilidade dosnutrientes e altera o comportamento ingestivo com menor tempo gasto com ruminação sem alteraçãodos parâmetros ruminais.

Fermentation characteristics and nutritional quality of elephant grass silage added the buriti fruit peel / Características fermentativas e qualidade nutricional de silagem de capim elefante adicionado de casca de fruto de buriti

The objective of this research was to evaluated the inclusion of buriti fruit peel as additive on the fermentation profile, losses, chemical composition and degradability of elephant grass silage. We used a completely randomized design with five levels of buriti fruit peel (0, 50, 100, 200 and 400 g kg-1). The silos were opened after 28 days of storage. In situ degradability monitoring was conducted using a split-plot design in which four animals represented the blocks and silage supplemented with five levels of buriti fruit peel represented the treatments. The use of the additive in elephant silage increased dry matter (DM) (P < 0.001), ether extract (EE) (P < 0.001), ash (P < 0.001), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (P < 0.001) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) (P= 0.0000). The pH (P= 0.0000), N-NH3 (P = 0.024) and there was a decrease in gas losses (P < 0.001), effluent losses and dry matter recovery (P = 0.218) not were influenced by the addition of buriti fruit peel. The inclusion of buriti fruit peel linearly reduced the ruminal degradability DM of soluble fraction (a) (P < 0.001) and potentially degradable insoluble fraction (b) (P < 0.001). The DM content increase with the addition of the buriti fruit peel to the elephant grass silage promotes improvements in the fermentation process, reduces losses of nutrients and ruminal disappearance of dry matter and does not significantly change the chemical composition with the inclusion of 166.7 g kg-1 of the buriti fruit peel.(AU)

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a inclusão de cascas de frutos de buriti como aditivo no perfil de fermentação, perdas, composição química e degradabilidade da silagem de capim-elefante. Foi utilizado um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco níveis de cascas de frutos de buriti (0, 50, 100, 200 e 400 g kg-1). Os silos foram abertos após 28 dias de armazenamento. O monitoramento da degradabilidade in situ foi conduzido usando um esquema de parcelas subdivididas em que quatro animais representaram os blocos e a silagem suplementada com cinco níveis de cascas de frutos de buriti representou os tratamentos. A utilização do aditivo na silagem de capim elefante aumentou a matéria seca (MS) (P < 0,001), extrato etéreo (EE) (P < 0,001), cinzas (P < 0,001), fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) (P < 0,001) e fibra em detergente ácido (FDA) (P < 0,001). O pH (P < 0,001), N-NH3 (P = 0,024) e a redução das perdas por gases (P < 0,0001), perdas por efluentes e a recuperação de matéria seca (P = 0,218) não foram influenciados pela adição de cascas de frutos de buriti. A inclusão de cascas de frutos de buriti reduziu linearmente a degradabilidade ruminal da MS da fração solúvel (a) (P < 0,001) e a fração potencialmente degradável insolúvel (b) (P < 0,001). A correção do teor de matéria seca por meio da adição de cascas de frutos de buriti à silagem de capim-elefante promove melhorias no processo de fermentação, reduz as perdas de nutrientes e desaparecimento ruminal da matéria seca e não altera significativamente a composição química com a inclusão de 166,7 g kg-1 de cascas de frutos do buriti.(AU)