The effects of chopping length, cellulase addition and their interaction on the silage fermentation quality of fresh guineagrass (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Natsukaze) were investigated. The grass was ensiled in laboratory silos after chopping into 1, 3 or 6 cm, with or without Acremonium cellulase (AC). After ensiling for 100 days, gas production and chemical composition of silages were measured. The chopping length of 3 cm was beneficial to lactic acid fermentation. The AC addition significantly decreased acetic acid contents and increased total acids (P < 0.01). Chopping and AC addition had a significant interaction on all fermentation parameters except NH3-N content (P < 0.01).
Journal articles from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) African Journal of Range and Forage Science as well as related articles and reports from throughout the southern African region.