Fermentation profile and nutritive value of maize silage with Brachiaria species

The production of mixed silages is a technique that has emerged as a viable alternative for supplying nutrients during food-shortage periods in the dry season, in addition to guaranteeing the highest ensiled mass production. The aim of this study was to evaluate the fermentation profile and nutritional value of maize silage with Brachiaria species. The experiment was carried out under a completely randomized experimental design with four replications. The treatments comprised the following types of silage: maize; Congo grass; Xaraes palisadegrass; Paiaguas palisadegrass; maize + 30% Congo grass; maize + 30% Xaraes palisadegrass; and maize + 30% Paiaguas palisadegrass. For ensilage, maize and grasses were harvested in a 105-day cycle at a depth of 20 cm from the soil surface. According to the results, the maize silage and mixed silages presented an adequate fermentation profile and improved nutritional value. Among the investigated Brachiaria species, Paiaguas palisadegrass emerged because of its protein increase and low ADF content; therefore, this species is recommended for use in mixed silage production. Thus, mixed silage can be used as an alternative for animal feed supplementation