260 Comparison of nutrients and in vitro degradability of ryegrass (Lolium Multiforum L.) and alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) in central region of Turkey

Abstract

Abstract Study was conducted to determine the adaptability of ryegrass to the ration of ruminants in central region of Turkey. Both ryegrass and alfalfa were planted in Cankiri and Corum cities which are located in similar geographic and climatic conditions. Forage samples were obtained during second, third and fourth harvesting times. in each sample, dry matter (DM), crude fat (EE), crude protein (CP), crude ash (CA), crude cellulose (CS), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) levels were determined based on AOAC methods. Metabolizable Energy levels of both ryegrass and alfalfa were calculated. In vitro disappearance of dry matter was measured by incubation of dacron bags in rumen fluid for 72 hours in Ankom® daisy incubator and extent of disappearance were determined. Generalized linear model was applied to analyze data and means were separated by using LSD. Although dry matter levels were similar (P > 0,05), ash and fat levels were significantly higher in ryegrass than those in alfalfa (P < 0,05). Additionally, as it was expected, crude protein content of ryegrass was significantly lower than that of alfalfa (P < 0,05). NDF contents of both feeds were similar and ADF levels of alfalfa were slightly higher in only second harvest date. Metabolizable energy levels of ryegrass in all harvested times were statistically higher than those in all harvested dates in alfalfa (P < 0,05). DM disappearance of ryegrass was significantly higher than that of alfalfa (P < 0,05). In conclusion, ryegrass may have some advantages in regions with limited forage sources. Additionally it may be alternative or substitute to the traditional small grain forages. Further research needed to show those advantages of ryegrass in nutrients to extrapolate consumption preferences or performance of beef or dairy cattle.