Effects of Biomate® inoculant and dextrose on the fermentation of alfalfa silages (1992)

C Lin,A.M Feyerherm,K.K Bolsen,J.E Bradford,B.E Brent,W.R Aimutis

doi:10.4148/2378-5977.2197

Abstract

This study documented once again that ensiling alfalfa is difficult and unpredictable. Adding 2% dextrose or Biomate® inoculant alone or in combination had little influence on the ensiling process but did improve fermentation efficiency somewhat. The pre-ensiling characteristics (i.e., dry matter (DM) and water soluble carbohydrate (WSC) values, buffering capacity, and epiphytic microflora) at the different cuttings and stages of maturity undoubtedly influenced the effectiveness of the two additives. Apparently, alfalfa often has too little WSC and too much buffering capacity to produce adequately preserved silage, especially when ensiled at a low DM content (less than 30 to 34%).

Highlights

The goal of silage fermentation is to produce enough lactic acid and to inhibit plant catabolic enzymes and growth of undesirable epiphytic microorganisms
The pre-ensiling characteristics (i.e., dry matter (DM) and water soluble carbohydrate (WSC) values, buffering capacity, and epiphytic microflora) at the different cuttings and stages of maturity undoubtedly influenced the effectiveness of the two additives
The most numerous undesirable microflora are the Enterobacteriaceae and yeasts and molds; they compete with the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) for fermentable sugars

Summary

Introduction

The goal of silage fermentation is to produce enough lactic acid and to inhibit plant catabolic enzymes and growth of undesirable epiphytic microorganisms. Stimulating fermentation by adding bacterial cultures has become common. These products are safe to handle and help establish a homolactic fermentation (fermentations producing only lactic acid). Our objective was to determine the effects of a commercial bacterial inoculant and WSC additions on the ensiling process of two alfalfa cuttings, each harvested at three maturity stages. The effect of these additives on microbial succession was presented last year (KAES Report of Progress 623)

Objectives

Results

Conclusion