Performance, Ruminal Fermentation, and Site of Starch Digestion in Early Lactation Cows Fed Corn Grain Harvested and Processed Differently1,2

Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to assess the effects of corn grain processing on performance, ruminal fermentation, and starch digestion in early lactation dairy cows. Diets were based on wilted alfalfa silage and high moisture or dry corn grain that was either ground or rolled. Thirty-four cows (17 multiparous) were used to measure effects on intake and lactational performance in a free-stall environment during wk 2 to 15 postpartum. Grinding increased dry matter intake, particularly for cows fed diets containing dry corn, and tended to increase yields of milk, protein, lactose, and SNF. Cow performance was not affected by the moisture content of the corn grain.In the digestion experiment, six cows (43 d of lactation) with ruminal, duodenal, and ileal cannulas were used to measure ruminal and intestinal digestion. Starch digestion in the rumen and small intestine was greater for high moisture corn, but disappearance of starch in the large intestine was greater for dry corn. Both the grinding process and the high moisture content of the corn increased starch digestibility in the total tract. Flow of microbial N in the duodenum was not affected by treatment. High moisture corn increased starch digestion in the rumen and total tract and enhanced ruminal fermentation as indicated by increased volatile fatty acids and decreased NH3 concentrations in the rumen. In the production experiment, however, only grinding improved the value of corn; ensiling at high moisture content had little effect.