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The aim of this study was to evaluate the aerobic stability (AS), fermentative profile, and nutritive value of corn silage harvested at two maturity stages, with the use of xylanase, associated or not with Lentilactobacillus buchneri. In trial 1, corn was harvested with a low dry matter (DM) content (250 g/kg) and ensiled in a 4 × 2 factorial scheme (4 additives and 2 storage periods), in a completely randomized design, with 4 replications. The additives tested were as follows: control (CT; no inoculant), L. buchneri (LB), xylanase (XL), and LB+XL (LBXL). The storage periods were 30 and 60 days. The neutral detergent fiber (P=0.041) and acid detergent fiber (P=0.024) content were lower in LB silage after 60 days of storage. The lactic acid bacteria population was higher (P<0.001) in LB and LBXL, while the yeast population (P=0.008) decreased in these treatments. The lactic acid concentration was lower (P<0.001) in LB at 30 days and higher at 60 days. The acetic acid content was higher (P=0.014) in LB at 60 days, but there was no difference between treatments at 30 days. The AS was higher (P<0.001) in LB and LBXL silages. All additives increased the soluble fraction of DM (P=0.015) and organic matter (OM; P=0.013). The effective digestibility of DM and OM was higher (P≤0.001) for LB and lower for CT at all passage rates. In trial 2, corn was harvested at a high DM content (360 g/kg) and ensiled in a completely randomized design with 5 replications, using the same additives as in trial 1. The ammonia content was lower (P=0.043) in LBXL silage and higher in LB. The lignin (sa) content was lower (P=0.019) in LBXL silage and higher in CT silage. The population of filamentous fungi (FUN) was higher (P=0.029) in CT silage and lower in LBXL. The same trend was observed in the population of FUN after 7 days of aerobic exposure (P=0.018). The effective digestibility of DM and OM at passage rates of 2 % was higher (P≤0.029) in LBXL silage and lower in XL silage. Inoculating corn silage with only L. buchneri was more efficient in improving the fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and nutritive value of silage than using xylanase associated or not with LB, especially in corn silage harvested at a low DM content. • Xylanase enzyme does not affect fermentation or corn silage fiber content. • Inoculation with L. buchneri is more efficient in corn silage with a lower DM content. • Inoculation improves the nutritional value of corn silage more than xylanase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of chemically or thermally treated shrimp shells added to corn silage on chemical composition, in vitro degradation, fermentation losses, microbiological count, fermentation profile, and aerobic stability. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replicates. The treatments were Control (CON) corn silage without additive; 31 g/kg ground shrimp shells (GSS); 31 g/kg thermally treated shrimp shells (SSH); 12.5 g/kg NaOH treated shrimp shells (SSNaOH); 9.2 g/kg Chitosan (CHI). The addition of SSH in corn silage increased DM (P <0.001), CP (P <0.001), and decreased NDF (P =0.002), ADF (P <0.001), Lig (P =0.004), Cell (P <0.001), and Hem (P =0.002) compared to CON. However, CHI reduced (P =0.001) in vitro neutral detergent fiber degradability by 18.14% compared to CON. The additives promoted greater (P <0.001) nitrogen loss (NH 3 -N) from the silage. However, they decreased propionic acid concentrations (P =0.048). Additives increased (P <0.001) gas losses but did not affect effluent losses (P =0.372). The SSH increased the LAB population (P =0.045) compared to the other treatments. Considering the aerobic stability, the GSS and SSH treatments resulted in a greater (P <0.001) stability in the silage over time. The addition of SSH improved the nutritional value of corn silage. The SSH increased the LAB population. Besides, the use of SSH and GSS increased the time of exposure to air in corn silage. Thus, thermally treated shrimp shells can be an alternative additive in corn ensiling. • The use of SSH in corn silage increased crude protein and reduced the fibrous fractions. • The SSH increased the LAB population in corn silage. • The GSS and SSH treatments increased stability in the corn silage. • The CHI showed greater efficiency in reducing the population of fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Use of inoculant improved the aerobic stability of maize silage. • Minor differences in fermentative traits characterized low- or high-density silages. • Acetic acid and 1,2-propanediol were higher in inoculated silages. • The inoculant reduced the concentration of some mycotoxins in silages. • Similar mycotoxin concentrations were observed among low- or high-density silages. Abstract We examined the effectiveness of a combined inoculant of hetero-fermentative Lactobacillus buchneri LB1819 and homo-fermentative Lactococcus lactis O224 on quality of maize silage at two different densities. The four treatments were: CTR-LD, untreated at low-density (132 ± 6 kg DM/m3); CTR-HD, untreated at high density (186 ± 6 kg DM/m3); TRT-LD, inoculated at low density; and TRT-HD, inoculated at high density. The 5 replicates for each treatment were ensiled in 20-L plastic jars and the inoculant was applied at a rate of 250,000 CFU/g ensiled forage. The fermentation profile, aerobic stability, and DM losses were measured after 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 days of ensiling, and the chemical composition, microbial counts, and concentrations of mycotoxins were assessed in the 32 day samples. Data measured once during experiment were analyzed according to a completely randomized design (CRD), with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments (i.e., inoculation, density, and their interaction). Data measured at different time points were analyzed according to a CRD, with a 2 × 2 × 5 factorial arrangement of treatments (i.e., inoculation, density, length of ensiling, and their first or second order interactions). The lactic acid concentration increased (P < 0.05) with the duration of ensiling, with no differences among treatments (overall means on day 2 and day 32: 26.7 and 50.9 g/kg DM, respectively). Aerobic stability was greatest (P < 0.05) in the TRT-HD silage at 32 days. After 32 days of ensiling, soluble crude protein was greater in the CTR-HD and TRT-LD silages than the CTR-LD and TRT-HD silages (P < 0.05, inoculation × density interaction). The treatments had similar chemical parameters, yeast and mould counts (overall mean: 4.53 log 10 CFU/g and 1.59 log 10 CFU/g, respectively). The overall concentration of aflatoxin B 1 was 0.412 μg/kg DM. The CTR groups had higher concentrations of fumonisin B 2 (413 vs. 278 μg/kg DM, P < 0.05) and roquefortine C (22.81 vs. 3.39 μg/kg DM, P < 0.05) than the TRT groups. Conversely, the CTR groups had lower concentrations of fusaric acid than the TRT groups after 32 days (2849 vs. 4162 μg/kg DM, P < 0.05). Both CTR and Lactobacillus buchneri LB1819 and Lactococcus lactis O224 treated samples at a high silage density increased the aerobic stability after 32 days of ensiling (P < 0.05, day × density interaction). Results indicated that inoculation and use of a greater silage density enhanced the fermentation and aerobic stability of maize silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of present study was to investigate the changes of total fatty acid (FA) content and fatty acid composition in high moisture alfalfa (DM = 229 g/kg fresh weight) silage treated without (Control) or with Lactobacillus buchneri (LB), L. plantarum (LP), propionic acid additive (PA) and tea polyphenols (TP) during ensiling and after exposure to air. A 750 g of alfalfa material was filled into the experimental silo (polyvinyl chloride bottle, 1000 mL capacity). After ensiling for 65 days at room temperature, a part of silages (200 g) was sampled and the others (450 g) were exposed to air for 6 days. Butyric acid (>30 g/kg DM) was more than lactic acid (<1 g/kg DM) in the control and TP silages due to the low contents of DM and water-soluble carbohydrates, and high buffer capacity, indicating poor fermentation quality. LB, LP, and PA promoted lactic fermentation, restrained butyric fermentation and thus improved fermentation quality of silages. Unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) lipolysis and saturated fatty acids (SFA) synthesis occurred in the control silage during ensiling, mainly the lipolysis of C18:2n-6 and C18:3n-3 and synthesis of C6:0. Compared with the control, LB, LP, and PA restrained butyric fermentation and synthesis of C6:0, meanwhile LB and LP did not relieve the lipolysis of UFA while PA relieved it; TP relieved synthesis of C6:0 and had a slight lipolysis of UFA. After exposure to air for 6 days, the control, LB, PA, and TP silages had better aerobic stability than LP silage, supported by higher temperature in LP silage than in the control, LB, PA, and TP silages. Like volatile FA, most of the FA composition had a positive correlation with aerobic stability. PA silage had the highest total FA content (33.8 g/kg DM), the proportions of UFA, C18:2n6 and C18:3n3 due to its lower pH (<4.60) and amounts of aerobic bacteria (<5.0 lg cfu/g FM) and yeasts (<2.6 lg cfu/g FM) than the control, LB and LP silages, and its lower pH and aerobic bacteria number than TP silage. Therefore, PA kept silage aerobic stability and was a good additive to conserve FA of silage after exposure to air for 6 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effects of inoculants on chemical composition, dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fiber (aNDF) in vitro degradation, fermentative and effluent losses, microbiology, fermentative profile, and aerobic stability of sugarcane mini-silos. Treatments were randomly distributed to the mini-silos, in which: (1) Control (CON); (2) Lactobacillus buchneri (Lb), addition of Lb at 2.6 × 10 10 cfu/g; (3) Lactobacillus buchneri and Bacillus subtilis (Lb + Bs), addition of Lb at 2.6 × 10 10 cfu/g and Bs at 1 × 10 9 cfu/g; and (4) Chitosan (CHI), addition of 1% of CHI on wet basis of sugarcane ensiled. Treatments 2 and 3 were incorporated to the silage at 2 g/t of natural matter ensiled. Lb and Lb + Bs did not alter the in vitro degradation of DM and NDF. Chitosan incorporation increased the DM content ( P = 0.013, 18.7 g/kg DM) and improved ( P = 0.029, 45.6 g/kg DM) the NDF in vitro degradation of sugarcane silage. In addition, CHI incorporation showed higher ( P = 0.002) DM content in silage than Lb and Lb + Bs. Microbial inoculants (Lb and Lb + Bs) reduced the total losses ( P = 0.009) of sugarcane silage. Moreover, CHI incorporation showed lower ( P = 0.001, 84.9 g/kg DM) total losses and higher ( P = 0.031, 84.8 g/kg DM) dry matter recovery than Lb and Lb + Bs. Lactic acid bacteria concentration was increased ( P = 0.001) with additives, and CHI incorporation showed higher ( P = 0.001) lactic acid bacteria concentration than silages treated Lb and Lb + Bs. All additives decreased the ethanol concentration in sugarcane silage, but CHI showed lower ( P = 0.002) ethanol concentration compared to Lb and Lb + Bs. Inoculants improved the aerobic stability of sugarcane silage. In general, the incorporation of CHI to sugarcane silage showed better results of NDF in vitro degradation and gas and effluent losses than Lb and Lb + Bs. Moreover, CHI incorporation showed higher concentration of lactic acid bacteria and lower concentration of ethanol compared to silages treated Lb and Lb + Bs. Chitosan may be an alternative additive to microbial inoculants used in sugarcane ensiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benzoate equivalent (BEq) concept is a potential tool to compare silage additives that differ in active ingredients and their respective concentrations. Thus, our objective was to define BEq coefficients for potassium sorbate and sodium propionate in comparison to sodium benzoate, and establish an application rate based on the BEq to extend the aerobic stability of rehydrated corn grain silage. Dry corn kernels were ground (hammer mill, 8-mm screen), rehydrated to 350 g/kg moisture, and treated as follows: no additive (control), potassium sorbate (PS) at 125, 250, 500 and 1000 g/t, sodium benzoate (SB) at 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 g/t, sodium propionate (SP) at 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 g/t, and a mixture of SB, PS and SP (BPS) at 250 + 150 + 53 g/t, 375 + 225 + 79 g/t, 500 + 300 + 105 g/t and 625 + 375 + 132 g/t, respectively. Treated grain was stored for 60 d in laboratory silos. All additives, alone or mixed, decreased the yeast and mold counts, ethanol and ethyl ester concentrations, and DM loss during fermentation, whereas more water-soluble carbohydrates were preserved in the treated silages. The untreated (control) corn grain silage rapidly deteriorated upon air exposure (∼ 41 h of aerobic stability), and PS, SB, and SP, alone or mixed, linearly improved the aerobic stability with increasing application rate. PS (BEq = 1.99) was more effective than SB (BEq = 1), and SB was more effective than SP (BEq = 0.35) in enhancing the aerobic stability. An application rate of approximately 1400 g/t of BEq could extend the aerobic stability of rehydrated corn grain silage for 3 d over that of untreated silage. In conclusion, the BEq concept is a plausible tool to compare commercial silage additive preparations and define their application rates in corn grain silage. • Untreated corn grain silage was prone to aerobic deterioration. • Salts of sorbate, benzoate and propionate were efficient to improve aerobic stability. • The benzoate equivalent (BEq) concept is a plausible tool to compare products and define their application rates. • BEq coefficients were 1.99, 1.00 and 0.35 for potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate and sodium propionate, respectively. • A dose of ∼1.4 kg/t of BEq is a reasonable recommendation to extend the aerobic stability of corn grain silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented total mixed ration (TMR) is novel feed for ruminants in Tibet. Studies were conducted to compare the effects of using microbial inoculants, molasses and ethanol on the fermentation quality, nutritive value and aerobic stability of TMR silage. TMR were ensiled in laboratory silos (5 L) and treated with (1) no additive (control), (2) ethanol (E), (3) molasses (M); (4) Lactobacillus plantarum (L); (5) ethanol + molasses (EM); (6) ethanol + L. plantarum (EL). Ethanol was applied at 25 ml/kg fresh weight (FW), molasses was applied at 30 g/kg FW, and L. plantarum was applied at 10 6 cfu/g FW. All silos were opened after 45 days of ensiling, three silos per treatment were used for fermentation quality study and 18 silos for aerobic stability test. After 45 days of ensiling, TMR silages treated with ethanol had highest pH ( P < 0.05), inoculant with or without ethanol significantly ( P < 0.05) increased lactic acid (LA) concentration, decreased pH and ammonia nitrogen (AN) compared with control. Butyric acid (BA) concentration in L, EM and EL silages were significantly lower ( P < 0.05) than that of control. Ethanol significantly ( P < 0.05) decreased the population of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), aerobic bacteria and yeast. Ethanol alone or in combination with molasses or inoculant improved aerobic stability of TMR silages, indicated by higher and more stable LA content, smaller rise in pH, aerobic bacteria and yeast count than silages without ethanol. The pH for EL and EM remained at 3.91–4.41, whereas that in control, M and L gradually increased to exceed 4.80 after 9 days of aerobic exposure. Aerobic bacteria and yeast counts in control, M and L silages were increased to significantly ( P < 0.05) higher value than those of E, EM and EL silages after 9 days of aerobic exposure. These results indicate that ethanol played an important role in the inhibition of aerobic bacteria and yeast growth and improvement of aerobic stability of TMR silages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of applying lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculant, molasses and urea (10 6 cfu/g, 50 ml/kg and 5 g/kg on fresh basis, respectively) on ensiling characteristics of Hedychium gardnerianum . Eight treatments of Hedychium were investigated; untreated, with molasses, with urea and with molasses plus urea. Each of these was ensiled alone or after the addition of a bacterial inoculant (containing fibrolytic enzymes). The experimental design was a randomized complete block, with a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Forages were ensiled in laboratory silos for 60 days at room temperature. Chemical composition, microbial populations and in vitro digestibility of forages were determined before and after ensiling. Fermentation products and aerobic stability were measured after silos opening. Addition of molasses or molasses plus urea with or without inoculation had the better (P<0.05) fermentation results. These silages showed lower enterobacteria, clostridial and yeast counts, the absence of molds and the higher numbers of LAB. Also in these silages, the observed pH and ammonia nitrogen were below 4 and 40 g/kg TN, respectively. The inoculated silages presented the higher lactic acid (P<0.05) and the lower acetic, butyric and propionic acid values. The inoculated silages had shorter periods of aerobic stability than the un-inoculated. Silages treated only with urea either inoculated or not showed the worst fermentation properties, the highest numbers of undesired microbes, the lowest digestibility values and the early aerobic instability. While, silage received molasses plus urea with inoculant, revealed the best fermentation characteristics (pH 3.70; lactic acid, 72.4 g/kg DM; ammonia N, 29.4 g/kg TN and absence of butyric acid), the highest crude protein value (183.6 g/kg DM) and the maximum digestibility (56.31% over control). So, for the better utilization of H. gardnerianum as an alternative feed for ruminants, the later treatment is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to study the effects of a commercial inoculant containing Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus buchneri that produces ferulate esterase enzymes on fermentation products, aerobic stability, microbial status, dry matter (DM) losses, and digestibility of neutral detergent fibre (aNDF-D) of maize silages ensiled at four stages of maturity. The kernel milk line (ML) was used to time the forage harvest, and 1/6 ML, 2/5 ML, 3/4 ML and black layer (BL) were observed, for harvest stages I, II, III and IV, respectively. Chopped whole plant maize was untreated or treated with L. casei LC32909 and L. buchneri LN40177, which were applied to achieve a final application rate of 1 × 10 4 cfu/g and 1.0 × 10 5 cfu/g of fresh forage, respectively. The maize was ensiled in laboratory silos for 260 days before opening. The DM content, starch and ether extract concentrations and mould count increased, whereas water activity, nitrate, ash, water soluble carbohydrates (WSC) and crude protein (CP) contents progressively decreased with increasing maturity at harvest. The 24-h and 48-h aNDF-D were similar for harvest stages I, II and III, whereas they were the lowest in harvest stage IV. The effect of inoculation decreased with increasing DM content at ensiling, and the inoculum was ineffective at the last stage of maturity, probably due to the high epiphytic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) count, low water activity and low sugar content that could have negatively influenced the inoculation outcome. The inoculation lowered the lactic acid, yeast and mould counts and increased acetic acid, 1,2-propanediol, pH, DM losses and aerobic stability in the first three harvest stages, whereas no differences were observed between the treated and untreated silages harvested at the last stage of maturity. Regardless of the treatment, the yeast count fell under the detection limit and the aerobic stability of the silage increased to over 200 h when the acetic acid content exceeded 25 g/kg DM. Furthermore, the DM losses were closely correlated to the acetic acid production and increased to 80 g/kg of DM in the treated silages harvested at the earliest stage of maturity. The potential milk production, estimated with MILK2006 model ( Shaver et al., 2006 , http://www.uwex.edu/ces/dairynutrition/spreadsheets.cfm ), showed that the greater aNDF-D of the treated silage, which was observed in harvest stages I and III, did not counterbalance the higher DM losses attributable to the L . buchneri activity during ensiling, in terms of milk per Mg of original ensiled DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the impact of forage chop length and a ferulic acid esterase producing (FAE) inoculant on fermentation, aerobic stability and the physically effective fibre value of barley silage for finishing feedlot cattle. Whole-crop barley ( Hordeum vulgare L.; 310 g DM/kg) was chopped to either a short (10.0 mm; SC) or long (20.0 mm; LC) chop length and ensiled with or without a FAE inoculant containing Lactobacillus buchneri LN4017, Lactobacillus plantarum LP7109 and Lactobacillus casei LC3200 in Ag-Bags ® or mini silos. Data were analyzed as a 2 × 2 factorial using the MIXED procedure of SAS. In mini silos, the terminal pH of inoculated silage was lower (P=0.001) for SC than LC silage (3.87 vs 4.02). In mini silos, inoculation failed to increase acetic acid concentration of SC silage, but it increased acetic acid content of LC silage (P=0.034) and of both SC (45.7 vs 24.3 g DM/kg) and LC (54.3 vs 15.9 g DM/kg) in Ag-Bags ® . In mini silos, lactic acid concentration was greater (P=0.011) in LC than SC (81.5 vs 67.3 g DM/kg) and inoculation decreased (P=0.020) the lactic:acetic acid in LC, but not SC silage. Populations of lactic acid bacteria were greater (P=0.002) and yeast lower (P=0.030) for inoculated silages stored in mini silos. Neither chop length, inoculation nor their interaction affected (P≥0.186) silage DM loss. Both inoculated and uninoculated SC silage remained stable over 8 d of aerobic exposure, but inoculation prolonged the aerobic stability of LC silage by 5 d (d 3–8). Growth performance and DM intake of finishing steers were not affected (P≥0.257) by chop length, inoculation or their interaction, but the proportion of saleable meat and the rib eye area of carcasses was greater (P=0.017; P=0.035 respectively) for steers fed SC than for those fed LC silage. Increasing the chop length of barley silage increased its physically effective fibre content, and the inoculant improved the aerobic stability of LC silage. However, likely owing to the low proportion of silage in the diet (100 g/kg, DM basis), neither chop length nor inoculation altered the growth performance of finishing feedlot cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Vigorous growth of aerobic microbes in feed, resulting in heating of total mixed rations (TMRs) and reduced feed quality, is a relatively common problem for ruminant livestock production. Two experiments were carried out to examine the role of hygienic quality of raw materials and propionic and formic acid-based preservatives on the aerobic stability of grass silage-based TMR. In Experiment 1, the hygienic level of TMR was varied by an inclusion (1/10, w/w) of one-week-old TMR into the mixture. In Experiment 2, the level of hygiene was varied by inclusion or omission of brewers’ grains or by the quality of the grass silage (fresh or after aerobic exposure). In both experiments, a liquid preservative (propionic acid, ammonium propionate/formic acid and ammonium formate) or a solid preservative (sodium calcium propionate) was applied to the feeds at the time of TMR mixing at 0, 2 and 3g/kg (Experiment 1) or 0, 2, 4 and 6g/kg (Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, the aerobic stability of the TMR was reduced by 50h by the inclusion of one-week-old TMR. In Experiment 2, the aerobic stability was reduced by ca. 30h by the inclusion of aerobically spoiled grass silage. Conversely, the aerobic stability of the TMR improved by at least 30h by omission of brewers’ grains from the mixture. Added preservatives improved aerobic stability of TMRs in both experiments. In Experiment 2, improvements in aerobic stability were sufficient to have practical value, and aerobic stability of the TMRs was linearly dependent of the dose level of liquid preservative. Improvements in aerobic stability were greater in the normal quality TMR than in the TMR prepared using silage that already showed some aerobic deterioration. Thus the use of preservatives does not provide a substitute for good hygienic quality of the feed ingredients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective of the current study was to determine the storage shelf life of wet and semi-dry total mixed rations (TMRs) baled silages under farm conditions. Large bales of wet and semi dry TMR at dry matter (DM) content of 500 and 650g/kg, respectively, weighing 600–750kg were prepared and stored outdoors up to five months during the hot spring and summer months in Israel. Ambient high temperatures were 25–28°C in spring and 33–36°C in summer. A high dry matter density of above 400kg/m3 was obtained in the bales. During storage there was an intensive build up of lactic acid (>100g/kg DM) and the pH values in both wet and dry TMRs decreased to around 4.3. Dry matter losses during storage were small, but neutral detergent fiber (aNDF) decreased by about 100g/kg during storage. The nutritional parameters including in vitro DM digestibility were hardly changed during storage. Fresh wet and semi-dry TMRs were spoiled, whereas the stored TMRs were stable upon aerobic exposure. In conclusion, during storage of baled TMR wrapped with polyethylene stretch film, an ensiling process takes place, and it is possible to store such bales outdoors for at least up to 4.5 months with enhanced aerobic stability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Totally mixed rations (TMRs) that contained 804g/kg potato hash (PH) were ensiled in 1.5 L jars with or without a heterofermentative inoculant, Lalsil Fresh Lactobacillus buchneri (LB) for 3 months. Jars were opened on days, 0, 3, 7, 10, 21, 45, 60 and 90 of ensiling and sampled for fermentation and chemical composition determinations. Aerobic stability was determined on day 90 of ensiling. Treatments were LB treated TMR (LB-TMR) and untreated TMR (U-TMR). Furthermore, three TMRs that contained 801g/kg of either maize (320g DM/kg) or PH (as fed basis) were ensiled for 90 days in 210 L drums for lamb growth and digestibility studies. The ensiled TMRs were: Maize TMR (M-TMR), U-TMR and LB-TMR and were fed to 24 South African Dorper lambs (20± 0.152kg live weight) that were randomly allocated to the three TMR treatments (8 lambs/pretreatment). Inoculation with LB decreased (P <0.05) pH, butyric acid, NH3-N, fibre fractions, CO2 production and yeast population while lactic acid, acetic acid and propionic acid concentrations were increased (P <0.05) compared to U-TMR silage. The ensiled LB-TMR was aerobically more stable than U-TMR silage as indicated by lower (P <0.05) CO2 production and yeast population and higher concentrations of acetic acid. Higher (P <0.05) feed intake, average daily gain (ADG), nutrient digestibility and N retention occurred in LB-TMR silage compared to the other silages. It was concluded that LB was effective in producing a better quality PHS as indicated by improved fermentation, aerobic stability, lamb growth performance and digestibility of LB-TMR silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective was to study effects of cultivar, stage of maturity at harvest, wilting, and addition of lactic acid bacterial (LAB) inoculant at ensiling, and their interactions, on the aerobic stability of wheat silages. Wheat of two cultivars, harvested at the flowering or the milk stage of maturity were ensiled in mini-silos, either directly after cutting (DC) or after wilting (W). After 2–7 months of storage, silages were subjected to a 7-day aerobic stability test during which changes in chemical composition, dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fiber (aNDF) digestibility, and temperature, as well as DM losses and CO2 production, were measured. Silages from wheat cultivar BH were relatively dry (DM between 287 and 430g/kg) and were mostly stable upon aerobic exposure. The flowering wheat of cultivar Galil was moister (DM of 199g/kg), and the DC silages were stable upon aerobic exposure. Silages of the wilted flowering wheat (DM of 370g/kg) spoiled and after 4 and 7 days, produced 15 and 76g/kg DM CO2, respectively. Silages from the milk stage of this cultivar, both DC and W were unstable, and a homofermentative LAB enhanced aerobic spoilage. Factorial analysis of variance was applied to the results with cultivar, stage of maturity, wilting and inoculant as main effects, as well as their interactions. Cultivar and LAB inoculant had effects on silage composition and aerobic stability, with stage of maturity having an effect on aerobic losses, whereas wilting did not have effects on aerobic spoilage indicators. The inoculant enhanced CO2 production in the silages prepared from the DC wheat of the flowering and milk stages, as compared with the respective non-inoculated control silages which contained high concentrations of VFA. However, in the wilted silages which contained less VFA, both control and inoculated silages deteriorated similarly with time of exposure to air. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Potato hash, a by-product from the food processing industry, was mixed with wheat bran (70:30) as fed basis and ensiled in 210l drum for 3 months. Three types of potato hash silages were prepared which were: the control (no additives), bonsilage forte (BF, a homofermentative additive) and Lalsil Fresh LB (LFLB, a heterofermentative additive). After 3 months, the silos were opened and sampled for fermentation characteristics. Diets were produced by mixing potato hash silage with soybean meal (90:10) as fed basis and a digestibility study was conducted using five South African Mutton Merino rams (37.2±2.21kg live weight) per diet. Inoculating potato hash silage with BF and LFLB reduced (P<0.05) pH, WSC, butyric acid and ammonia N while increasing the concentration of lactic acid compared to the control. A higher concentration of acetic acid was obtained with LFLB inoculation compared to the other silages. The aerobic stability of the silage was improved (P<0.05) with LFLB while it was reduced with BF inoculation as indicated by higher CO2 production from the latter. Intakes of dry (DM) and organic matter (OM) were not affected while that of gross energy and CP were improved (P<0.05) with BF and LFLB inoculations. Inoculants increased CP, energy and aNDF digestibility, but did not alter DM or OM digestibility. Inoculating silage with BF improved (P<0.05) digestibility of ether extract compared to the other treatments, and inoculations resulted in higher (P<0.05) N intake and retention. It is concluded that BF and LFLB improved silage fermentation and diet digestibility of CP, aNDF and gross energy. Inoculation with LFLB improved aerobic stability whilst BF inoculation reduced it. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine effects of ensiling whole crop maize with the bacterial inoculants Bonsilage mais flussig (BMF) and Lalsil Fresh LB (LFLB) on fermentation, aerobic stability and growth of lambs. Whole crop maize (288DMg/kg) was ensiled with no additive, BMF or LFLB for 60 days in 1.5l jars and 3 months in 210l drums. To follow the fermentation dynamics during ensiling, 1.5l jars were opened on days 0, 4, 10, 21 and 60 of ensiling for sampling and analysed for pH, water-soluble carbohydrates (WSCs), volatile fatty acids (VFAs), lactic acid, ammonia-N, dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), metabolizable energy (ME), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), ADF and NDF. The aerobic stability of silage was determined by opening jars on day 60 and putting silage in an aerobic environment until day 65. After 3 months of ensiling the 210l drums were opened, sampled and analysed as for the laboratory scale silos. Silages were fed to 24 South African Dorper lambs (n =8/treatment) weighing 20.6±0.62kg to determine intake in a 63-day experimental period. Results from the small silos showed that the inoculants decreased (P<0.05) pH, butyric acid and ammonia-N while increasing WSC, lactic acid and acetic acid compared to the control silage. Aerobic stability of the silage was improved with inoculation as indicated by lower (P<0.05) CO2 production when compared with the control silage. Furthermore, the control silage showed a rise in pH and a changed decline in lactic and acetic acid concentrations when exposed to air, as compared to the inoculated silages. Inoculants did not affect DM, pH, OM, CP, ME, EE, ADF and NDF contents of the silage from 210l drums. However, bacterial inoculants increased (P<0.05) WSC, lactic acid and acetic acid, while reducing butyric acid and ammonia-N compared to the control. Lambs fed the LFLB inoculated silage had higher (P<0.05) intakes of DM, OM and CP, higher final body weights and average daily gains (ADGs) compared to the other treatments. It was concluded that both bacterial inoculants improved fermentation dynamics and aerobic stability of whole crop maize silage, and improved lamb performance occurred when LFLB inoculated whole crop maize silage was fed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aerobic stability is an important characteristic of silages because they are exposed to air during storage and feedout. The objective of the current study was to investigate changes that occur in wheat silages during aerobic exposure. Silages of whole crop wheat harvested at the flowering, milk and dough stages of maturity were prepared in 1.5L anaerobic glass jars. Three months after ensiling, silages were subjected to a 7-day aerobic stability test. The silages of wheat harvested at the flowering stage were the most stable upon aerobic exposure, but had the largest fermentation losses. Silages of milk-stage wheat were unstable upon aerobic exposure, and had large amounts of CO2 and heating, large yeast populations, decreased amounts of fermentation products and decreased dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility (from 667 to 572g/kg DM and from 597 to 558g/kg DM, following 7-day aerobic exposure, respectively). Silages of dough-stage wheat had relatively low fermentation losses and were quite stable for at least 4 days of aerobic exposure. Silage samples from the center of commercial bunker silos, and from areas adjacent to the walls of the silos, were judged to be of good quality. Samples from the shoulders of bunker silos were spoiled with higher pH (P<0.05), higher ash content and lower DM and NDF digestibility compared with samples from the center of the silos and areas near the walls (6.8 vs. 4.0, 19.0 vs. 7.8, 477g/kg DM vs. 634g/kg DM and 230g/kg DM vs. 487g/kg DM, respectively). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dairy cattle producers occasionally face situations where it is necessary to open silos before the completion of ensiling process due to feed shortage. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of a propionic acid additive (i.e., Solution Foin; 700ml/L propionic acid and 300ml/L NH4OH) on ensiling characteristics, aerobic stability and feeding value of short-term ensiled forage maize. Chopped whole maize was left untreated or treated with the additive. The additive was added prior ensiling at a rate of 5L/ton (wet basis). Treated and untreated forages were placed in plastic silo bags, which were opened 1 day after ensiling and sampled daily for 30 consecutive days. Animal performance was determined using lactating cows fed total mixed ration with the major forage portion consisted of untreated or treated maize. The feeding study started 2 day post-ensiling. The additive reduced (P<0.05) yeast and mold populations between day 5 and day 14 post-ensiling. The largest differences were observed on day 10, where yeast and mold populations for untreated ensiled maize were 7.86 and 2.51 log colony forming unit/g, respectively, the corresponding values for treated maize were 4.35 and 0 log colony forming unit/g, respectively. The additive improved (P<0.05) aerobic stability between day 0 (by 159h) and day 10 (by 33h) post-ensiling. No differences in pH or concentrations of organic acids were observed between treated and untreated maize. Dry matter intake (average 23kg/d) and milk yield (average 29kg/d) were similar for cows fed treated and untreated maize. Solution Foin can be used to improve the aerobic stability of partially ensiled maize, likely by reducing yeast and mold populations. However, the additive had no positive effects on silage fermentation or dairy cow performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Effects of 3 commercial lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculants and 6 single strains of LAB on fermentation and levels of aflatoxins and other mycotoxins in high-moisture corn (HMC) silage were examined. Corn plants were inoculated with Aspergillus flavus at silk emergence and wet corn kernels were harvested at black layer stage (dry matter [DM]: 704 ± 5.0 g/kg). Samples were ground and ensiled directly (control group, CTR) or after treatment with one of the 9 LAB inoculants. The commercial inoculants contained Lentilactobacillus (Lent.) buchneri LB1819 and Lactococcus lactis O224 (SiloSolve FC; Chr. Hansen A/S, Hørsholm, Denmark), applied at a final dose of 250,000 CFU/g or 1,250,000 CFU/g (SiloSolve FC 1x and SiloSolve FC 5x , respectively); and Lent. buchneri and Lactiplantibacillus (Lac.) plantarum (Pioneer brand 11B91, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Des Moines, USA) applied at a final dose of 250,000 CFU/g. One pure strain of Levilactobacillus (Lev.) brevis DSMZ 20054, two pure strains of Lac. plantarum (LP ATCC 8014 and LP PB) and three of Lacticaseibacillus (La.) rhamnosus (LR ATCC 7469, LR LR7 and LR RI) were also applied at a final expected dose of 250,000 CFU/g. Wet corn kernels were ensiled in 20 L mini-silos, compacted to a density of 389 kg DM/m3, and stored at room temperature. Conditions before ensiling were pH 5.87 ± 0.169, and (log 10 CFU/g) of 7.68 ± 0.473 for LAB, 5.71 ± 0.121 for molds and 6.81 ± 0.341 for yeasts. The mini-silos were opened after 30 or 120 days. From day 30–120 days, levels of acetic acid, propionic acid and 1,2 propanediol increased (P < 0.05) in the SiloSolve FC 1x , SiloSolveFC 5x and Pioneer 11B91, and in LR LR7 groups. During this time, butyric acid level increased 5-fold in CTR; by two to three-fold in pure strains groups; and only slightly in the three commercial inoculants and the LR LR7 (P < 0.05). Aerobic stability increased (P < 0.05) with storage time from 32 to 97 h, and the commercial inoculants and LR LR7 groups had longer stability than CTR (P < 0.05). The storage time and the inoculants did not affect aflatoxin levels. No zearalenone or tenuazonic acid were detected in the mini-silos, even if they contaminated the corn plants. Results indicate that different silage inoculants affected fermentation of HMC and its contamination by mycotoxins, although no inoculant had an effect on levels of aflatoxins. • Lactic acid bacteria slightly modified silage mycotoxin contamination. • Aerobic stability improved with commercial inoculants and L. rhamnosus LR7. • The acetic acid and 1,2 propanediol increased with L. buchneri. • Some mycotoxins detected in harvested crop were not quantified at minisilos opening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of microbial inoculation and storage length on the fermentation profile, dry matter losses and aerobic stability of wet brewers grains (WBG) ensiled with increasing amounts of dry ground corn (DGC). Pure WBG (210 g/kg of dry matter [DM]) and 3 mixtures of WBG and DGC were prepared targeting for a dry matter content of 350 g/kg (RC35), 500 g/kg (RC50) or 650 g/kg (RC65). Distilled water (CON) or one of two microbial inoculants were applied, a combination with Pediococcus pentosaceus at 1 × 105 cfu/g of fresh forage and Propionibacterium freudenreichii at 2 × 104 cfu/g of fresh forage (PPPF), or a heterofermentative with Lactobacillus buchneri at 7.5 × 105 cfu/g of fresh forage and Pediococcus pentosaceus at 1 × 105 cfu/g of fresh forage (LBPP). Mixtures were ensiled in laboratory silos in quadruplicate and opened at two storage lengths (SL), 30 or 60 days (30 d and 60 d, respectively). Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design with a 4 × 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments using Proc Glimmix of SAS. Butyric acid concentration decreased (P < 0.04) with addition DGC regardless of microbial inoculation. Mixtures with greater amounts of DGC (RC50 and RC60) reduced (P < 0.01) DM losses and pH, regardless of inoculation or storage length. Lactic acid concentration was greater (P ≤ 0.05) with intermediate addition of corn (RC35 and RC50). Acetic acid concentration did not differ among inoculation treatments when corn was added to the mixtures; however, LBPP increased 1,2-propanediol in RC50 and RC60. Moreover, LBPP increased aerobic stability only for the RC65 mixture. In conclusion, the addition of DGC to WBG improves fermentation and decreases DM losses, while inoculation with LBPP can improve aerobic stability in RC65. Our data suggests that adding DGC to WBG is a feasible strategy to store WBG for up to 60 days and inoculation with PPPF and LBPP can improve further the conditions of the WBG and DGC mixtures silage. • Results showed the importance of boosting fermentation with microbial inoculation. • Adding dry ground corn to wet brewers grain improved anerobic fermentation. • L. buchneri inoculation improved aerobic stability of 650 g/kg dry matter mixture. • Inoculating wet brewers grain with L. buchneri inhibited clostridial fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Laboratory-scale plastic silos were prepared to examine bacterial factors associated with the aerobic stability of total mixed rations (TMR) preserved as a silage after mixing. In experiment 1, TMR silages containing wet brewers grains (BG), hay (lucerne or sudangrass), maize grain, wheat bran, beet pulp and liquid molasses, were ensiled for 14 and 56 days, and bacterial communities were examined by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The silages resisted aerobic deterioration for as long as 2 weeks, except that heating occurred after 5.5 days in 14-day silage prepared with sudangrass hay. The DGGE analyses indicated that, although not found in the materials, Lactobacillus buchneri and L. brevis were detectable in long-stored TMR silage. L. delbrueckii and L. fermentum were found in the materials, and appeared to survive during fermentation and after exposure to air. There were few changes in the DGGE profiles before and after heating in deteriorated silage containing sudangrass hay. In experiment 2, TMR silage with ingredients similar to those in experiment 1 was prepared, and culturable lactic acid bacteria were isolated from the plates of de Man-Rogosa-Sharpe agar. L. delbrueckii and L. fermentum were obtained from the materials but not from TMR silage. L. buchneri and L. brevis were not found in the materials, but more than one-third of the isolates were L. buchneri and L. brevis in 14- and 56-day silages, respectively. In experiment 3, whole crop maize was inoculated with L. buchneri, L. brevis, L. delbrueckii and L. fermentum isolates, and fermentation and aerobic stability were determined. No changes occurred from L. brevis, L. delbrueckii and L. fermentum inoculation, while aerobic spoilage was suppressed by L. buchneri with increases in pH and acetic acid content. Results indicate that, whilst not found in BG or the TMR mixture, L. buchneri can become detectable during fermentation, and this bacterium helps establish aerobic stability of BG-containing TMR silage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effect of stage of maturity on the ensiling properties of whole crop maize was studied under laboratory conditions. Maize (Zea mays L.) was harvested at four maturity stages being, early dent (ED), one-third milkline (ML), two-thirds ML and blackline (BL). The chopped forages were ensiled in 1.5-l anaerobic jars. Three jars per treatment were sampled on days 2, 4, 8, 15, and 90. After 90 days of ensiling, the silages were subjected to an aerobic stability test lasting 5 days, in which CO2 production was measured, as well as chemical and microbiological parameters. In addition, fibre content and in situ rumen degradability were analysed at the four stages of maturity. Water-soluble carbohydrates decreased in the silages with maturity. The silages from the ED stage had more lactic acid, ethanol, weight loss, yeast, and moulds than at one-third ML, two-thirds ML and BL stages. The silages from the ED stage produced more CO2 than the one-third ML, two-thirds ML and BL stages (P < 0.05). Silages from the ED stage were not judged to be stable under aerobic conditions. The fibre contents decreased in one-third ML, two-thirds ML and BL stage as compared with the ED stage (P < 0.05). The neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content of silages decreased from 527 to 421 g/kg dry matter (DM) (P < 0.05). The hemicellulose content did not change consistently throughout the growth period of the maize, but the crude protein (CP) content decreased in the BL stage as compared with the ED and one-third ML stages (P < 0.05). The CP content decreased from 80 to 58 g/kg DM (P < 0.05). The highest in situ rumen DM and organic matters degradabilities, and degradable yields, were obtained at two-thirds ML stage. The highest NDF degradability was at the ED stage, but yields of degradable NDF were highest at two-thirds ML stage. Optimum whole crop maize harvest is at two-thirds ML stage to maximize yield of fermentable nutrients per hectare. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Silage was prepared from grass that was treated either with caprylic or capric acid, prior to ensiling, to increase aerobic stability. The silage was introduced to the RUSITEC in order to measure the effect of treatment on in vitro microbial metabolism. Although, caprylic acid inhibited lactic acid formation during the ensiling process, aerobic stability was high. Capric acid did not interfere with lactic acid production yielding silage with moderate stability. In RUSITEC neither caprylic nor capric acid had an effect on protozoa counts, but both lowered apparently degraded organic matter (OMAD). Caprylic acid promoted methane and acetate production while propionate production and microbial yield were lower. Capric acid had no effect on the production of methane, acetate and propionate; butyrate production increased and microbial yield remained unaffected.Caprylic and capric acid are highly preservative, yielding silage of good quality and high aerobic stability indicating their efficiency against spoilage micro-organisms. The bactericidal effect however, was modified during the ensiling process since both lost some toxicity against rumen protozoa and methanogenic bacteria. Net production of rumen microbial cell mass per unit OMAD was not impaired. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aerobic stability of silage is partially a consequence of its fermentative profile. The use of Lactobacillus buchneri (Lb) inoculant is widely adopted to promote a favourable quality of maize silage. Few studies investigated the effect of pre-ensiling composition on aerobic stability and the fermentative profile of silage. We evaluated the use of Lb in maize silage under variable ensiling conditions including differences in composition at harvest and exposure to air to test its possible effect on aerobic stability and fermentative profile, also by the means of a multiparameter prognostic risk score. Samples of maize from a single maize hybrid of late-ripening (n = 108) were collected in a single field area, at three maturity stages (MSe) and after three samples sealing delay periods (DLe) of air exposure (0, 6, 20 h). The heterofermentative inoculation with Lb was dispensed at three dosages (MXe: half dose, standard dose, double dose) and compared to a control (pure water). The combinations of MXe × MSe × DLe, were repeated three times. The 108 samples were ensiled in a 21 L bucket for 60 days, and analysed for the fermentative profile, dry matter (DM), and DM recovery (DMr) at three times (OTe: at the silos opening, after 48 h, after 96 h). The aerobic stability of the silage was considered as the outcome for the survival analysis by the means of an Akaike's information criterion backward Cox model (AIC-Cox), and the end-point was the event (defined as the aerobic instability). Concerning the main fermentative traits of post-ensiled maize (pH, ammonia, mannitol, ethanol, lactic, acetic, propionic, and butyric acid), and the DMr, we found effects (P < 0.05) for the use of inoculant (except for DMr, mannitol, ethanol, and butyric acid), for the maturity stage (except for ammonia), and the sealing delay (except for mannitol, lactic, and butyric acid). In the AIC-Cox model, the lignin (sa) and ADF were used as predictors, and the concordance index was 0.75 (P = 0.0001). Based on the AIC-Cox model, drawing a nomogram, it was possible to assess the probability of aerobic stability of maize silage through a prognostic score which allows a fast and easy risk stratification of maize using the pre-ensiled composition as predictors. • The use of inculants, regardless the dose, affect the main fermentative traits. • The standard dose of the inoculants increases the aerobic stability of maize silage. • The aerobic degradation risk can be evaluated by a prognostic multiparametric score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Commercial or pure LAB inoculants slightly modified silage fermentation profile. • Aerobic stability improved with SiloSolve FC and L. rhamnosus ATCC 7469. • The AFB1 concentrations decreased with L. rhamnosus LR7 or L. plantarum ATCC 8014. • The incidence of different mycotoxins changed by use of bacterial inoculants. Effects of commercial and pure lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculants on fermentation and levels of aflatoxins and other mycotoxins in corn silage that was experimentally contaminated in the field with a toxigenic strain of Aspergillus flavus (ITEM 8069) were determined. Late-season corn hybrid plants were inoculated with A. flavus at silk emergence, and fresh-chopped corn was harvested at the ⅔ milk line stage (dry matter [DM]: 428 ± 6.5 g/kg) and ensiled directly (control, CTR) or after treatment with 9 LAB inoculants. Commercial inoculants contained Lactobacillus (L.) buchneri LB1819 and Lactococcus lactis O224 or Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactococcus lactis SR3.54 (respectively SiloSolve FC or SiloSolve MC, Chr. Hansen A/S, Hørsholm, Denmark), L. buchneri and L. plantarum (Pioneer brand 11C33, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Des Moines, USA). One pure strain of L. brevis DSMZ 20054, two pure strains of L. plantarum (LP ATCC 8014 and LP PB) and three of L. rhamnosus (LR ATCC 7469, LR LR7 and LR RI) were also used. Each silage received an inoculant at final expected dose of approximately 250,000 CFU/g of freshly chopped forage, and was ensiled in 20 L mini-silos, compacted to density of 160 kg dry-mass/m3, stored at room temperature, and opened after 30 or 120 days. The commercial and pure inoculants had few effects on fermentation relative to CTR. Ensiling time and LAB treatment had no effect on silage pH. However SiloSolve FC silage had lower ethanol levels than CTR group, while 1,2 propanediol level doubled as ensiling time increased and the high values were with SiloSolve FC and Pioneer CFT. Aerobic stability increased with ensiling time, with the longest stability in SiloSolve FC and L. rhamnosus ATCC 7469 silage. Lowest aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) concentrations were in the L. rhamnosus LR7 and L. plantarum ATCC 8014 silages (about 8–10 μg/kg DM) and the highest concentration was in L. brevis DSMZ 20054 silage (34.2 μg/kg DM). Concluding, future investigations should be carried out to examine the relationship between LAB and mycotoxinegic fungi during ensiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• DM density was much higher in bunkers than in round bales. • Total DM losses were 17 % and 7 % in bunkers and bales, respectively. • Silage DM intake index was higher for bale than bunker silage. • Aerobic stability was higher in bunker than bale silage. • With wet crops, higher acid dosages seem necessary for bunkers than for bales. Grass clover crops were harvested with or without application of 4 L/t of a formic- and propionic acid-based silage additive and ensiled in one bunker silo and 6 round bales per treatment in each of three harvests. The study aimed to compare losses, grass silage quality and aerobic stability obtained either with round bales or precision chopped grass ensiled in bunker silos. Round bales were either sealed immediately or after delay until bunker silos were covered. Unpredicted rain showers during the three harvests gave crop DM as low as 194, 186 and 213 g/kg, respectively. Due to the lower pressure exerted on the crop by the baler than by packing vehicles in the bunkers, and the longer particle length in bales, densities in baled silage were much lower than in bunker silage, 531 vs 833 kg/m3 (P < 0.001), and 111 vs 164 kg DM/m3 (P < 0.001). Presumably due to early cell rupture and higher release of effluent caused by the applied acid, densities were higher in treated than in untreated silage, in bunkers 170 vs. 159 kg DM/m3 (P = 0.08), and in bales, 114 vs. 109 kg DM/m3 (P = 0.02). A much lower proportion of ensiled crop DM could be offered to livestock from bunkers than from round bales, 833 vs. 927 g/kg (P < 0.001). The amount of moulded, wasted silage DM was significantly higher in bunkers than in bales, 26 vs. 0.6 g/kg, (P < 0.001), and the sum of DM lost by crop respiration, effluent runoff, anaerobic fermentation, aerobic deterioration and gaseous losses was significantly higher from bunkers than bales, 141 vs. 72 g/kg (P < 0.002). Acid treatment caused only minor decreases in DM losses. It restricted acid fermentation and improved silage intake potential both in bunkers and bales (P < 0.001), and caused higher stability in bales (P < 0.009). High ethanol concentrations were found in acid treated bunker silage but not in treated bale silage. Also, a reduction in heat induced increases in fiber bound protein obtained by acid treatment in bales, but not in bunkers, suggested that the applied dosage was too low to restrict heating in bunkers, and favored yeast growth. The larger surface area susceptible to heating, and loss of additive in effluent, make higher acid dosages, or a higher proportion of ingredients that inhibit yeast growth, necessary to low DM grass crops ensiled in bunkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Addition of citric acid residue improved fermentation quality of alfalfa silage. • Citric acid residue enhanced lactic acid accumulation and fibre degradation. • Citric acid residue inhibited the production of ammonia nitrogen. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of citric acid residue (CAR) on the fermentation quality and aerobic stability of alfalfa silage and to define the optimal application level of CAR in silage making. Alfalfa was ensiled without additives (CON) or with 1.2 % CAR (C1), 3.6 % CAR (C2) and 6.0 % CAR (C3) on a fresh weight (FW) basis for 3, 6, 9, 15, 30 and 45 days. Chemical and microbial compositions were determined after ensiling. The residual silages ensiled for 45 days were evaluated for aerobic stability. The addition of CAR to alfalfa silages increased (P< 0.05) dry matter (DM) and water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) contents and decreased (P< 0.05) acetic acid, ethanol, ammonia nitrogen (NH 3 -N) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) contents compared with those of the control. The values of pH and the contents of DM, lactic acid, acetic acid, ethanol, WSC, NH 3 -N, hemicellulose and cellulose showed a linear relationship with the increasing application level of CAR (P< 0.05). The C3 silages showed the optimal fermentation quality. The C1 and C2 silages showed lower aerobic stability than that of the control (P< 0.05). The results indicated that addition of CAR effectively improved the fermentation quality and enhanced fibre degradation, but had no obvious positive effects on aerobic stability. By comprehensive consideration, 6.0 % CAR was recommended for alfalfa silage making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Adding condensed tannin extract (quebracho, Schinopsis lorentzii) to corn grain silage impaired lactic acid bacteria growth. • Quebracho addition delayed pH decrease, favouring yeast development. • In this study, quebracho reduced proteolysis, decreasing the amount of ammonia, putrescine, and cadaverine in silages. • Readily degradable nutrients were reduced and undegradable components raised in silages due to quebracho addition. • Adding quebracho to rehydrated corn grain silage is not recommended in dosages above 30 g/kg DM. The objective of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of a plant extract rich in condensed tannins on the fermentation profile, contents of biogenic amines and mycotoxins, chemical composition and aerobic stability of rehydrated corn silage. Kernels were milled (4.5-mm sieve), rehydrated (aiming for 350 g/kg moisture) and treated with a plant extract from the plant Schinopsis lorentzii at the following doses: 0, 5, 10, 30 and 50 g/kg dry matter (DM) before ensiling. Nylon-polyethylene vacuum-sealed bags were used as experimental silos (3 kg per silo). On the one hand, the additive reduced the DM losses and gaseous losses. On the other hand, the addition of the plant extract resulted in higher pH values due to the formation of less lactic acid, probably related to the inhibition of bacterial growth. The concentrations of ammonia, ethanol and acetic acid were also reduced due to the plant extract addition. The reduction in the acetic acid concentration led to higher counts of yeast and lower aerobic stability in silage treated with the highest dose of extract (50 g/kg). Silage treated with the plant extract had higher DM concentration as well as higher contents of condensed tannins, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber and lower contents of starch and protein. The application of the plant extract linearly decreased the ruminal in situ DM degradability of the corn grain silage. The plant extract reduced the proteolysis and the formation of putrescine, cadaverine, spermine, spermidine, and pyrrolidine, while increased histamine and isopropyl amine concentrations. A linear increase was detected in the aflatoxin concentration in the treated silages. Based on these results, condensed tannins may support the fermentation process especially the proteolysis. However, quebracho tannin are not recommended for addition to corn grain silage in dosages higher than 30 g/kg DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fermentation quality of moist crimped faba beans improved using silage additives. • Silage additives also improved the aerobic stability of crimped faba beans. • Antinutritional vicin and convicin concentrations decreased during ensiling. • Total and particularly soluble proanthocyanids also decreased during fermentation. Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is a grain legume that provides possibilities to increase local protein self-sufficiency both as feed and food in areas where possibilities for cultivation of other protein crops are limited. However, full ripening may not be achieved and storage of the moist beans by crimping and ensiling provides an economic alternative to drying, and is well suited for animal feeding. The objectives of the current experiment were to evaluate the effects of moisture content and various silage additives on the fermentation quality, aerobic stability and fate of bioactive compounds of ensiled crimped faba beans in a pilot scale ensiling experiment. Faba beans were combine harvested at moisture level of 443 g/kg and crimped prior to ensiling. The following additive treatments were applied using three replicates: 1) control (CON), 2) two commercial lactic acid bacteria inoculants as mixture (LABmix), 3) In-house LAB inoculant (LABLuke), 4) Formic acid based product (FA) and 5) Salt based product (Salt). Further, two of the additive treatments were prepared with additional moisture: 6) Control with tap water addition (CON + w) and 7) LABmix with tap water addition (LABmix + w). The beans ensiled without additive showed elevated pH, butyric acid and ethanol concentrations and proportion of ammonia N in total N. Addition of water further decreased the fermentation quality. The LAB inoculants improved the fermentation quality of the beans compared to CON. The fermentation was effectively restricted when FA was used. Both LAB and chemical additives improved aerobic stability compared to CON and Salt was especially effective in improving aerobic stability. Vicine disappeared totally during the ensiling period and also convicine was effectively degraded. It seems that promoting microbial activity in the silo either by LAB inoculation or increased moisture promoted the degradation of convicine, while chemical additives decreased the degradation of it. Total and particularly soluble proanthocyanidins were also degraded during the ensiling period. Crimping and ensiling is an alternative preservation method for faba beans which eliminates the energy consumption and investments required for drying. In addition, benefits regarding the concentrations of bioactive compounds may be expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lactobacillus plantarum was the most frequent species during the fermentation. • The inoculant effect is dependent on the strain and interaction with the forage. • Strains isolated from other forages are promising for elephant grass. • Inoculation with L. farraginis had the lowest DM loss and greatest aerobic stability. • Obligately heterofermentative strains improved silage more than homofermentative. Elephant grass ensilage might result in high dry matter (DM) loss and a reduction in feed quality. Knowledge of microbiota and the use of specific microbial inoculants can reduce DM losses and result in better fermentations and final products. The aim of the study was to characterise lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from elephant grass silages and subsequently select the promising strains to be used as microbial inoculants. Eighty-six LAB strains isolated from silages (7 from corn, 14 from sugarcane and 65 from elephant grass silages) were characterised and evaluated. Thirteen strains that showed the highest growth, pH reduction, production of interest metabolites and the ability to inhibit undesirable microorganisms and the strain L. hilgardii CCMA 0170 were evaluated in experimental silos. The aerobic stability, fermentative profile and microbial population of elephant grass silages of BRS Capiaçu cultivar were evaluated after 60 days of storage. No LAB was found in elephant grass before ensiling. The elephant grass silage fermentation was characterised by the succession of Lactobacillus sakei , L. plantarum group, Pediococcus pentosaceus and L. brevis. The silages inoculated with CCMA 0170 (L. hilgardii) CCMA 1394 and CCMA 1402 (L. plantarum), CCMA 1409 (L. brevis), CCMA 1363 and CCMA 1364 (L. farraginis) showed the smallest DM loss (mean of 38 g/kg of ensiled vs. 123 g/kg in control silage) and high aerobic stability (mean of 33.1 h vs. 21.2 h in control silage). Among the tested strains, the CCMA 1364 strain stands out as resulting in silages with low yeast populations, undetectable levels of butyric acid and high aerobic stability. Our results highlight the importance of the research and evaluation of new strains adapted to the fermentative process of each forage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ensiling gives a sustainable solution for Bamboo shoot shell (BSS) management. • BSS was explored as a new roughage source for TMR. • The BSS replacement had no adverse effect on the silage quality and digestibility. • BSS was effective in improving aerobic stability of TMR silage. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of replacing of whole-plant corn (WPC) with different proportions of bamboo shoot shell (BSS) on the fermentation quality, chemical composition, aerobic stability and in vitro digestibility of total mixed ration (TMR) silage. Four TMRs were produced on a fresh matter basis: (i) 45% WPC (control); (ii) 15% BSS + 30% WPC (BSS15); (iii) 25% BSS + 20% WPC (BSS25); and (iv) 35% BSS + 10% WPC (BSS35). After ensiling for 5, 7, 14, 30 and 90 days, silos were opened for silage quality and in vitro parameter analyses, and a subsequent aerobic stability test was performed on the 90-day silage for 14 days. The 90-day silages replaced with BSS15 and BSS25 were well fermented, as indicated by high lactic acid (LA) content, low pH value and ammonia nitrogen (NH 3 -N) and butyric acid (BA) contents. When aerobic exposure occurred, in comparison to the control, the BSS-replaced silages were more stable with lower fermentation temperature as well as higher contents of LA, acetic acid (AA) and water soluble carbohydrate (WSC). No significant differences of BSS replacement were observed on in vitro gas production, digestibility, metabolizable energy (ME) and net energy for lactation (NE L). In conclusion, the replacement of WPC with BSS15 and BSS25 had no adverse effect on fermentation quality and in vitro digestibility while improving the aerobic stability of TMR silage. The BSS25 replacement level is recommended to ensure the maximum utilization of BSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The new additive with low toxicity for mammals improves silage aerobic stability. • The harvest of high DM maize leads difficulties to contain aerobic spoilage. • The chemical additive did not affect the nutritional parameters. • Aerobic stability and yeast count were strongly related to additive dose applied. The ensiling of high DM content maize, with the aim of achieving a higher proportion of starch in the silage, leads to difficulties in containing aerobic spoilage, due to its low lactic acid bacteria (LAB) activity during fermentation. The aim of the present study has been to evaluate the effects of a new chemical additive, containing a mixture of monopropionine and monobutyrin, on the aerobic stability of whole crop maize silages in two trials in which the conservation period differed. Maize was harvested at a DM of around 410 g/kg and was then untreated (C) or treated with L. buchneri (LB) NCIMB 40788, a new additive, which was applied at a rate of 5 g/kg fresh matter (FM) (A0.5), at rate of 10 g/kg FM (A1.0) and at rate of 15 g/kg FM (A1.5). The obtained silages were conserved for 100 d and 240 d for Trials I and II, respectively. At opening, the DM losses, chemical composition, fermentation profile, microbial counts and aerobic stability were determined for each silo. In both trials, the addition of the chemical additive influenced the fermentation profile, and a lower level of acetic acid and ethanol was observed than for the C and LB silages. The propionic and butyric acids were only found in the silages treated with the chemical additive at concentrations that were linearly related to the calculated amount derived from the acid hydrolysis of the additive, thus indicating no clostridia activity had occurred. The application of the new additive reduced the yeast count, and aerobic stability was thus improved. The aerobic stability increased in an added dose dependent manner, with a mean increase of 120 h in A1.5, compared to the C silages. The DM losses were higher in the C silages than in the A1.5 ones. The chemical additive did not affect the nutritional parameters. The addition of LB was not very efficient, probably due to the low water activity of the maize with high DM content and the low temperature at harvesting, which could have negatively influenced its activity. The addition of monopropionine and monobutyrin showed a positive effect, as it improved the aerobic stability, even in less than optimal conditions (high DM maize content and low temperature). The effect of the additive was related to its application rate, with the best results being observed when it was applied at 1.5% of fresh matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Increased proportions of soybean crop were mixed and ensiled with maize crop. • Soybean did not improve the aerobic stability of soybean-maize bi-crop silage. • Soybean worsened the fermentation and digestibility of soybean-maize bi-crop silage. • Although silage N increased with soybean, it occurred mainly due to soluble or cell-wall associated N fractions. Our objective was to determine the influence of soybean proportion on the conservation of maize-soybean bi-crop silages. We hypothesized that the aerobic stability of bi-crop silages would increase with the level of legume in the mixture, without affecting fermentative losses. Maize (Zea mays) and soybean (Glycine max) were cultivated in alternating rows within four 0.5-ha plots and manually harvested when the maize crop reached 330 g/kg of dry matter (DM). After cut, maize and soybean plants from each plot were chopped separately. Five proportions of whole-plant soybean were mixed with whole-plant maize, ensiled in laboratory silos (0, 125, 250, 375 and 500 g/kg of fresh matter) and stored for 90 d. As expected, crude protein increased linearly with the inclusion of soybean crop in the mixed silages (from 106 to 154 g/kg DM), mainly at the expense of soluble N. On the other hand, the addition of soybean increased DM loss during fermentation (from 59 to 109 g/kg) without altering yeast counts and aerobic stability of the silages. The increase in 2,3-butanediol, ethanol and acetic acid concentrations suggested that soybean addition favored the development of enterobacteria. In vitro DM and fiber digestibility linearly decreased with the inclusion of soybean, due to an increase in acid detergent fiber content. In conclusion, despite the expected increase in crude protein, mixing up to 500 g/kg of whole-plant soybean in whole-plant maize at ensiling did not improve aerobic stability, increased fermentative losses and reduced the in vitro digestibility of the silages compared with whole-plant maize silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sodium benzoate increases aerobic stability of rehydrated sorghum grain silage (RSGS). • Proteolysis reduced in RSGS treated with sodium benzoate. • Acetate to propionate ratio was higher when cows were fed RSGS treated with sodium benzoate. • Feeding RSGS treated with sodium benzoate did not alter the performance of dairy cows. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the nutritional value of rehydrated sorghum grain silage treated with sodium benzoate, for use in dairy cow feed. Fifteen-hundred kg of dry ground sorghum were rehydrated to 350 g/kg moisture and ensiled in 200-L plastic drums. At ensiling, grain was either treated with sodium benzoate at 2 g/kg as fed (Benzoate) or nothing (Control). Twelve mid-lactating Holstein cows, with 170 ± 47 d in milk, received a standard diet for 14 d, and then were paired blocked and assigned to one of two dietary treatments for 28 d. Diets contained (dry matter basis): 360 g/kg corn silage, 48 g/kg Tifton haylage, 122 g/kg whole cottonseed, 184 g/kg soybean meal, 27 g/kg mineral-vitamin premix, and 258 g/kg rehydrated sorghum grain silage (Control or Benzoate). Dry matter intake, milk yield and composition were measured weekly, whereas rumen fermentation profile and feeding behavior were measured the last week of the experimental period. Silages treated with sodium benzoate had lower concentrations of ethanol (P = 0.05), ethyl-esters (P < 0.05) and soluble protein (P =0.02), and less yeast counts (P < 0.01). Therefore, silage treated with benzoate had higher aerobic stability compared to control silages (P < 0.01). Ruminal acetate to propionate ratio was lower in cows fed the control treatment compared to benzoate (2.66 vs. 2.96), due to the greater proportion of propionate in the rumen fluid (19.0 vs. 17.8 mol/100 mol of volatile fatty acids). However, dry matter intake, milk yield and composition did not differ between treatments. Sodium benzoate changed silo and rumen fermentation profile without altering the performance of mid-lactation dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]