The aim of the study was to determine the qualitative value of Cenchrus ciliaris cv. Molopo and Gayndah utilized by small ruminants as a foggage (standing hay). Molopo material had crude protein (CP) concentrations that varied from 76 to 101 g/kg DM and Gayndah CP concentrations ranging from 78 to 135 g/kg DM over a five week period. Molopo had in vitro digestible organic matter (IVDOM) values that ranged from 556 to 604 g/kg DM and Gayndah IVDOM values that ranged from 532 to 642 g/kg DM. The neutral detergent fibre (NDF) concentration of Molopo varied from 647 to 716 g/kg DM and the acid detergent lignin (ADL) concentration from 56 to 64 g/kg DM. Gayndah had NDF concentrations that ranged from 547 to 711 g/kg DM and ADL concentrations from 60 to 86 g/kg DM. The quality of the selected material was slightly better than values reported for foggages of tropical grasses.
"Experientia docet" - Experience is the best teacher