Qualitative evaluation of Cenchrus ciliaris cv. Molopo and Gayndah as foggage

Author: S.S. Jacobs, W.A. van Niekerk and R.J. Coertze
Year: 2004
Issue: 5
Volume: 34
Page: 65 - 67

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.

Keywords: Cenchrus ciliaris, Foggage, Gayndah, Molopo
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