Abstract:
The dry matter (DM) content of corn silage is crucial for dairy cow productivity as it
directly influences nutritional intake. This study evaluated the impact of rice bran
(RB) and paddy husk powder (PHP) as additives to enhance DM, shelf life, and cost effectiveness of corn silage. The study was a three-factor factorial layout in a
complete randomized design with four replicates. Two additives; RB and PHP were
incorporated into the corn silage at three levels (5%, 7.5% and 10%). Ensiling was
allowed for three distinct periods (30, 45 and 60 days). The control samples were
prepared without adding additives. After designated periods, silage samples were
analyzed for proximate composition and pH. Physical properties (smell, texture and
color) were measured to determine the shelf life. Data were analyzed using ANOVA
and regression models. Results indicated that while the type of additive and ensiling
period had no significant effect on the DM of corn silage, the additive level showed
a significant influence (p<0.001). The two-way interaction between additive type and
ensiling time had a significant effect (p=0.013) on the crude protein content of corn
silage. All two-way interactions significantly influenced (p<0.001) crude fiber
content of corn silage. Regression results revealed incorporating 1% of additive
accounted for a 0.58% increase in DM (β1=0.58). Analysis of physical properties
revealed corn silage incorporated with RB has a shelf life of 60 days, while silage
with PHP remained stable for up to 45 days. The 10% PHP-incorporated corn silage
(Rs.28.20 per kg) exhibited the lowest production cost compared to the 10% RB incorporated corn silage (Rs.38.20 per kg). This study concludes that incorporating
RB and PHP enhances the DM content of corn silage, with 10% PHP being the most
cost-effective option, while RB provides a longer shelf life.
