The Effect of Inoculants on Nutrient Losses of Corn Silage and High-moisture Corn Stored in Mini Silos

Authors

Colton R. Oney, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Jana L. Gramkow, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Andrea K. Watson Watson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Galen E. Erickson, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Jim C. MacDonald, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
M. K. Biddlecome, Schaumann Inc.

Date of this Version

2018

Citation

2018 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. University of Nebraska Extension MP105. Lincoln, NE.

Comments

© 2017 The Board Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of inoculants (BONSILAGE CORN 200G and BONSILAGE HMC 200G) containing Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici on nutrient losses and aerobic stability of corn silage and high moisture corn. Corn silage and high moisture corn were inoculated and stored in mini silos with nutrient loss and spoilage characterizations at 30, 90, and 120 days with multiple inoculation levels. Longer ensiling times led to greater total acid production. The higher levels of inoculation led to lower total acid production and higher pH. Inoculating corn silage and high moisture corn also affected the fermentation process by decreasing lactic acid production and increasing acetic acid production. The increase in acetic acid production may be partially responsible for the increased aerobic stability observed for the inoculated feeds. Previous research would support our finding of greater stability and lower DM losses with L. buchneri inoculants.