Evaluation of Rumen Metabolism and Digestibility of Corn Silage and MDGS Finishing Diets

Authors

Dirk B. Burken, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Shelby E. Gardine, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Jana L. Harding Harding, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Melissa L. Jolly-Breithaupt, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Galen E. Erickson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2015

Citation

2015 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report, University of Nebraska—Lincoln Extension, MP101.

Comments

Copyright © 2015 University of Nebraska.

Abstract

A metabolism experiment was conducted to evaluate rumen pH, digestibility, and in situ nutrient disappearance in steers fed either a diet containing 95% corn silage or diets containing 15 or 45% corn silage and 20 or 40% modified distillers grain with solubles (MDGS). Steers fed 45% compared to 15% corn silage had increased ruminal pH, DMI, NDF intake, and NDF digestibility. Decreased DM and OM digestibility were observed in diets containing 40% MDGS compared to 20%. Disappearance of corn bran NDF was increased in diets containing 45% corn silage. These results imply enhanced fiber digestibility as diets increased in corn silage.