Comparative analysis of the biomass yield and nutrient content of corn varieties grown in rice fields during the dry season for ruminant feed

Abstract

Background: Cultivating corn plants in rice fields during the dry season is an alternative worth considering for providing ruminant feed. However, there is no information on the nutrient content and biomass productivity of corn plants cultivated in rice fields during the dry season. Aim: This study aimed to assess the biomass yield and nutrient content of corn plants cultivated in rice fields during the dry season as a potential feed for ruminant livestock. Methods: The research was conducted in Sidenreng Rappang Regency, South Sulawesi Province, and involved two corn varieties: P1-Lamuru (local composite variety) and P2-Pioneer P32 (hybrid variety), each evaluated with five replications. Results: The results indicated that Pioneer P32 corn stalks and whole plants had higher dry matter (DM) content, whereas Lamuru corn stalks exhibited higher ether extract content. However, other nutrient components across plant parts and varieties showed no significant differences. The yield of crude fiber was higher in Lamuru corn leaves, but the yields of other nutrients across plant parts were generally similar. The contributions of stalks, leaves, and cobs to the overall biomass and nutrient yield did not significantly differ between the two varieties. The varieties were comparable in carrying capacity, average daily gain (ADG) potential, and milk yield estimates based on DM and crude protein. Conclusion: Although Pioneer P32 demonstrated superior DM content, the overall nutrient profiles and biomass yields of both varieties were similar, with no significant differences in carrying capacity, ADG potential, or milk yield. Therefore, further multiseason and multilocation studies are recommended to validate these findings under different environmental conditions.

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