PGPR-Driven Enhancement of Forage Traits in Pakchong, Biograss and Dwarf Napiergrass for Sustainable Livestock Feeding

Abstract

HistoryThe increasing demand for high-quality forage under land use constraints necessitates sustainable strategies to enhance productivity and nutritional value.This study investigates the effects of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) on the morphological traits, yield, fiber composition, and digestibility of three elephant grass varieties: Pakchong (Pennisetum purpureum cv.Pakchong), Biograss (Pennisetum purpureum cv.Biograss), and Dwarf Napiergrass (Pennisetum purpureum cv.Mott).PGPR was applied at varying levels to evaluate its impact on grass morphology and nutritional quality.Results revealed that PGPR significantly improved morphological parameters, including plant height, leaf area, and stem diameter, thereby increasing dry matter (DM) yield.PGPR also reduced fiber fractions, including Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), cellulose, and lignin, which are negatively correlated with forage digestibility.Enhanced digestibility was observed in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), in vitro ADF digestibility (IVADFD), in vitro NDF digestibility (IVNDF), in vitro cellulose digestibility (IVCD), and in vitro lignin digestibility (IVLD), with optimal responses varying across grass types and PGPR levels.With its high biomass potential and adaptability to marginal soils, Pennisetum purpureum benefits significantly from PGPR application, making it a strategic resource for livestock feed and bioenergy.In conclusion, PGPR is a growth booster and an environmentally friendly approach to improving forage quality and productivity, particularly in land-limited agricultural systems.Its integration into forage cultivation supports sustainable intensification and contributes to resilient livestock feeding strategies.

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