The effects of temperature on the silage microbiology and aerobic stability of corn and vetch-grain silages

Abstract

The purpose of the current work was to extend the study of the effect of temperature on silage microbiology, with or without formic acid, and on the aerobic stability of corn and vetch-grain silages.

The silage samples were ensiled in 1.0-l anaerobic jars, with and without formic acid, at room (20°C) or elevated temperatures (30–37°C). After 45 days of ensiling, the silages were subjected to an aerobic stability test at room (20°C) and elevated (30–37°C) temperatures. The most intensive deterioration occurred at 30–37°C. Samples incubated at 30–37°C had the highest yeast and mould count, most prolific CO₂ production.

The finding of the current study suggests that formic acid may decrease mould growth in silage samples. Unfortunately, formic acid does not reduce aerobic deterioration rate of silages. Applying a 5 g/kg formic acid on corn and vetch-grain silages was not very effective at high temperatures.

Keywords:

• Aerobic stability
• corn silage
• formic acid
• temperature
• vetch-grain silage