The effects of different dry matter and molasses on the fermentation characteristics and nutrient value of a total mixed ration silage

Objective: The nutritional values and fermentation characteristics of total mixed ration (TMR) silage ensiled with different dry matter (DM) and molasses levels was investigated. Material and Methods: Wheat straw was mixed with a concentrate at equal levels and tap water was added to get dry matter (DM) levels of 35, 45 and 55 %. Afterwards, 2 and 4% molasses were added to these 3 ensiling groups. Total mixed (TMR) rations were ensiled in 1.0 L anaerobic jars with 3 replicates. A total of 54 jars of TMR silage were produced in the study (2 molasess level x 3 DM level x 3 opening time x 3 replicate). Three jars from each group were opened on the 7., 60., and 180. days after ensiling. Fermentation characteristics and nutritional values of silages were determined on the TMR silages which were opened on the 180. day Result: The decrease in pH values with prolonged of fermentation time in TMR silages was not observed in the group that was ensiled with 35 % DM and containing 2% molasses. At the end the study, the lowest pH values were determined in TMRs ensiled with 45 and 55% DM level and containig 4 % molasses. At the end of study, the TMRs that were ensiled with 45% and 55% DM were well fermented and contained less NDF, ADF and crude ash. Increasing molases level in these groups were also decrease the silage pH Conslusion: As a result of the study, it was determined that DM and nutrient losses would be high when TMR was ensiled in low DM. DM. It is evaluated that the TMR silages must contain 45% and 55% DM at the time of ensiling. Keywords: Wheat Straw, Total Mixed Ration, Silage, Molasses, Dry Matter