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Publication Date
1977
Description
The investigations reported show a clear and constant difference in digestibility of organic matter (DOM) between the crosses 14 x 18 and 16 x 20. This difference cannot be explained by the differences obtained in the relationship between leaves and stems, through the differences in content of crude protein, fiber, or ash; nor can it be explained by the differences in the fiber composition. Sometimes it is proposed that the differences in DOM might be explained by differences in silica content, which is high in cocksfoot and is expressed by a high insoluble ash content. However, since the leaves have about three times more silica than the stems, the leaves ought to have a lower DOM compared to the stems. However, this is not the case. On the contrary, most fractions show a higher DOM in the leaves as compared to the stem. A more plausible explanation might be found in eventual d1fferences of the orientation of the hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin. In the cross with the higher digestibility, it might be a "looser" composition of the fiber, which would thereby be more easily affected by the rumen enzyme. Such an explanation could be confirmed in a histological analysis of the two plant types.
Citation
Julen, Gosta; Martensson, Per; and Sjdoin, Jan, "Investigations of quality factors in cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata)" (1977). IGC Proceedings (1977-2023). 10.
(URL: https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1977/sess10/10)
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Investigations of quality factors in cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata)
The investigations reported show a clear and constant difference in digestibility of organic matter (DOM) between the crosses 14 x 18 and 16 x 20. This difference cannot be explained by the differences obtained in the relationship between leaves and stems, through the differences in content of crude protein, fiber, or ash; nor can it be explained by the differences in the fiber composition. Sometimes it is proposed that the differences in DOM might be explained by differences in silica content, which is high in cocksfoot and is expressed by a high insoluble ash content. However, since the leaves have about three times more silica than the stems, the leaves ought to have a lower DOM compared to the stems. However, this is not the case. On the contrary, most fractions show a higher DOM in the leaves as compared to the stem. A more plausible explanation might be found in eventual d1fferences of the orientation of the hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin. In the cross with the higher digestibility, it might be a "looser" composition of the fiber, which would thereby be more easily affected by the rumen enzyme. Such an explanation could be confirmed in a histological analysis of the two plant types.
