Dry matter genotypes of Cynodon by microwave and conventional oven methods

Abstract

The aimed of this work was to comparing the drying process in a microwave oven and forced air ventilation, as well as their effects on the chemical composition of different genotypes of the genus Cynodon (Tifton 85, Jiggs, Russell, Tifton 68 and Vaquero) collected at different ages cutting (28, 48, 63 and 79 days). The experimental design was a randomized block in a split-plot design, with 4 replicates. There was no difference (P>0.05) between the methods analyzed on the chemical composition of the genotypes studied. Increasing age cutoff negatively influenced (P<0.05) the crude protein content of the different plant parts. A significant increase (P<0.05) of dry matter, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and dry matter production was observed with increasing age cut. The use of the microwave oven is a quick and precise method obtain the dry matter content of the fodder showing efficiency similar to the method of drying in an oven with forced air circulation. The genotypes showed better chemical composition results when handled at age 28 days.

Keywords

• Jiggs
• Russel
• Tifton 68
• Tifton 85
• Vaquero