Biomass quality of different genotypes of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) for animal feed

Abstract

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) originates from North America as one of the species found in the highland prairie. As an energy crop, it has great potential and is widely used in developed countries. It can be used for erosion prevention (due to a strong root system), bird feeding, and landscape architectural purposes (as an ornamental species). In low-quality soils, switchgrass provides protection against erosion and grass cover for grazing. In this paper, we examined the biomass quality of 14 genotypes of switchgrass for animal feed. The cutting of switchgrass was performed on the same day, including all the genotypes examined (mostly in the pre-flowering stage, or at the beginning of flowering). The following parameters of switchgrass biomass quality were analysed: crude protein, crude cellulose, fat content, ash content, NFE, ADF and NDF. In Serbia, this species can be a component of grass mixtures used in lesser quality soils and under dry agroecological conditions.

Keywords

• biomass
• quality
• panicum virgatum l.
• animal feeding