| Abstract: | The sequence of the effects of delayed and immediate sealed silos as well as the role of nutrient additives such as molasses and/or urea in the ensiling process of rice hulls and the subsequent nutritive value of the product has been shown. There were considerable variations in the chemical constituents during the ensiling of rice hulls among the different treatments under both delayed and immediate sealed silos. In all cases, when compared with the controls, the crude protein, soluble sugars, lactic acid, and fat contents were markedly increased, while the carbohydrate polymers and silica contents were significantly decreased. It was concluded that the treatment of rice hulls + 2% molasses for two months ensiling period under anaerobic conditions can be considered as the optimum conditions for the production of good quality silage from the low grade roughages rice hulls. Changes in pH values also confirmed the improving effect of the combination of molasses addition and the immediate sealing of the silos. |
