J. Anim Sci.
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J. Anim Sci. 1979. 49:183-191.
© 1979 American Society of Animal Science
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Nutritive Value of "Weathered" Sorghum Grain for Ruminants

R. E. Lichtenwalner1, L. W. Rooney2, J. A. Glueck3 and L. Reyes4

Texas Agricultural Experiment Station, College Station 77843

Abstract

Excessive rainfall and humidity on maturing sorghum resulted in varying degrees of sprout damage, discoloration and molds. Test weight and kernel hardness of weathered grains were less (P<.01) than nonweathered grains. Weathered grain contained more ash (P<.05) than identical grain harvested before the rains. Voluntary intake of weathered grain was less (P<.01) than nonweathered grain. Differences in intake were not diminished by cleaning or micronizing the grains. The reduction in intake appeared related to the dusty nature of the grain. Sheep discriminated against diets containing dry weathered grain but tolerated higher levels of weathered grain when 12.5% moisture was added to the diets. Although total tract digestibility was similar, in situ digestibility of weathered grain was higher (P<.001) than nonweathered grain. Twenty-four hour in situ DMD of weathered grain was positively (P<.05) correlated to physical indices of weathering. Weathered grain contained more particles of smaller size than nonweathered grain. These data indicate that weathering in sorghum does not detract from its nutritive value. Weathering adds dust to and causes physical changes in the kernel that present problems in the handling and perhaps intake of the grain. Because of the nature of ruminant diets and flexibility in its digestive process, ruminants can digest and perform similarly on weathered or normal grain diets.

Footnotes

1 Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University.

2 Department of Soil and Crop Science, Texas A&M University.

3 Goldkist Inc., E. Washington St., P.O. Box 644, Ashburn, GA 31714.

4 Research Scientist, Texas A&M Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Corpus Christi.






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