Pilot Study on Predictive Traits of Fresh Maize Hybrids for Estimating Milk and Biogas Production

Abstract

Farmers need information on which maize hybrid is best and under what conditions. They demand that this information be clear, simple and easily understood. This study aims to estimate the potential for milk production (MPP) and the biochemical methane potential (BMP) production from fresh maize hybrids. Using these indicators from fresh maize, information on the differences between hybrids can be effectively obtained, albeit with some of the shortcomings of this proposed method. Samples of fresh maize plants (n = 384) from four hybrids were evaluated at two locations over four consecutive years (from 2018 to 2021). The dry matter content, averaged across all hybrids, all years and both locations, was 371 ± 42.3 g.kg−1. The colder and wetter the year, the significantly higher the starch content, lower the amylase-treated neutral detergent fibre content (aNDF) and lower the crude protein (CP), which was reflected in lower BMP. Weather did not significantly affect the net energy of lactation (NEL) or MPP values. The location significantly affected all monitored indicators, except BMP. The earlier the hybrid was at harvest time, the lower the NEL and MPP but the higher BMP contents were. This study is preliminary and must be repeated with more hybrids and under more different conditions.