Effect of drought stress on in vitro neutral detergent fiber digestibility of corn for silage

The objective of this study was to determine the effect drought stress on neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and lignin (LIG) concentrations in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) (IVNDFD) leaf blades stem internodes corn for silage. Eight plots were blocked (i.e., 4 blocks) randomly subjected a watered (W) or non-watered (NW) treatment. Within each block, split into 7 sub-plots, which 1 hybrids assigned. Before planting, all irrigated with 150 mm water ensure consistent emergence seedlings. After pre-planting irrigation, NW not ever again. W 225 360 pre-tasseling post-tasseling, respectively. Stem from second phytomer below (LOWER) above (UPPER) ear insertion collected tissue composition digestibility. Drought increased concentration NDF both (628 vs. 613 mg NDF/g DM) (625 572 DM). decreased IVDMD (0.575 0.525 IVDMD) but had no (0.561 IVDMD). Similarly, IVNDFD (0.422 0.391 IVNDFD) (0.536 IVNDFD). cell wall (161 141 mg/g CW) (266 CW). Under conditions study, supply minimal did increase latter observation is contrary general industry belief that increases forages.