In vitro Fermentation Profile and Methane Production of Kikuyu Grass Harvested at Different Sward Heights

Highly digestible forages are associated with an in vitro low-methane (CH 4 ) rumen fermentation profile and thus the possibility of reducing CH emissions from forage-based systems. We aimed to assess ruminal profile, including production, top stratum Kikuyu grass ( Cenchrus clandestinus - Hochst. ex Chiov harvested at different sward heights (10, 15, 20, 25, 30 cm). Herbage samples (incubating substrate) were analyzed for their chemical composition, organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), morphological components. In incubations performed under a randomized complete block design four independent runs each treatment. Gas production (GP), dry (IVDMD), total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration, acetate, propionate, butyrate proportions measured following 24 48 h incubation. had similar contents matter, neutral detergent fiber, crude protein all treatments. However, higher fiber (ADF) content taller than smaller tendency metabolizable energy (ME) IVOMD decrease as height increased found. Similarly, stem + sheath mass tended increase increasing height. Amongst nutrients, ME r = −0.65) IVDMD −0.64) negatively correlated p < 0.001) ADF was positively 0.73, 0.001). Both GP related both incubation times. Sward below cm display VFAs high propionate low trend toward lower methane per unit IVDMD. These findings important aid decision-making on optimal manage animal grazing opportunity reduce production.