Influência da densidade de compactação sobre a qualidade da silagem de milho no Sudoeste do Paraná

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the influence of packing density on maize silage quality on farms in southwest Paraná. The justification for this work is the need to optimize silage production to ensure high-quality feeding for the herd, which is essential for the productive and economic efficiency of rural properties. The main objectives are to evaluate the influence of silage density on bromatological and fermentation parameters and to identify best practices to improve silage quality. The adopted methodology included the collection of samples in 15 municipalities of the region, following a specific “W-pattern” sampling and homogenization protocol. Samples were analyzed for bromatological composition (dry matter, starch content and digestibility, neutral detergent fiber and its digestibility, crude protein, total digestible nutrients and kernel processing score) and particle-size distribution, alongside density measurements and quality assessment via the Silage Quality Index (SQI). The analysis was conducted on two distinct density treatments: low (484 kg FM/m³) and adequate (628 kg FM/m³). Results indicated that the adequate density treatment significantly (P < 0.05) increased crude protein, NDF digestibility and total digestible nutrients, and boosted milk yield by 8 % per ton of silage compared to the low-density treatment. Starch digestibility tended to improve under higher density (P = 0.085). No significant effects were observed on total starch content or SQI, but mean retained particle size differed between treatments (P = 0.036). It was concluded that practices promoting adequate compaction of maize silage lead to enhanced nutritional quality and greater productive potential, underscoring the importance of correct ensiling management to maximize dairy cow performance.