Authors : Dilek Aksu Elmali and Metin Duru
Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore the usability of different levels of malic acid as a vetch (Vicia sativa L.) additive. Vetch was used in this trial as the silage material. Groups with five repetitions which contained different levels of malic acid, i.e., 0-5 g kg-1 (M0-M5, respectively) were formed vetches cut in a mean length of 1.5-2 cm were ensiled in jars of approximately 1 L which let merely gas out. Physical, chemical and microbiological analyses were conducted on the silage which was opened on the 120th day after it was ensiled. During physical analyses, only the group which had been added 5 g kg-1 of malic acid was evaluated to have obtained the full score in each parameter, namely in smell, outer view and color. With the addition of malic acid, significant increases in dry matter, crude protein and nitrogen free extract values were observed (p<0.001) in groups M3-M5 while the same groups showed reduction in crude fiber and crude ash values (p<0.001). Lactic acid bacteria count was found to be below the detection limit in the control group while it was found to be above the detection limit in the groups which were added malic acid. Furthermore, the existence of mould was confirmed in the control group. In conclusion, it was evaluated that chemical, physical and microbiological qualities could increase with the addition of malic acid to the vetch silage.
Dilek Aksu Elmali and Metin Duru, 2012. Effects of Different Levels of Malic Acid on the Some Quality and Micro Flora of Vetch (Vicia sativa L.) Silage. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 11: 1651-1655.