Evaluation of elephant grass, vacuum compressed in horizontal silos, using heifers in an automated feeding system

Abstract

In order to evaluate the efficiency of vacuum compressing of elephant grass (Pennisetum pupureum Schum, in horizontal silos, this system was compared with that of compression by tractor. Mixed Holstein-Friesan-Zebu heifers fed exclusively on silage in continuous automated feeding system were used. Neither differences in the nutritive value of the silages, weight gain nor animal behavior were observed in heifers using these systems.