Calibrations Using Near-infrared Spectroscopy to Determine the Nutritional Content and Chemical Composition of Hay and Silage of Pearl Millet

Abstract

Forages display essentially identical fodder; but ensiling procedures may alter the spectra of forages. The aim of this study was to predict the forage properties of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum [L.] R. Br.) and monitor the performance of pearl millet silage calibration models. Crude protein, crude ash, NDF, ADF, and ADL were all examined in the samples using NIR spectroscopy. High accuracy was demonstrated by the relative prediction determinant for validation of the NDF and ADF contents of pearl millet forages and silages. The equations predicted with a comparatively high degree of accuracy for protein, ash, and ADL. Even though the protein, ash, and ADL equations were utilized for screening, the relative prognostic prediction rates for calibration demonstrate that the NDF and ADF equations were suitable for the quantitative prediction of pearl millet silage fodder quality. The calibrations for pearl millet silage protein, ash, NDF, ADF and ADL resulted in $$R^2_C$$ between 0.853 and 0.997; SECV of 0.544, 0.474, 0.673, 0.728, and 0.385, respectively. We confirm the potential of NIRS to predict pearl millet and silage chemical composition. Future steps include determining the effect of pearl millet forage and silage on growth performance, digestibility potential, and feed potential in cattle.