ABSTRACT.
This study evaluated the nutritional characteristics of hay of nineteen hybrids between sorghum and Sudan grass. The experimental design was a randomized block with nineteen treatments and three replications. The chemical characteristics of the respective hays were analyzed 52 days after sowing and 45 and 49 regrowth days. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance, and when the F test was significant, the treatment means were compared by the Scott and Knott test at 5%. Genotypes 1013026 and 1014020 showed similar dry matter content. As for ether extract content, the highest values ranged from 2.20 to 2.66%. Higher values of minerals were observed in hybrids 1013026 and 1011005. In relation to crude protein, higher content values were reported for hybrids 1013021 and 1013020 (14.59 and 15.47% CP). When evaluating the neutral detergent fiber content, lower values varied between 56.05 and 57.07% for hybrids 1013016 and 1011009. Considering the content of acid detergent fiber, values ranged from 32.70 to 35.78%. Values of dry matter digestibility were higher than 50%. All hybrids provide quality hay, however the hybrid 1014019 showed the best nutritional value.
Keywords:
sudan grass; chemical composition; digestibility