Evaluation of nutritional value of different cuts of Canada Pennisetum glaucum stubble using the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System

Pennisetum glaucum is a new type of grass variety. The aim of this study was to determine the feed value of P. glaucum. The potential of P. glaucum as ruminant forage is discussed in depth. The yield and quality of forage were compared using multiple cuts of P. glaucum, and the protein and carbohydrate components were analyzed using the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS). The results showed that the dry matter content of the whole plant and stem was higher in the second crop than in the first crop (P < 0.05), and the crude protein content was highest in the leaves (22.46%), with significantly higher content in the second crop (P < 0.05). The acid detergent lignin content in stems in the second crop was 5.40%, which was lower than that in the first crop (P < 0.05). The quality of P. glaucum was better in the second crop than the first crop. In the components of the CNCPS, the content of acidic-detergent-insoluble protein was higher in the second crop than in the first crop (P < 0.05), whereas the soluble protein and starch content were lower than in the second crop than the first crop (P < 0.05). The rapid degradation of protein and carbohydrate components was higher in the first crop, while medium degradation was the main type in the second crop. The application of the CNCPS accurately evaluated the nutritional value of forage and reflected the utilization of forage by animals.