Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Chemical Changes During Silage Fermentation
Chemical change(s) occur during ensiling of green fodder is/are:
- Conversion of chlorophyll into "phaeophytin" which provide brown colour to silage
- Formation of amines like betaine, adenine and panta-methylene diamine responsible for off smell of silage
- Both correct — Correct Answer
- None
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Both correct
During ensiling, two major chemical transformations occur simultaneously: Chlorophyll is converted to phaeophytin (causing brown-olive colour) and protein degradation produces volatile amines (causing the characteristic off-smell of silage).
Chemical Changes During Ensiling
| Change | Mechanism | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Chlorophyll → Phaeophytin | Acid environment strips Mg²⁺ from chlorophyll | Brown/olive-green colour of good silage |
| Protein → Amines | Plant proteases & microbes break down proteins → betaine, adenine, cadaverine (pentamethylenediamine) | Characteristic off-smell/pungent odour |
Colour & Quality of Good Silage
- Good silage colour: Yellowish or Brownish-green (phaeophytin)
- Good silage pH: 3.5–4.2
- Good silage NH₃-N in total N: <10%
- Good silage butyric acid: Nil
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
