The objective of the study is to determine the effect of bacterial inoculants based on Bacillus subtilis and a complex of lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus kefiri) on corn ensiling, including assessing their preservative effect, fermentation dynamics, reducing mycotoxicogenic load, and improving the nutritional properties of silage. The study was conducted under production conditions at Priamurye LLC in the Tambovsky District of the Amur Region from 2021 to 2023. Mashuk 171 corn hybrid, inoculated with biostarters based on Bacillus subtilis and lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus kefiri, was used for silage production. Control variant – n additives. The experiment involved three groups of black-and-white Holstein cows, formed during the dry period according to the principle of balanced analog groups (control (basic diet) and two experimental (basic diet + silage inoculated with different types of bacteria). Treatment of corn biomass with inoculants accelerated the fermentation process, reduced the pH to 3.95–3.98 by the 60th day of ensiling, increased lactic acid concentration to 72.7 g/kg dry matter, and suppressed the growth of toxigenic fungi. T-2 toxin levels decreased by 8–14 %, and aflatoxin levels by 25–30 % compared to the control. The use of bacterial preparations improved the nutritional value of the silage: sugar content increased to 20.96 g/kg, carotene to 25.19 mg/kg, and crude fiber levels decreased by 13–16 %. A significant advantage of the inoculants was increased aerobic stability of the silage, reduced the risk of spoilage during storage, and reduced the likelihood of mycotoxicosis in farm animals. The data obtained confirm that the use of bacterial preservatives is an effective way to improve the quality of corn silage, which is especially important for dairy farming. The study's results can be used to develop recommendations for optimizing ensiling technology, reducing nutrient losses, improving feed safety, and enhancing cow productivity and milk quality.
Shevchuk et al. (Fri,) studied this question.