Growth-Stage dependent nutritional dynamics of super Napier grass

Abstract

The study was conducted during 2024-25 (September, 2024-February, 2025) at the Livestock Research Station, Vallabhnagar, Udaipur. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition of Super Napier grass harvested at three different growth stages 40, 60, and 80 days and to determine the optimal harvesting age for maximum nutritional value. Super Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum × Pennisetum glaucum) a high-yielding fodder crop known for its significant dry matter production. Samples were collected from the Livestock Research Station, Vallabhnagar, Udaipur, and subsequently dried, ground, and analyzed using proximate analysis. The analysis measured Dry Matter (DM), ash, Crude Fiber (CF), Crude Protein (CP), and fat content. Results indicated that CP content decreased and DM content increased significantly (p