Biological features of Isatis tinctoria and the quality of ensiled biomass under the conditions of the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

We studied some biological features and the quality of the silage prepared from Isatis tinctoria plants cultivated in the experimental plot of the “Alexandru Ciubotaru” National Botanical Garden (Institute), Chisinau, R. Moldova. In the second growing season the local ecotype of Isatis tinctoria was characterized by fast growth and development rate, reaching 118-147 cm in height, with a content of leaves and inflorescences of 57%. It has been determined that the dry matter of ensiled mass from the local ecotype of Isatis tinctoria was characterized by 196 g/kg CP, 160 g/kg ash, 314g/kg CF, 335 g/kg ADF, 521 g/kg NDF, 37g/kg ADL, 298 g/kg Cel, 201g/kg HC with nutritive value 628 g/kg DDM, 10.16 MJ/kg ME, 6.18 MJ/kg NEl and RFV=112, this fact indicates an optimal quality of the silages prepared for ruminants. The biochemical methane production potential of Isatis tinctoria silage substrates reached 361 L/kg VS. The ensiled biomass from the local ecotype of Isatis tinctoria can be used as alternative forage for ruminant animals, or as substrates in biogas generators for the production of renewable energy.