MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Effect of Cordyceps militaris Residue and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on Fermentation Quality and Bacterial Community of Alfalfa Silage

Summary

This research shows that waste leftover from growing medicinal mushrooms (Cordyceps militaris) can be effectively reused as an additive to improve the quality of stored animal feed (alfalfa silage). When the mushroom residue was added, it boosted beneficial bacteria that produce lactic acid, which preserved the feed better and reduced ammonia content. This finding offers an environmentally friendly way to reduce waste while simultaneously improving livestock feed quality.

Background

Cordyceps militaris cultivation generates large amounts of solid medium residues and mycelial waste that are typically disposed through incineration or landfilling, causing environmental concerns. Previous research shows that herbal residues can be repurposed as silage additives to enhance fermentation quality. This study explores the feasibility of using Cordyceps militaris residue as a silage additive to reduce environmental burden while improving feed quality.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Cordyceps militaris residue alone and in combination with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on the fermentation quality, chemical composition, microbial population, and bacterial community composition of alfalfa silage during 45 days of ensiling.

Results

Compared to control, C. militaris residue and combined treatments increased lactic acid bacteria numbers and lactic acid content while decreasing pH and ammonia nitrogen. Bacterial diversity was higher in C. militaris residue group early but lower at late fermentation stages. Lactobacillus remained dominant at fermentation end, while Lactococcus abundance was higher on day 7 with C. militaris residue treatment.

Conclusion

Cordyceps militaris residue addition, alone or combined with L. plantarum, improved alfalfa silage quality by increasing lactic acid and lowering ammonia nitrogen. This provides a new approach for developing and utilizing Cordyceps militaris residue as a sustainable silage additive.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13081919, PMID: 40871423
Scroll to Top