Published online by Cambridge University Press: 20 November 2017
Several techniques involving enzymes as alternatives to rumen fluid in in vitro studies have been proposed. However, high cost, ill-defined characterisation and high variation among enzyme preparations and batches have discouraged their use. In addition, most studies have aimed at determining dry matter degradability (DMD) at a fixed time, commonly 48 h. Consequently little information has been published concerning the DM degradation dynamics of forages incubated with enzymes. Therefore the objective of the present study was to compare the ability of a commercial enzyme mixture to describe the fermentation dynamics of two contrasting forages, using the ANKOM in vitro fermentation system (Daisy II, ANKOM Co, USA).