Effect of Different types of Silage on Milk Yield and Composition in Sri Lankan Dairy Cows
Jayathilaka MIG* and Sumanasekara GS
ABSTRACT
Dairy cattle feeding is a critical component of the dairy production system, as it underpins overall herd health, productivity, and sustainability. In tropical countries such as Sri Lanka, dairy farming is strongly influenced by bimodal monsoon patterns followed by prolonged dry spells, resulting in seasonal fluctuations in forage availability. Consequently, feed conservation strategies, particularly silage production, play a vital role in ensuring a consistent year-round supply of quality forage. Across the diverse agro-ecological zones of Sri Lanka, dairy farmers utilize a range of locally available raw materials for silage preparation. This study evaluates the effects of different types of silage on milk yield and milk composition of dairy cows in selected regions of Sri Lanka. Milk production parameters, including daily milk yield and compositional traits such as fat, protein, and total solids, were assessed and compared among cows fed different silage types. The findings of this study provide insights into the suitability and nutritional effectiveness of various silage materials under tropical conditions and offer practical recommendations to optimize feeding strategies and improve dairy productivity in Sri Lanka
