IV. Feed Biotechnology Division

            The first workplace in the former Czechoslovakia where serious research on forage ensiling was conducted at the turn of the fifties and sixties. Further research goals were oat haylage in the early seventies (BARANČIC), and in the next years, haylage of other cereals grown as companion crops in perennial forage crops (BARANČIC, PŘIKRYL). GPS silages were also studied. The method of divided corn harvest including product preservation was developed in the eighties (VÁCLAVÍK). Research on the ensiling of proteinaceous forage crops, especially grasses, was conducted continually (JAKOBE). Modifications in the evaluation of preserved feeds were adopted in 1970. This workplace participated in the introduction of new analytical methods of silage evaluation (chromatographic determination of fermentation acids, determination of protein degradation). An evaluation system for proteinaceous and glycide bulky preserved feeds was also established. Many chemical preservatives and probiotic additives (Silko, Lactisil, Mikrosil) were tested in view of their efficiency and safety (JAKOBE, PŘIKRYL, KOŽELUHOVÁ). In recent years, research has been focused on perfvrmance of new corn hybrids, with respect to silage properties (palatability, intake, nutrient digestibility). Proteinaceous forages are examined for protein quality (proteolysis degree and diamine production of toxins are studied). Contents of anti-quality components in the particular grass species are studied in grass silages, and aerobic stability is tested with respect to the preservative used. Complex evaluation of silages includes intake, palatability and nutrient digestibility (JAMBOR, DUFKOVÁ).

Ing. Ludmila Dufková, * 7th February 1963, has been working in the institute since 1986. She participates in a research project aimed at ensiling technology and ensiling preservatives used for forage ensiling. Her specialization is laboratory pot experiments.