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Methane

Sorghum Silage May Be a Viable Alternative to Maize in Small-Scale Dairy Systems Affected by Climate Change

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Small-scale dairy systems in highland areas of central Mexico are facing significant challenges due to reduced rainfall or increased dry spells caused by climate change. Researchers at the Autonomous University have conducted a study to evaluate the use of sorghum silage as a potential alternative to maize in these systems. The study found that sorghum silage can be used as a substitute for maize silage without affecting milk yield, and it even reduces methane emissions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study evaluated the use of sorghum silage in small-scale dairy systems in central Mexico, where climate change is reducing rainfall or increasing dry spells.
  • Eight Holstein cows were assigned to two treatments: maize silage and sorghum silage, and their milk yield, fat and protein content, and methane emissions were recorded over 28 days.
  • Sorghum silage did not affect milk yield, but reduced milk fat content and dry matter intake.
  • The study found that sorghum silage can be a viable alternative to maize silage in small-scale dairy systems in highland areas, with lower methane emissions.
  • The research has been peer-reviewed and concluded that sorghum silage may be a forage alternative for small-scale dairy systems in the highlands of central Mexico.

Statistics:

  • 8 Holstein cows were used in the study, which were assigned to two treatments: maize silage and sorghum silage.
  • The study lasted for 28 days.
  • The amount of maize silage offered to cows was 9.5 kg DM/cow/day, while the amount of sorghum silage offered was 7.6 kg DM/cow/day.
  • The amount of alfalfa hay offered to cows was 2.4 kg DM/cow/day, and their dry matter intake was recorded.
  • The study recorded a significant reduction in methane emissions when sorghum silage was used in the diet.

Sources:

  • "Cow Performance and Methane Emissions From Sorghum Silage Diets In Small-scale Dairy Systems of Central Mexico." Tropical Animal Health and Production. 2025;57(8).
  • NewsRx. Study Data from Autonomous University Update Understanding of Global Warming and Climate Change (Cow Performance and Methane Emissions From Sorghum Silage Diets In Small-scale Dairy Systems of Central Mexico). Global Warming Focus. October 20, 2025; p 5026.

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