The Use of Lactobacillus in Forage Storage and Processing, 2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

The use of Lactobacillus, a genus of lactic acid bacteria, has gained prominence in forage storage and processing due to its beneficial effects on fermentation and preservation. Lactobacillus species convert sugars into lactic acid through fermentation, reducing the pH and inhibiting spoilage microorganisms. This presents advantages such as improved preservation, reduced nutrient losses, and enhanced animal performance. Researchers have aimed to explore the application of Lactobacillus in forage storage, focusing on strain isolation, characterization, and selection. The optimization of growth conditions and parameters for Lactobacillus in different forage types and storage systems will be investigated. Interactions between Lactobacillus and Lactococcus or Pediococcus will be studied in order to understand their contributions to improved forage preservation.

The impact of Lactobacillus on the nutritional composition of ensiled forage, including changes in crude protein, fiber, and nutrient content, will be assessed. Additionally, the production of metabolites and bioactive compounds during fermentation will be examined. Practical aspects of Lactobacillus implementation, such as inoculation strategies and dosages, will be addressed in order to optimize its introduction and proliferation in ensiled forage. The economic feasibility and cost-effectiveness of Lactobacillus as a preservation strategy will also be evaluated.

We welcome submissions that are on, but are not limited, the following subtopics:

• The isolation and characterization of Lactobacillus strains for forage storage and processing.
• The optimization of growth conditions and parameters for Lactobacillus activity in different forage types and storage systems.
• The effects of functional Lactobacillus on metabolites and bioactive compounds in ensiled forage, as well as on animal performance.
• Practical application methods for introducing Lactobacillus into forage storage.

Prof. Dr. Tao Shao
Dr. Jie Zhao
Dr. Lin Mu
Dr. Hao Guan
Dr. Qiming Cheng
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• emerging forage
• bacterial inoculant
• bioactive compounds
• metabolite
• silage
• microbial ecology
• enzyme
• animal health