Advances in Silage Science: From Fundamentals to Future Applications - Optimizing silage production in tropical...

The expansion and intensification of livestock systems in tropical regions have increased the demand for high-quality silage as a key component of dairy and beef production. This review provides an overview of current advances and emerging strategies to optimize silage production and utilization under tropical conditions. Tropical agriculture plays a central role in global milk and beef supply, and silage is being increasingly used not only to mitigate seasonal forage shortages but also to support year-round feeding in confined systems. In tropical regions, elevated temperatures affect silage systems from the seed to the feed bunk by altering silage yield, nutritive value, fermentation, and aerobic stability. Whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) has become the primary forage source in intensive dairy and beef operations; therefore, optimizing hybrid selection, agronomic practices, harvest maturity, and processing is critical to maximizing its feeding value. Advances in WPCS harvesting technologies, particularly the adoption of self-propelled forage harvesters equipped with kernel processors, have enhanced both kernel fragmentation and particle size distribution. In addition, WPCS conservation has improved through proper silo filling, packing, and feed-out management, as well as the use of modern sealing systems and silage additives, particularly heterofermentative inoculants. Tropical grass silages are expanding as complementary forage sources due to their agronomic resilience. However, tropical grasses are considered difficult to ensile, mainly because of their high moisture content and low soluble carbohydrate concentration. Increasing DM through wilting has proven to be an effective strategy for reducing clostridial fermentation in tropical grass silages. Moreover, chemical additives with anticlostridial activity have demonstrated efficacy in controlling undesirable fermentations in direct-cut wet silages. Currently, grain silages have expanded significantly as a method of harvesting, storing, and improving starch utilization. Partial and TMR silages are also gaining attention, especially in smallholder systems. Overall, the development and adoption of new technologies are transforming tropical agriculture, allowing the sustainable production of high-quality silage. Policies that convey novel information to farmers worldwide might reduce silage quality variation, improve animal production efficiency and sustainability, and continue to expand the central role of silage in food production and socioeconomic development in tropical regions.