Evaluation of Different Levels of Bocashi in the Production of Cenchrus Purpureus cv. King Grass in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Abstract

Introduction: Soil fertility is a crucial aspect for agricultural productivity, and bocashi is presented as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, which can be harmful to the environment.

Objectives: This study investigates the impact of different levels of bocashi on morphological and bromatological performance of Cenchrus purpureus cv. King Grass.

Methods: The research was carried out at the Centro Experimental de Investigación y Producción Amazónica CEIPA), using a randomized experimental design with four treatments: three doses of bocashi (20 kg, 25 kg and 30 kg) and a control group. Several morphological and bromatological variables were measured for 45 days.

Results: It was found that the treatment with 30 kg of bocashi (T₃) resulted in the highest levels of protein (13.04%) and crude fat (9.57%), indicating an improvement in the nutritional quality of the forage. In addition, it was observed that cutting age influences plant height, being a determining factor in the overall development of King Grass.

Conclusions: Bocashi improves some parameters of King Grass, although it was demonstrated that cutting age showed a significant effect on bromatological variables, with a decrease in crude protein and fat.