Degradation of Rice Straw with Microbial Consortium

Rice cultivation generates large amount of crop residues in which only 20% is utilised for industrial and domestic purpose. In developing countries especially in India, rice straw is used as part of feeding ingredient for the ruminants, however, due to its low protein content and high level of lignin and silica it has limited digestibility and nutrient value. For ultimate utilisation there is a need to improve its nutrient and promote its utilisation through ensiling. The factors that influence quality of silage depend upon the fermentation process used to enhance the nutrient recovery and improve in silage stability. This review emphasises in various aspects of silage process and microbial additives in order to improve fermentation of rice straw.