Comparison between TaurusWebs and a laboratory for the bromatological analysis of Rodas grass (Pennisetum sp.): A case study in Santa Ana

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to compare the results of the Rodas grass (Pennisetum sp.) trial, utilizing TaurusWebs software, with those obtained using traditional laboratory methods, emphasizing on the variables protein, dry matter, net lactation energy, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and minerals. The research was conducted in two defined grassland areas in the Santa Ana canton, Manabí province, where an experimental design based on three samplings during periods of 15, 30, and 45 days was applied. The study considered various light conditions and three capture altitudes (20, 50, and 100 m a.s.l.) to evaluate the accuracy of the response to environmental variability. According to statistical runs, it is concluded that image analysis software is a viable and efficient tool for estimating protein, dry matter, and minerals in Rodas grass. However, limitations were identified in the prediction of energy and fiber fractions. These discrepancies do not invalidate the tool but rather stem from intrinsic differences between spectroscopy and laboratory chemical methods. On the other hand, its use should be seen as a support to the traditional method, especially when measuring fiber, because the values can vary greatly due to the way the processing algorithms work. These findings underscore the importance of promoting the use of digital technologies in local livestock management, optimizing nutritional decision-making in an agile and economical manner.