Effectiveness of Adding Molasses and Gambier Leaf Extract on The Quality of <i>Indigofera zollingeriana</i> Silage

Abstract Indigofera zollingeriana is a superior livestock feed with high nutrient content and abundant biomass. Seasonal variations in Indonesia typically affect its production levels. Silage technology can be employed ti prevent wastage og forage during abundant harvest seasons and ensure sufficient forage availability during lean periods in summer. High nutrient content in the forage, particularly protein, tends to break down during the effectiveness of adding molasses and gambier leaf extract as sources of phytochemical compounds on the quality of Indigofera zollingeriana silage and rumen fermentatitom in vitro. The study was designed using a completely randomized design with five treatments and five replocations. Treatments included T1: indigofera leaves without additives, T2: indigofera leaves + 2% molasses, T3: T2 + 1% gambier leaf extract, T4: T2 + 2% gambier leaf extract, T5: T2 + 4% gambier leaf extract. Results indicated that adding molasses and gambier leaf extract positively influenced silage quality, characterized by a pleasant odor, absence of fungus, firm texture, and green color. On the other hand, silage without additives has a foul odor, wet texture, and fungus growth, posing risks for livestock. The dry matter content of the silage increased with higher amounts of gambier leaf extrct additive. The best ammonia content from in vitro fermentation was observed in silage treated with 2% gambier leaf extraxt. In conclusion, molasses and gambier leaf extrxt additives enhance the quality of Indigofera zollingeriana silage, with the optimal addition being 2%.