Glyphosate effects in lignin, cellulose and fiber contents in Brachiaria decumbens

Abstract

This study aimed to quantify the levels of fiber, cellulose and lignin in Brachiaria decumbent dossel, submitted to different doses of glyphosate. The experiment was carried out in a pasture area containing Brachiaria decumbens at Fazenda Experimental Lageado, FCA/UNESP, Botucatu County, São Paulo State. Treatments consisted of five glyphosate doses (36, 72, 180, 360 and 720 g ha-1) and an untreated control, by using a randomized complete block design with four replications. For herbicide application, a backpack sprayer pressurized by CO2 and equipped with a spray bar with four nozzles DG11002 VS was used, spaced 0.5 m, with solution volume of 200 L ha-1 . In general, it could be observed that fiber contents were not affected by glyphosate application and that all applied doses promoted increase in cellulose levels, 60 days after application. Glyphosate application reduced levels of lignin from 30 days after herbicide application, improving Brachiaria decumbens digestibility by reducing levels of lignin in plant.