Effect of tea tree essential oil on Broussonetia papyrifera silage
This study aims to evaluate the effects of tea tree oil supplementation on the nutritional quality, fermentation characteristics, microbial counts, and bacterial community dynamics of paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) silage. A 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing approach is employed to comprehensively characterize the microbial community structure and diversity across different treatment groups. The primary goal is to reveal the shifts in the relative abundance of key lactic acid bacteria and undesirable spoilage microorganisms in response to varying concentrations of tea tree oil. Given that paper mulberry is a promising high-protein forage resource, optimizing its ensiling process is crucial for improving its preservation and nutritional value as animal feed. This study is significant for developing natural alternatives to antibiotic additives, such as essential oils, to enhance silage quality and reduce nutrient losses. The findings will provide fundamental insights into the microbiological mechanisms underlying the improved fermentation characteristics and aerobic stability, thereby supporting the sustainable utilization of paper mulberry as an alternative feed resource.