Bioenergetic Principles of Selection of the Original Material of African Millet

Increase in livestock production is possible only with the creation of a solid forage base. Production and procurement of grass forage is currently carried out using the traditional range of forage crops. However, in conditions characterized by a lack of moisture and high temperatures, the cultivation of crops that provide high yields in extreme conditions is of great importance for stabilizing and increasing forage production. The article presents the results of scientific research on the formation of productivity and qualitative composition of green mass of African millet in order to determine the possibility of its cultivation in the Lower Volga region and use as green forage and for the preparation of canned forage. An assessment of 30 varieties of African millet (Pennisétum gláucum) was carried out based on biochemical indicators of the quality of aboveground biomass, promising varieties were identified for further breeding work. Breeding is carried out in scientific institutions and on experimental data. It was concluded that African millet is quite suitable for cultivation in dry conditions and is recommended for use for feed purposes (hay, silage, grain forage).