Novel strategy to understand the bacteria-enzyme synergy action regulates the ensiling performance of wheat straw silage by multi-omics analysis.

Background: Ensiling technology shows promise for preserving and providing high-quality forage. However, the high polymeric content and compact properties of fiber result in low biodigestibility. This study aimed to evaluate the use of ensiling technology for storing wheat straw. It also analyzed changes in fermentation-related products, chemical components, bacterial communities, and metabolite profiles of wheat straw ensiled with or without cellulase or Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum).

Results: The results showed that inoculation with L. plantarum, either alone or with cellulase, produced abundant organic acids, degraded fiber, suppressed most microbes, and increased certain metabolites in wheat straw silage. Wheat straw inoculated with L. plantarum, either alone or with cellulase, exhibited significantly lower neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber contents compared to the control treatment. Additionally, higher lactic acid and acetic acid contents were observed in these treatments. The microbiome analysis revealed that Lactobacillus was dominant, while Kosakonia was suppressed. Metabolic analysis showed a significant increase in amino acids, peptides, analogues, and organic acid derivatives.

Conclusions: Overall, wheat straw inoculated with L. plantarum, either alone or with cellulase, produced well-preserved silage, providing new insights into recycling and utilizing wheat straw through bacterial-enzyme synergy.