Energy Properties Potential of Novel Miscanthus Hybrids in the Plantation Establishment Phase
Summary
Miscanthus × giganteus J.M. Greef, Deuter ex Hodk., Renvoize (M. giganteus) is currently one of the most important energy crops in terms of the cultivation of dedicated crops. However, restricting biomass production to a sterile triploid hybrid may result in insufficient energy efficiency under various agroecological conditions. Therefore, current researches are focused on developing novel hybrids with higher tolerance to abiotic stresses, such as salinity or drought. Increasing the utilization of energy crops, i.e., the potential is achieved by increasing biomass yield and improving its energy properties under certain conditions. In this study, the biomass of five new Miscanthus hybrids (M. sacchariflorus x M. sinensis) and M. giganteus was used as control. The energetic properties were studied during the first two years of the cultivation period. Following the determination of biomass yield in fresh weight, dry matter content was also determined using standard methods, as well as the main energetic properties. Statistical data processing compared the energy potential of the new hybrids with each other and with that of the control hybrids. The results confirmed that there were specific changes in the energy properties of the new genotypes and the control hybrids during the establishment phase. In parallel with the increase in yield, it has a positive effect on energy efficiency and results from different genetic sources and adaptation to environmental conditions.
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