The objective of this study was evaluate five corn (Zea mays L.) hybrids, while the dry matter "in vitro" digestibility, organic matter of whole plant and of the stem, at different maturity stages. The treatments were used in plots of 7 x 8 m in a randomized block design, with four replicates. The samples collected, of corn hybrid Pioneer (P32R21, P30R07, P3041, P30F33 and P30F80), were adopted trying to estimate phases of maturity of the plant: 30, 34, 38, 42 and 46% of dry matter (DM)). In the whole plant were determinated the organic matter in vitro digestibility (IVOMD) and the dry matter in vitro digestibility (IVDMD). From the stem + sheath fraction, the neuter insoluble fiber in vitro digestibility (IVNDFD) and IVDMD was determinated. The IVDMD and IVNDFD the stem + sheath practicable did not variable after a grain formation (25% the DM plant), with exceptions at the hybrids P32R21 (increased) and P30F80 (decreased) presented at the greatest variations at 25 a 39% DM. A IVDMD and IVOMD the whole plant, practicable did not change after a grain formation, except for the P30F33 hybrid at fifteen percentage units. When the DM levels increased from 30 to 35%, the best coefficients of digestibility were observed from 30 to 38% DM level.
corn; digestibility; stages of maturation
