Effect of Feeding Unpeeled Cassava Mash as Substitute for Maize in Layers Diet on Egg Quality and Hematological Parameters

Abstract

The effect of feeding unpeeled cassava mash on layers to evaluate egg quality and hematological indices was investigated with one hundred and fifty birds that were thirty-four weeks old which were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments of 30 birds and replicated twice with fifteen birds each. The experiment lasted for 10 weeks in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Treatment 1 (100% maize) serves as control, while treatments 2, 3, 4 and 5 were 25% unpeeled cassava mash, 50% unpeeled cassava mash, 100% unpeeled cassava mash and 25% peeled cassava mash respectively. There was significant (P<0.05) difference in shell surface area, Egg length, Egg breadth, Egg shape index, shell thickness and yolk colour score in all the treatments, while other parameters measured were not significantly different. As for Heamatological indices. There was no significant difference in all parameters measured. Haemoglobin (Hb) increased slightly with increased levels of unpeeled cassava mash inclusion. In conclusion replacement of unpeeled maize up to 100% inclusion level has no deleterious effect on the birds but the best result that can compete favourably with maize is 50% inclusion level. Therefore 50% inclusion level is recommended to farmers to maximize production and achieve desired result.