Effect of Yeast Culture on Growth Performance, Haematological and Biochemical Indices of New Zealand White Rabbits

Abstract

Effect of Sacchoromyces cerevisiae live yeast culture on growth performance, haematological and biochemical indices of rabbits was studied with 6-7 weeks old New Zealand white rabbits. Thirty male rabbits were divided equally into 3 groups; I.control group (basal diet), II.group (added S. cerevisiae, 2 g/kg diet) and III.group (added S. cerevisiae, 4 g/kg diet). Blood samples were obtained via ear venipuncture on the 85th day of feeding yeast of rabbits. No significant difference was observed in blood composition and growth performance by S. cerevisiae. Leukocyte, haematocrit and haemoglobin concentration slightly increased while serum cholesterol slightly decreased by S. cerevisiae (p>0.05). However, monocyte count (p<0.05) increased in groups fed 2 g/kg and 4g/kgS. cerevisiae. Yeast culture has a positive effect on immune system. Increased monocyte value by S. cerevisiae is beneficial in improving the immunity. On the other hand, other parameters of natural and induced immune system may be expressed to determine. So, more studies would be necessary to elucidate the effects of supplementing yeast on immunity and determine the optimum dietary concentration in animals.