Abstract
The effect of Bulgarian product Vemoherb-T (dry extract of Tribulus terrestris) on some characteristics of the reproductive capacity of Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) was studied. A trial was conducted with 30 Pearl-gray Guinea fowls, at the age of 32 weeks, divided in two groups, 12 female and 3 male each. The birds from the two groups were fed the same mixture. The experimental group received the tested product once daily in a dose 10 mg/kg body weight for 12 weeks. The laying intensity, egg morphology and fertility, the weight of testes and ovaries were controlled. It was found a higher laying intensity (P<0.05), similarly higher egg weight (P<0.001), yolk weight (P<0.01), left testes weight (P<0.05) and egg fertility in the experimental group. No significant differences about egg white weight and yolk color between the both groups were found.
Highlights
The use of synthetic hormones as stimulators of reproductive performance in animal husbandry practice has a negative cumulative effect in animal products meant for the market
The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of the product Vemoherb T, produced by Vemo Ltd, Sofia, Bulgaria on some characteristics of breeder Guinea fowls reproductive capacity
The obtained results are in agreement with the data of other authors (Surdjiiska et al, 2005), who observed a tendency to increase the laying intensity (P>0.05) in hens given Tribulus terrestris extract once daily with the diet in a dose 10mg/kg body weight for 20 days
Summary
The use of synthetic hormones as stimulators of reproductive performance in animal husbandry practice has a negative cumulative effect in animal products meant for the market. Their further use is not preferable because of the detrimental effect on human health. An alternative of synthetic hormones is the use of plant extracts They are seen as natural feed additives, have been generally proven effective, non-toxic and well accepted by the public. Semerdjiev et al (2008) reported a positive effect of the product “Xtract” (multifunctional feed additive, which contains the following plant substances: Capsacin, cinnaldehyde and calvacrol) on egg fertility in hens. Bulgarian nutritional additive “Ovocap”, which contains capsacin, carotene and other biologically substances improved the reproductive parameters in cows (Petkova et al.,2008) hens and turkeys (Kitanov et al, 2003)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
