Physiological Indices of Four Broiler Strains on Feed Restriction in the Middle Belt of Nigeria.

Abstract

In an attempt to improve broiler strains to gain more profit through feed restriction, the physiological implications should be considered. Against this backdrop, Hubbard, Kucbor, Arbor Acre and Pawl broiler strains were allotted to ad libitum, 2hrs, 4hrs and 6hrs feed restriction groups. Results showed highest heart weight value (12.5g) in Hubbard and Kucbor strains fed ad libitum and 4hrs feed restricted groups respectively. Liver weight value was superior (59.9g) in 2hrs feed restricted Arbor Acre followed by 54.7g in Pawl strain. Cholesterol level was highest (7.6Mmol/l) in ad libitum fed Hubbard strain and least (3.9Mmol/l) in 6hrs feed restricted Arbor Acre strain. Protein and urea levels ranged from 54.7 – 65.1g/l and 1.8 – 3.5Mmol/l respectively across the treatments. Packed cell volume (13 – 21%), white blood cell (71 – 94 X 10 9 /l) and red blood cell (1.27 – 1.63 X 10 12 /l) values were recorded. Feed intake did not result in excess perirenal fat accumulation and live weight value was close (2.1 to 2.41kg) across the treatments. This suggested that broiler strains in feed restricted groups probably ate to meet up their physiological needs whenever feed was made available. Therefore, feed restriction in the zone may not be a worthwhile venture.