Broiler Chicks Of Strain Research Articles

422 The use of 3D kinematics for improved gait assessment in broilers

Abstract Genetic selection for high growth rates in broiler chickens has resulted in larger broilers and changes in broiler gait. Traditionally, broiler gait is assessed using visual observation which is subjective and labor intensive. In contrast, newer technologies are available which can be adapted to objectively score changes in broiler gait, thereby, increasing the validity and reliability of gait scoring with less labor required. The objective of this study was to compare the use of 3D kinematics versus visual scoring to assess broiler gait. Second, to determine how strain and age affect 3D kinematic gait metrics in broilers. Four strains of broiler chickens were used; two heritage strains: 1957 (H57; n = 52) and 1977 (H77; n = 51); and two commercially available strains: Cobb (n = 50) and Ross (n = 53). All broilers were weighed weekly throughout the study. Kinematic markers were placed along the spine and bony landmarks of each leg. Commercial strains had kinematic recordings and body weights (BW) recorded every week for 4 wk while Heritage strains had measurements recorded every week for 6 wk. Visual gait scoring was completed using a 5-point scale each week by two trained observers. Data were analyzed using the correlation procedure in SAS to determine the relationship between visual gait score and kinematic metrics as well as the GLIMMIX procedure to determine the effects of strain, age, and strain x age on all gait parameters. There was a weak positive correlation (r < 0.2) between visual gait score and all kinematic metrics. Cobb were the heaviest strain (1,292.6 ± 14.71 g P < 0.001) while H57 broilers were the lightest (326.4 ± 9.99 g P < 0.001). Each week, the BW of all strains increased significantly. Total Stride Time differed significantly by strain (P < 0.001; Cobb: 26.3 ± 0.47 cs, Ross: 23.1 ± 0.39 cs, H77: 23.7 ± 0.28 cs, H57: 21.5 ± 0.26 cs) and Age (P < 0.01; Commercial: wk 3: 21.8 ± 0.54 cs, wk 6: 28.1 ± 0.68 cs and Heritage: wk 3: 19.7 ± 0.42 cs, wk 8: 25.4 ± 0.52 cs). Total stride length (SL) also significantly differed by strain. Cobb had the longest SL of the two commercial strains (P < 0.001; 88.6 ± 1.94 mm) while H77 had the longest stride of the heritage strains (97.9 ± 1.51 mm). Total SL also increased with age resulting in longer stride times. Heavier birds, such as Cobb, had longer stride Times and SL compared with lighter birds such as the H57 strain. In conclusion, visual gait score and kinematic metrics were not found to be measuring the same things. However, kinematics can be a used as an informative and objective tool for assessing gait metrics associated with broiler lameness such as changes in stride length and stride time.

Classification of Behaviour in Conventional and Slow-Growing Strains of Broiler Chickens Using Tri-Axial Accelerometers.

Behavioural states such as walking, sitting and standing are important in indicating welfare, including lameness in broiler chickens. However, manual behavioural observations of individuals are often limited by time constraints and small sample sizes. Three-dimensional accelerometers have the potential to collect information on animal behaviour. We applied a random forest algorithm to process accelerometer data from broiler chickens. Data from three broiler strains at a range of ages (from 25 to 49 days old) were used to train and test the algorithm, and unlike other studies, the algorithm was further tested on an unseen broiler strain. When tested on unseen birds from the three training broiler strains, the random forest model classified behaviours with very good accuracy (92%) and specificity (94%) and good sensitivity (88%) and precision (88%). With the new, unseen strain, the model classified behaviours with very good accuracy (94%), sensitivity (91%), specificity (96%) and precision (91%). We therefore successfully used a random forest model to automatically detect three broiler behaviours across four different strains and different ages using accelerometers. These findings demonstrated that accelerometers can be used to automatically record behaviours to supplement biomechanical and behavioural research and support in the reduction principle of the 3Rs.

Effect of L-Glycine on Carcass Parameters, Blood Biochemicals, and Jejunal Histomorphometry of Commercial Broiler Chicken

A study was conducted for duration of six weeks on 240, day-old Cobb-430Y broiler strain chicks and randomly distributed to four groups each containing three replicates and 20 chicks per replicate. Group A was Negative Control (NC) contained 3% Low Protein (LP) diet containing 19.50, 18.00 and 16.50% crude protein (CP) for broiler pre-starter, starter and finisher phases, respectively. Positive Control (PC) group B contained standard protein 22.50, 21.00, and 19.50% CP as per breeder recommendation. No L-Glycine was added to NC and PC diets. Group C (NC+Gly1) was formulated by adding 0.640, 0.810, and 0.630% L-Glycine in NC diet to arrive 2.30, 2.30, and 2.00% digestible (Dig.) Gly + Ser levels while group D (NC+Gly2) was formulated by supplementation of 0.755, 0.985, and 0.740% L-Glycine in NC diet to arrive 2.40, 2.40, and 2.10% digestible Gly + Ser levels in broiler pre starter, starter and finisher diets respectively. Digestible Gly + Ser levels of NC group were 1.71, 1.56 and 1.43%; and of PC group were 2.02, 1.91 and 1.76%, respectively for broiler pre starter, starter and finisher diets. Ratio of dig. Met, Thr, Trp, Arg, and Val. ratioed to Lys. were balanced in all diets. All diets were isocaloric (3010, 3100, and 3200 kcal ME /kg) for broiler pre starter, starter and finishaer phases, respectively. Results showed that the L-Glycine supplementation in AA-balanced 3% LP diet did not affect per cent eviscerated yield, giblet yield, ready-to-cook yield, and breast meat yield but helped to reduce abdominal fat without altering serum biochemical parameters. Dig. Gly + Ser levels of 2.30, 2.30, and 2.00% (L-Glycine levels of 0.640, 0.810, and 0.630%) in 3% low protein (19.50, 18.00, and 16.50% CP) for broiler pre starter, starter and finisher diets helps to improve jejunal crypt depth leads to increasing cell renewal rate and maturation in the gut. Incorporation of L-Glycine is recommedded to maintain Dig. Gly + Ser levels of 2.30, 2.30, and 2.00% in broiler pre starter, starter and finisher phases with reduction of 3% CP in breeder recommended commercial broiler diet. Reducing dietary crude protein using L-Glysine without harming broiler performance could be economical.

Influence of in ovo administration of oyster mushroom extract on morphological and histological responses of intestines of broiler chickens.

This study investigated the influence of in ovo administration of oyster mushroom aqueous extract on intestinal development of broiler chickens. A total of 600 hatching eggs of Arbor acre strain of broiler chickens were used in this experiment. The eggs were divided into three treatments; T1: Control (non-injected eggs), T2: in ovo administration of 0.1 ml of oyster mushroom aqueous extract and T3: in ovo administration of 0.2 ml of oyster mushroom aqueous extract. In ovo injection of eggs was carried out on the 18th day of incubation and hatched chicks were brooded for 2 weeks and the experiment lasted for six weeks. At the starter and finisher (7th and 56th days of age) phases, two birds per replicate were randomly selected for intestinal evaluation. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance using General Linear Model. Results from the starter phase showed jejunal villus height significantly (p<0.05) ranged from 290.62 µm in birds in T1 to 415.60 µm in birds in the T3 group. Moreover, jejunal crypt depth ranged from 51.96 µm to 115.62 µm, while muscular wall thickness ranged from 53.94 µm to 139.23 µm with the highest recorded in the T2 birds. In finisher broilers, there was significant (p<0.05) difference among treatments for duodenum length, muscular wall thickness of the ileum and colon length. Histological plates taken in the starter phase indicated no visible lesion in the villi across treatments with crypts appearing normal. However, finisher broilers in the T2 group had preeminent villi representation showing intact enterocytes and slightly high and more prominent crypts. Therefore, to improve jejunal morphology in the starter phase as well as increased intestinal length and superior duodenal histology in the finisher phase of broiler chickens, in ovo administration of 0.1 ml oyster mushroom aqueous extract is recommended.

A comparative study on the expression of myogenic genes, and their effects on performance and meat quality in broiler chicken strains.

The aims of current investigation were to study the growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality and expression profile of Myostatin (MSTN), Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I), Myogenin (MyoG) and Myogenic regulatory factor 4 (MRF4) genes in three commercial broiler strains including Ross (Ross 308), Cobb (Cobb 500), and Arian in 2023. A total number of 240 one-day-old chicks were reared under an equalized standard management condition for 6 weeks. Performance, organ weights, meat quality and the expression level of the myogenic genes in the pectoral muscle were investigated. The lowest body weight (BW), feed intake, weight gain and highest feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed for Arian at the end of the study. The meat quality was similar between strains. The IGF-I expression level was significantly higher on 42 days of age in Cobb compared to Ross and Arian. The MRF4 expression level was significantly higher on 28 days of age in Cobb compared to Ross. The MyoG expression level was significantly lower in Arian compared to Cobb on 42 days of age. Furthermore, the MSTN expression level was significantly lower in Cobb compared to Ross and Arian on 42 days of age. The remarkable differences in gene expression levels at the end of the rearing period was supported by higher growth performance and BW of Cobb compared to Ross and Arian strains. In conclusion, the findings of current study could conveniently help assess the performance of these broiler strains under similar rearing condition.

Synbiotic supplements as antibiotic alternatives in broiler diets

Antibiotics can contribute to bacterial resistance, posing a significant public health concern. Synbiotics represent an effective alternative to antibiotics, promoting the balance of intestinal microbiota and creating a conducive environment for beneficial bacteria growth. This study aimed to assess the utility of the synbiotic supplement (+Poultry) as a substitute for antibiotics in broiler diets from 1 to 42 days of age. We evaluated its impact on performance during two stages: 1 to 21 days and 1 to 42 days, digestibility coefficients, metabolizable energy, duodenum and jejunum morphometry, carcass yield, and hematological parameters. A total of 440 Ross 308 strain broiler chicks, both males and females, were accommodated in 2m² cages from day 1 to day 42. The birds were randomly assigned to four treatments, with each treatment having five replications consisting of 22 birds, thus forming 20 experimental plots. The treatment groups were as follows: Basal diet (BD) without the addition of antibiotics or synbiotics, BD with 150ppm zinc bacitracin (BCZ), BD with 0.5kg/t of synbiotic, and BD with 1kg/t of synbiotic. The synbiotic supplement (+Poultry) used in this experiment, provided by Nutri+, contained amino acids, minerals, probiotic culture, prebiotic additives, and flavoring additives. Throughout the experiment, all birds were subjected to a weekly sanitary challenge, which involved using reused litter and water contaminated with litter. Treatment effects were observed on feed conversion (P = 0.0100) of broilers aged 1 to 21 days, indicating improved feed conversion in broilers consuming BD + 1kg/t synbiotic compared to BD alone. Consequently, we recommend the incorporation of a synbiotic supplement at a rate of 1kg/t as a viable antibiotic replacement for chickens aged 1 to 21 days. The tested synbiotic supplement shows promise as an antibiotic alternative in broiler diets at all life stages, maintaining both performance and bird health.

Effect of zinc oxide nano-particles supplementation on the histoarchitecture of small intestine of broilers

In this study, a total 240 Vencobb strain broiler chicks were randomly divided into 3 groups. The broilers fed with basal diet were kept as control group (C), while T1 and T2 groups broilers were fed with zinc oxide nanoparticles @45 mg/kg and @90 mg/kg of basal diet, respectively. Eight chicks out of each group were sacrificed at an interval of 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days and tissue samples from different parts of small intestine (duodenum, jejunum and ileum) from each bird were collected, processed, stained and studied for various micrometrical parameters. Histomorphometrical parameters of small intestines showed significantly increasing trend with the advancing age in control, T1 and T2 groups. Significantly higher histomorphometrical parameters of small intestines were recorded inzinc oxide nano-particle supplemented groups when compared to control. Zinc oxide nanoparticle supplementation @90 mg/kg diet in feed of broilers significantly improved histomorphometric characteristics, viz. villus height of duodenum, jejunum and ileum; villus width of ileum, width of muscularis laminae in duodenum and ileum and height of epithelial cells in all three segments of small intestine. Therefore, it is concluded that zinc oxide nanoparticle can be used as a diet supplement for increasing the overall performance in broiler chicks during their growth period, however, supplementation of zinc oxide nanoparticle @90 mg/kg gave better result in broilers for overall better performance.

Effect of Adding L-Arginine to Broiler Diets on Physiological Performance

This research was conducted in the poultry sector of the Department of Animal Production, College of Agriculture, University of Anbar, from October 26, 2022, to December 7, 2022 (42 days). The objective was to compare the effects of incorporating different levels of L-Arginine and vitamin C on the productive and physiological performance of broiler chickens. One hundred and fifty Ross 308 strain broiler chicks, aged one day and of unspecified sex, were utilized in the study. The chicks were individually weighed and randomly assigned to five experimental groups, each consisting of three replicates with ten birds per replicate. The treatments consisted of the following: First treatment Control group (no additives), Second treatment: Addition of arginine at a rate of 1 g/kg of feed, Third treatment: Addition of arginine at a rate of 1.5 g/kg of feed, Fourth treatment: Addition of arginine at a rate of 2 g/kg of feed and Fifth treatment: Addition of vitamin C at a rate of 300 mg/kg of feed The results of the study revealed that utilizing the specified levels of arginine and vitamin C in the diets did not lead to any significant impact on the physiological performance, chemical, and biochemical blood parameters of the broiler chickens. These parameters included Glutathione, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL), Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Triglycerides, Cholesterol, Creatinine, Uric Acid, AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), Ceruloplasmin, Albumin, Protein, Glucose, H/L Ratio (Heterophil to Lymphocyte Ratio), Lymphocytes, and Monocytes. In conclusion, the utilization of the specified levels of arginine and vitamin C in the diets did not result in any significant effects on the studied parameters in the broiler chickens.

Effect of dietary supplementation of tannins, probiotics and antibiotic growth promoters on growth performance of broiler chicken

A total of 408, day-old Vencobb 400Y strain broiler chicks were locally procured, weighed individually and randomly divided into four treatment groups to study the effect of tannins, probiotics and antibiotics on feed intake, body weight, weekly body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, nutrient utilization, performance index and nutrient retention in broiler chickens during 35 days feeding trial. Growth performance of broilers in terms of feed intake, weekly body weight gain, feed conversion ratio and performance index was found significant and higher in T1 (Tannin group) and T3 (Probiotics group) in comparison to T2 (Antibiotics group) and control group. Supplementation of tannins and probiotics enhanced growth performance of broiler chicken compared to antibiotics and control group. There was no significant effect on dry matter, ether extract and phosphorus retention in broiler chickens fed tannin, probiotics and antibiotic except calcium. Thus, it may be concluded that supplementation of broiler diet with tannin, probiotics and antibiotics may prove a promising approach in enhancing the growth performance, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio and performance index.

Gomperzt non-linear model for predicting growth performance of commercial broiler chickens

An experiment was conducted to estimate growth parameters for commercial broiler chickens in Indonesia. The data was collected from July 2021 to June 2022. A total of 1,570 samples consisting of four strains of broiler chickens were collected from 74 houses. The samples were daily weighed from 0 to 7 days of age, and they were weekly weighed from 1 to 5 weeks of age. A nonlinear Gompertz growth model was fitted to the observed body weights (BW). The results for five growth parameters were as follows: the asymptotic value (A) of the mature live weight ranged from 3.733 to 5.044 kg; the turning point of growth (B) ranged from 4.499 to 4.561; the value growth rate constant (K) ranged from 0.049 to 0.059 kg/week; Inflection points in ranged from 25.292 – 30.970 days, and 1.373 – 1.855 kg for inflection age (IA) and inflection weight (IW), respectively. The model was an excellent fit for the growth data in the commercial broiler with a low Akaike information criterion (AIC), and high coeffi-cient determination (R2).

PCR-RFLP Analysis of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 Gene Polymorphisms in Two Commercial Broiler Chicken Strains (Cobb 500 and Hubbard F-15) and Their Associations with Performance Traits.

The present research aimed to study the polymorphisms of the chicken insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) in two commercial broiler breeds (Cobb 500 and Hubbard F-15). In total, 300 avian blood samples were obtained. The genomic DNA was isolated using a fast salt-extraction technique. Moreover, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify 1146 bp fragments of the gene. The amplified fragments were subjected to restriction enzyme digestion using the HinfI endonuclease enzyme, and the digested products were separated on a 2% agarose gel. The findings indicated that there were two alleles T and C for the target locus, with frequencies of 73.3% and 26.7%, respectively. Three distinct genotype variations, TT, TC, and CC, were found, with genotype frequencies of 59.1%, 28.4%, and 12.5%, respectively. A test based on actual and anticipated frequencies of various genotypic variances of the IGF2 gene revealed that the divergence from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was not significant (P≤0.01) in commercial broiler breeds (Cobb 500 and Hubbard F-15) chickens. In addition, it was found that birds with genotype TC had a greater body mass at 8 weeks of age, compared to those with genotypes TT and CC. It was determined that the IGF2 gene exhibited a significant degree of variability and might be regarded as a possible genetic marker in selection and breeding programs for poultry.

Growth performance and blood profile of Cobb strain of broiler chickens fed diets containing different additives

Feed additives are groups of non-nutritive products added to rations to improve the efficiency of animal production via an improve intake, gastrointestinal microflora, production characteristics, meat quality, eggs of poultry, vitality and health condition In this study the performance of Cobb strain of broiler chickens fed diets containing different additives was investigated . A total of 150 day old broilers of Cobb strain were purchased and brooded. two weeks of broodingafter which the birds were balanced for weight and assigned to five (5) treatments designated as T1—T5, with each treatment containing 30 birds of 10 birds in replicates of 3.The T1 consist of Basal diet with no additive, T2=Basal diet + 4g/kg of cloves, T3 =Basal diet + 4g/kg of turmeric, T4 =Basal diet + 2.0 mg of Selenium and T5 =Basal diet + 0.25mg/kg of Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) were assigned to the five treatment groups. The feeding trial lasted for 6 weeks. Data obtained were analysed using the one – way Analysis of variance. Results revealed that the supplementation of Clove (4g/kg)in T1 and turmeric (4g/kg) inT2 of the diets of cob strain of broiler chickens lowered their feed intake (from 1456g to 1017g in the starter phase and 3844g to 3548g in the finisher phase) while improving their feed conversion ratio (2.70 - 2.10 in the starter phase and 2.80 – 2.53 in the finisher phase) while the inclusion of 2mg/kg of selenium inT4 if their diets had a negative net profit (-1729).Most of the serum indices and haematological parameters studied in the experiment fell within the normal range despite the addition of different additives. In this study we concludede that the addition of 4g/kg of cloves and turmeric powder improved the performance of Cobb strain of broiler chicken compared to the group of birds fed BHT and selenium.
 
 
 
 
 Les additifs alimentaires sont des groupes de produits non nutritifs ajoutés aux rations pour améliorer l’efficacité de la production animale via une amélioration de l’apport, de la microflore gastro-intestinale, des caractéristiques de production, de la qualité de la viande, des œufs de volaille, de la vitalité et de l’état de santé Dans cette étude, les performances de la souche Cobb de des poulets à griller nourris avec des régimes contenant différents additifs ont été étudiés. Un total de poulets âgés de 150 jours de souche Cobb ont été achetés et couvés. Deux semaines de couvaison, après quoi les oiseaux ont été équilibrés en fonction du poids et affectés à cinq (5) traitements désignés comme T1—T5, chaque traitement contenant 30 oiseaux de 10 oiseaux en répétitions de 3. Le T1 consiste en un régime de base sans additif, T2 = Régime de base + 4 g/kg de clous de girofle, T3 = Régime de base + 4 g/kg de curcuma, T4 = Régime de base + 2,0 mg de sélénium et T5 = Régime de base + 0,25 mg/kg de Hydroxytoluène Butylé (BHT) ont été attribués au cinq groupes de traitement. L’essai d’alimentation a duré 6 semaines. Les données obtenues ont été analysées à l’aide de l’analyse de variance unidirectionnelle. Les résultats ont révélé que la supplémentation en clou de girofle (4 g/kg) en T1 et en curcuma (4 g/kg) en T2 des régimes de souche cob des poulets de chair a réduit leur consommation alimentaire (de 1456 g à 1017 g en phase de démarrage et de 3844 g à 3548 g en phase de finition) en améliorant leur taux de conversion alimentaire (2,70 - 2,10 en phase de démarrage et 2,80 - 2,53 en phase de finition) tandis que l’inclusion de 2mg/kg de sélénium dans T4 si leurs régimes avaient un bénéfice net négatif (-1729). La plupart des indices sériques et des paramètres hématologiques étudiés dans l’expérience se situaient dans la plage normale malgré l’ajout de différents additifs. Dans cette étude, nous avons conclu que l’ajout de 4 g/kg de clous de girofle et de poudre de curcuma améliorait les performances de la souche Cobb de poulet à griller par rapport au groupe d’oiseaux nourris au BHT et au sélénium.

Expression of major histocompatibility complex class II gene in commercial strains of broiler chickens administered varying levels of aqueous ginger extract

Due to regulation on the usage of synthetic antibiotics as a result of the development of resistance by microorganisms, the expression of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II gene in three commercial strains of broiler chickens administered varying levels of ginger extract was investigated. Ninety each of Arbor acres Plus, Cobb 500 and Ross 308 were used in the experiment. The birds were randomly divided into three treatment groups, on breed basis, of 30 birds, designated as T1, T2, and T3. Each treatment per breed were further divided into 3 replicates of 10 chicks. The control was administered a leveled table spoonful of Oxytetracycline® in 2L of water as recommended by the manufacturer while 4% and 6% of aqueous ginger extract was given to treatment 2, and 3 birds, respectively via drinking water. A single phase diet (22.34% CP; 2948.05 ME kcal/kg) was fed to the birds for 8 weeks. Liver samples were collected at the end of the experiment, fixed in RNA Later, and used for the expression study. Results showed significant (P<0.05) effect of treatment on the expression of MHC complex class II gene of the birds. Arbor acres Plus, Cobb 500 and Ross 308 birds administered ginger extract expressed more of the gene compared to the control. For the breed effect, expression of MHC class II gene was better in Ross 308 strain (1.07 fold change) followed by Arbor acres plus (0.76 fold change) while Cobb 500 had the least (0.62 fold change). For the effect of varying ginger extract levels on the expression of MHC class II gene, it was observed to have been upregulated most in birds administered 4% ginger extract (1.26 FC), 6% ginger extract (1.19 FC), while the control (0% ) had the least value (0.00 FC). In conclusion, aqueous ginger extract could be used up to 6% in the drinking water of the three broiler chickens strains as it led to upregulation of the MHC class II gene expression which could help in conferring immunity to the birds against exogenous microbial infection.
 
 
 
 
 En raison de la réglementation sur l’utilisation d’antibiotiques synthétiques à la suite du développement d’une résistance par des micro-organismes, l’expression du gène de classe II du complexe majeur d’histocompatibilité (CMH) dans trois souches commerciales de poulets à griller administrées à des niveaux variables d’extrait de gingembre a été étudiée. Quatre-vingt-dix chacun des acres Arbor Plus, Cobb 500 et Ross 308 ont été utilisés dans l’expérience. Les oiseaux ont été divisés au hasard en trois groupes de traitement, sur la base de la race, de 30 oiseaux, désignés par T1, T2 et T3. Chaque traitement par race a ensuite été divisé en 3 répétitions de 10 poussins. Le témoin a reçu une cuillerée de table rase d’Oxytetracycline® dans 2L d’eau comme recommandé par le fabricant tandis que 4% et 6% d’extrait aqueux de gingembre ont été administrés aux oiseaux de traitement 2 et 3, respectivement via l’eau potable. Un régime à une seule phase (22,34 % de PB ; 2 948,05 ME kcal/kg) a été administré aux oiseaux pendant
 8 semaines. Des échantillons de foie ont été prélevés à la fin de l’expérience, fixés ultérieurement dans l’ARN et utilisés pour l’étude d’expression. Les résultats ont montré un effet significatif (P<0,05) du traitement sur l’expression du gène du complexe CMH de classe II des oiseaux. Les oiseaux Arbor acres Plus, Cobb 500 et Ross 308 ayant reçu de l’extrait de gingembre ont exprimé plus de gène que le témoin. Pour l’effet de race, l’expression du gène CMH de classe II était meilleure dans la souche Ross 308 (changement de 1,07 fois) suivie par Arbor acres plus (changement de 0,76 fois) tandis que Cobb 500 avait le moins (changement de 0,62 fois). Pour l’effet de la variation des niveaux d’extrait de gingembre sur l’expression du gène du CMH de classe II, il a été observé qu’il avait été régulé positivement chez les oiseaux ayant reçu 4 % d’extrait de gingembre (1,26 FC), 6 % d’extrait de gingembre (1,19 FC), tandis que le contrôle (0% ) avait la valeur la plus faible (0,00 FC). En conclusion, l’extrait aqueux de gingembre pourrait être utilisé jusqu’à 6% dans l’eau potable des trois souches de poulets à griller car il a conduit à une régulation positive de l’expression du gène MHC de classe II qui pourrait aider à conférer une immunité aux oiseaux contre les infections microbiennes exogènes.

Performance, Haematology and Serum Biochemical Status of two Strains of Broiler Chicken Fed Ficus thonningii Leaf Powder and Vitamin C Supplemented Diets

Aims: To evaluate the effect of Ficus thonningii leaf powder (FTLP) and vitamin C supplemented diets on performance and haemato-biochemical status of two strains of broiler chickens.
 Methodology: Four hundred and eighty-one-day-old of Arbor acre (AB) and Cobb 500 (CO) broiler chicks were randomized to eight dietary treatments; diet 1 and 2 (Control), diets 3 and 4 (200mg/kg vitamin C inclusion), diets 5 and 6 (1% inclusion of FTLP) and (diets 7 and 8 (200mg/kg + 1% FTLP inclusions) for AB and CO strains respectively.
 Results: Result shows that feed intake, body weight gain and FCR were significant (P<0.05) at the starter phase. Interaction between strains and vitamin C were also significant (P<0.05) for body weight gain, FCR and feed intake. Vitamin C and FTLP supplementation significantly (P<0.05) improved the erythrocytes count while the MCV, MCH, WBC and lymphocytes of birds fed diets 2 and 6 were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the other diets. The dietary supplementation of vitamin C and FTLP shows that strain AB had a significantly (P<0.05) higher erythrocytes count than CO strain while the CO showed significant (P<0.05) improvement for the MCV and MCH. Vitamin C supplementation showed significant difference (P<0.05) for the RBC and the interaction of vitamin C and FTLP significantly (P<0.05) improved PCV, HB, MCV, MCH, WBC and lymphocytes. The interactive effect of vitamin C and FTLP significantly (P<0.05) improved the total protein and albumin. Cholesterol and creatinine levels were significantly (P<0.05) lowered by the inclusion of vitamin C and FTLP.
 Conclusion: As observed in this study, the inclusion of FTLP and vitamin C as a supplement in the diets of broiler chickens improved the performance, haematological indices and serum biochemical status of the tested birds.

Effects of Lactobacillus-Fermented Feed on Production Performance and Carcass Quality of Broiler Chickens

The quality of broiler chicken carcasses is greatly influenced by feed management and the number of nutrients digested in the digestive tract that will be utilized for optimal meat production. The study aimed to determine the effect of feeding fermented feed at different times on the production performance and quality of broiler chicken carcasses. The number of day-old chicks used in this study was 180 broiler chickens strain Cobb. This study was carried out experimentally using a complete randomized design consisting of four treatments and five replications. Each treatment carried out in this experiment consisted of a different length of time, namely feeding for 2, 3, 4, and 5 weeks. Experimental parameters included feed consumption, weight gain, and ration conversion. In addition, the carcass quality was investigated as live weight, carcass percentage, and percentage of broiler chicken abdominal fat. The results showed that the longer the time of fermentation feed significantly increased feed consumption by 40.07% and increased 13.77% weight gain, as well as decreased ration conversion by 25.33%. Furthermore, the same results were also obtained regarding live weight by 17.80% and increased percentage of the carcass by 8.84%, while the percentage of abdominal fat decreased by 12.90%. It can be concluded that the provision of fermented feed for 5 weeks can improve the production performance and carcass quality of broiler chickens. Keywords: Broiler chicken, Carcass quality, Fermented feed, Performance

Effects of In Ovo Injection of Inorganic Salts of Zinc and Copper on Performance and Serum Biochemical Indices of Two Strains of Broiler Chickens

Abstract This study was composed of two experiments which investigated the response of two strains (Arbor Acre and Cobb 500, respectively) of broiler chickens to in ovo injection of inorganic salts of zinc, copper and their combination. A total of 300 hatching eggs [only 148 (59.20 %) and 232 (90.27 %), respectively, were fertile] each of Arbor Acre and Cobb 500 strains of broiler chickens were used in both experiments. These eggs were distributed into four treatments: control, in ovo inorganic Zn (80 µg.egg−1), Cu (16 µg.egg−1) and combined Zn and Cu (80 µg.egg−1 Zn and 16 µg.egg−1 Cu). The data obtained in both experiments were subjected to Completely Randomized Design (CRD) at the 5 % probability level. The results showed increased hatchability (P < 0.05) in eggs injected with the combination of inorganic salts of Zn and Cu in Experiment I and daily intake was influenced in both experiments. The carcass traits, organ development and gut morphometry were not significantly influenced by the treatment groups. The total serum protein and albumin of the birds were significantly (P < 0.05) increased by in ovo injection of inorganic salts of Zn and Cu at day 49 in the Experiment I. The study concluded that in ovo injection of inorganic salts of Zn at 80 µg.egg−1 and/or Cu at 16 µg. egg−1 could be adopted to increase feed intake with: attendant enhanced growth, enhanced immune response, increased albumin and total protein contents of blood serum in the strains of broiler chickens used.

EFFECTIVENESS OF PROBIOTIC AND DIGESTIVE ENZYMES IN FERMENTED DIET ON GROWTH, FAT AND CHOLESTEROL CONTENTS OF BROILER

ABSTRACTThe present study aims to determine the effect of fermented diet containing probiotics and digestive enzymes with different feed levels on growth, fat and cholesterol contents of broiler chickens. Evaluating the effectiveness of probiotics (P) and digestive enzymes (DE) in fermented diet on broiler was observed by 4 treatments: P0=control (fermented diet without P and ED) EP), P1(fermented diet contained 0.5% P only)), P2 (fermented diet contained 0.5% DE only), P3 (fermented diet contained 0.5% P and 1% DE) and P4 (fermented diet contained 1% P and 0.5% DE). A hundred DOCs of broiler chickens strain CP 707 were used (unsex) and it designed by a completely randomized design with 5 treatments, 4 replications and each replication consisted of 5 DOCs. The data obtained were analyzed by means of variance and Duncan's multiple range test. The results of present study showed that broiler fed on fermented diet containing P and/or ED with different levels had a significant effect (P0.05) on final body weight, weight gain, carcass weight, fat content on thigh muscle. Broiler fed on fermented diet contained 0.5% DE only (P2) resulted in better growth and weight gain than other treatments. However, fermented diet contained probiotics and digestive enzymes had no effect on fat and cholesterol contents in breast muscle. It was concluded that the addition of digestive enzymes in fermented diet formulated by local raw materials was very effective than probiotics in increasing body weight gain, carcass weight and prevented the increase in fat and cholesterol contents both in breast and thight muscles of broiler chicken.

Effect of turmeric on performance of Arbor Acres plus strain of broiler chicken

This study was conducted to investigate the performance response of Arbor Acres plus strain of broiler chickens fed turmeric treated diets. A total of 120 day old broiler chicks were allocated to four dietary treatments, with three replicates, having 10 birds per replicate. The dietary treatments consisted of the control diet (T1) with 0 % turmeric powder and T2, T3 and T4 with turmeric powder added @ 0.20, 0.25 and 0.30 % of feed respectively. Results showed that average final weight and daily weight gain were not significantly influenced (P>0.05) across the treatments. The average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio of the broilers differed significantly (P<0.05) amongst the treatment groups. Turmeric supplementation showed a significant decrease in feed conversion ratio and in turn improved feed efficiency. Dietary turmeric had no significant effect on nutrient utilization across the dietary groups. Significantly higher dressing percentage was obtained in broiler group fed 0.30 % turmeric powder while other carcass cuts and internal organs did not differ significantly. Turmeric powder had no significant effect on total protein, albumin, globulin and glucose, whereas, dietary effects of turmeric on AST, ALT and ALP decreased significantly in 0.30 % turmeric fed group. It was concluded that turmeric at 0.30 % had a positive influence on feed conversion ratio, dressing percentage and oxidative stress indicators in broiler chickens. Therefore, inclusion of turmeric powder at 0.30 % is recommended.

Performance of three strains of broiler chickens fed with straight diet

One hundred and twenty (120) day-old broiler chickens of three different strains fed with straight diet were used in this study which lasted for 49 days. A single straight diet containing 2844.25kcal/kg of M.E and crude protein of 21.04% was formulated for the study. Each strain of the broiler namely Cobb, Ross and Abor acre formed the three treatments of 40 birds per treatment which were replicated four times with 10 birds per replicate using Completely Randomized Design. The data collected were subjected to ANOVA, where means were different, Duncan Multiple Range Test was used to separate the means. The result of the final weight, weight gained, average daily weight gained, total feed intake, average daily feed intake, live weight and dressed weight had the same level of significances where Cobb and Ross were not significantly (P>0.05) different from each other but they were significantly (P<0.05) higher than Arbor acre. The organ yield showed no significant difference (P>0.05) across the treatments. The proximate composition of meat did not show any particular pattern. Cobb strain of broiler had the best gross margin (₦2345.16) though not significantly (P<0.0.5) different from Ross (₦2326.66). From the fore going, it can be concluded and recommended that Cobb and Ross strains of broiler are best raised for performance traits and maximum gain for farmers feeding straight diet.

Effect of replacing full-fat soybean meal with undefatted cashew reject kernel meal on the growth response, blood parameters, organ weight and abdominal fat weight of broiler chicks

This preliminary feeding trial examined the effects of replacing full-fat soybean meal with undefatted cashew reject kernel meal on the growth response, blood parameters, organ weight and abdominal fat of broiler chicks. Three hundred 1-day-old unsexed Arbor-acre strain broiler chicks stochastically assigned in a completely randomized design to five dietary class of sixty birds each replicated six times in a 21-day feeding trial. The control diet (T1) was a maize- full-fat soybean meal (SBM) based diet. Undefatted cashew reject kernel meal (UCRKM) was used to replace 12.50 %, 25.00 %, 37.50 % and 50.00 % full-fat SBM in the control diet, and were referred to as diets T2, T3, T4 and T5 correspondingly. The chemical composition revealed that UCRKM contained 26.56 % crude protein, 3.30 % crude fibre, 2.99 % ash, 35.05 % ether extract, 23.07 % nitrogen-free extract and 4285.76 kcal kg-1 metabolizable energy. Significant disparities (P ≤ 0.05) were noticed in growth parameters with feed conversion ratio similar to those on T1 up to 50 % substitution. The red blood cell count, mean corpusculars, platelet count, alanine amino transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine, internal organ weights were influenced (P ≤ 0.05) except the liver and abdominal fat. UCRKM is therefore recommended as a replacement for up to 50.00 % full-fat SBM in broiler starter diets.