Chicken Diets Research Articles

HAEMATOLOGY AND SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIETS WITH AVOCADO (PERSEA AMERICANA) SEED MEAL

The general acceptability of plants with proven records of medicinal values in the tropics in recent times has necessitated the use of dried avocado (Persea americana) seed meal in diets of broiler chickens. The study was conducted to investigate the hematological and biochemical responses of broiler chickens to various inclusion levels of avocado (Persea americana) seed meal (ASM). Two hundred broiler chickens were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8% inclusion levels of ASM. Each treatment consisted of forty birds with four replicates of ten broiler chickens per replicate. The duration of the study was six weeks and the parameters measured were Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Red Blood Cell (RBC), White Blood Cell (WBC), Platelets, Lymphocytes Neutrophils, Haemoglobin (Hb), total protein, albumin and globulin in the serum. The results showed no significant difference (P>0.05) in the heamatological parameters except lymphocytes and mean cell hemoglobin: although at the normal range which implied that the inclusion level of ASM in broiler diets had no negative effect on the birds up to 8% inclusion level that was studied. It also has positive effect on the total protein, albumin and globulin.

GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIET SUPPLEMENTED WITH BIONIC PREBIOTIC (HILYSES) AND HARDCORE YEAST CELL WALL

In a bid to boost productivity, several dietary manipulations have been carried out on poultry, ranging from inclusion of growth promoters, hormones, organic acids, enzymes (Chuka and locally sourced additives Thus, this study was carried out to assess supplementation of regular diet of broiler chickens with bionic prebiotic (Hilyses) and hardcore Yeast Cell Wall (Immuno Wall). The experiment utilized a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 120 unsexed day-old chicks randomly allocated into four treatment groups (T1, T2, T3, and T4), each consisting of 30 chicks and replicated three times. The initial live weight of the broiler chicks at day old was recorded. The birds were weekly weighed to determine the live weight and weight gain. The quantity of feed offered to the birds daily and the left over the next morning were measured to ascertain feed intake. Mortality was noted. Over the 56-day experimental period, the results demonstrated notable improvements in various performance traits attributable to the inclusion of prebiotic and yeast supplements, except for the initial weight, which exhibited not statistically significant (P>0.05) difference among the treatment groups. Significant (p<0.05) differences were observed in the final weight, with birds fed diet 4 displaying the highest final weight, reaching 2680.85g. In contrast, the final weights of birds fed diet 3 and 2 were 2525.55g and 2450.10g, respectively, while those on diet 1 had the lower final weight of 2407.65g. It is worth noting that as the inclusion levels of prebiotic and yeast increased across the dietary treatments, a significant (p<0.05) enhancement in final weight was consistently observed. The findings of this study unequivocally demonstrate the favourable growth performance of the treatment diets across all parameters examined. Specifically, it is evident that T4, with a 0.75% inclusion of prebiotics and yeast cells, yielded the highest final bod weight than both the other trial diets and the control diet. These findings highlight the potential for enhanced broiler chicken performance and overall health when incorporating these dietary additives.

RESPONSE OF BROILER FINISHERS TO MIXTURE OF SUN-DRIED CASSAVA AND SWEET POTATO PEEL MEAL BASED DIETS WITH ACIDIFIER SUPPLEMENTATION

An experiment was conducted to determine the impact of acidifier supplementation to a mixture of sun-dried cassava and sweet potato peels meal in diets of broiler finisher chickens on growth performance and cost implication. A total of 105, 28-day-old Arbor acres broiler chicks were randomly allocated into 4 dietary treatments containing 5 replications of 7 birds each in a completely randomized design. Diet T1 served as the positive control (PC) containing maize-soybean meal based diet, diet T2 served as the negative control (NC) containing 25% replacement of maize with sun-dried cassava-sweet potato peel mixture (CSPPM) in T1 diet, while diet T3 and T4 were formulated to contain 0.5% and 1% acidifier supplementation to NC, respectively. Results showed that final body weight and weight gain were significantly higher (p<0.05) in birds fed PC and 1% acidified CSPPM diets than those fed CSPPM based diet. Feed intake was higher (p<0.05) in PC and acidified CSPPM diets compare to those fed CSPPM based diets. Birds fed PC and 1% acidified CSPPM diets showed significantly (p<0.05) lower feed:gain compared to the group fed CSPPM based diet. Feed cost/intake and feed cost/gain were significantly higher (p<0.05) in control group than in other dietary treatment groups. Feed cost/kg gain reduced significantly (p<0.05) in birds fed acidified CSPPM diets than those fed PC and NC diets. Conclusively, CSPPM can replace maize up to 25% in broiler finisher ration with acidifier supplementation up to 1% inclusion level for improved performance at a lower feed cost/kg gain.

THERMOREGULATORY RESPONSE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED SUPPLEMENTAL BAOBAB (ADANSONIA DIGITATA L) LEAF MEAL UNDER HEAT STRESS

The thermoregulatory response of broiler chickens fed Baobab (Adansonia digitata L) leaf meal supplementation was evaluated in a 7 weeks trial. Forty-five (45) Cobb 500 broiler chickens were used for the experiment. The birds were distributed into five (5) treatment diets in a completely randomized design and replicated three (3) times where three (3) chicks served as a replicate of each treatment diet. The five (5) dietary treatments were labelled T1 (0.00% BLM), T2 (supplemented with 0.025% BLM), T3 (supplemented with 0.05% BLM), T4 (supplemented with 0.075% BLM) and T5 (supplemented with 0.10% BLM). Data on ambient temperature, relative humidity, axillary and cloaca temperatures were taken, also faecal samples were collected for corticosterone analysis. Results showed significant differences (p<0.05) in the faecal corticosterone levels, birds on T5 (0.10% BLM) had the highest faecal corticosterone (1.094±0.041). The morning, afternoon and evening ambient temperature stood at 25.63±0.40°C, 33.38±0.40°C and 29.35±0.55°C respectively while the relative humidity was at 77.02±5.84%, 53.65±3.21% and 68.29±2.45% for these periods of the day. No statistical differences (P>0.05) were recorded for the axillary and rectal temperatures for different times of the day across the experimental groups, however, birds on T2 (0.025% BLM) had the lowest axillary (40.19±0.10°C), (40.27±0.01°C) and rectal temperature (40.47±0.11°C), (40.42±0.09°C) for morning and evening respectively and least rectal temperature (41.07±0.08°C) in the afternoon. The study thus concluded that supplementing baobab (Adansonia digitata) leaf meal in the diet of broiler chickens can help in ameliorating heat stress.

GROWTH RESPONSE OF FUNAAB ALPHA BROILER CHICKENS TO DIETS CONTAINING VARYING LEVELS OF ALLIGATOR PEPPER (AFRAMOMUM MELEGUETA) SEED MEAL

Alligator pepper (Aframomum melegueta) seed meal (APSM) was used as an alternative growth promoter in diets of FUNAAB Alpha broiler chickens. One hundred and fifty (150) 1-day-old chicks were arranged in a Completely Randomized Design into five treatment groups, three replicates per treatment with ten birds per replicate. The birds were fed basal diet containing APSM at 0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 g/kg for the 8 weeks experimental duration. Data were collected on feed intake (FI), weight gain (WG), and feed conversion ratios (FCR) were calculated for both phases of growth of broiler chicken. Results revealed that dietary inclusion of Alligator pepper significantly (p<0.05) influenced final weight, weight gain and FCR of broiler chicken at chicks’ phase. While at finisher phase, the growth indices were comparable across all treatment groups. The study therefore concluded that dietary inclusion of 0.5, 1.0 or 1.5g/kg APSM relatively enhanced the weight gain of finisher FUNAAB Alpha broiler chickens.

IMPACT OF PROCESSED CYMBOPOGON CITRATUS (LEMON GRASS) LEAF MEAL ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF BROILER CHICKENS

The experiment was carried out to determine the impact of processed lemon grass (Cymbopogon citrates) leaf meal on the growth performance and haematological indices of broiler birds. One hundred and twenty (120), day old "Agrited" broiler chicks were randomly distributed into four treatment groups, each replicated three times with ten birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). Four diets were formulated such that the lemon grass leaf meal was incorporated into the diets at 0%, 0.75%, 1.50% and 2.25% corresponding to treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. Feed and water were given ad-libitum throughout the experimental period of 49 days. Final body weight was superior (P<0.05) in T4 (2530g), while the least value of 2200g was observed in treatment 1. Body weight gain was highest in T4 (1290g), but least in T1 (958g). While feed conversion ratio was at its best in treatment 4 with 1.99. Haematological profile results showed that there was no significant (P>0.05) effect of lemon grass leaf meal across the treatment groups studied in terms of haemoglobin and red blood cell, but differed (P<0.05) in packed cell volume and white blood cell. From the results obtained in this present research, it can be concluded that lemon grass leaf meal can be added up to 2.25% in the diet of broiler chickens without any undesirable effect in terms of growth performance and no negative impact on the health of the birds at this phase of growth.

PERFORMANCE AND SERUM METABOLITES OF BROILERS FED VARIED LEVEL OF CASSAVA PEEL MEAL ENRICHED WITH METHIONINE AND ENZYME

The high dietary fibre and low energy density of cassava peel have limited the full utilization by broiler chicken. Supplementation of cassava peel with enzymes and methionine improve broilers performance. Performance and serum metabolites of broilers fed varied level of cassava peel meal (CPM) enriched with methionine and enzyme was studied. A total of 96 broiler chickens were used in the research work. The birds were randomly allotted to four experimental treatment with each treatment having four replicate of eight birds per replicate. A completely randomized design (CRD) was employed. Four experimental diets were compounded to include CPM at 0, 15, 30 and 45% maize replacement in diets designated as T1, T2, T3 and T4. Performance and serum metabolites parameters of broilers fed were determined. Observed results show no significant differences (P>0.05) in initial weight and feed conversion ratio (FCR). However, there were significant variations (P<0.05) in final weight, weight gain, daily weight gain and daily feed intake in the performance parameters. A significant difference (P<0.05) was observed for total protein, albumin, creatinine and cholesterol. A non-significant difference (P>0.05) was observed for globuline, aspartate amino transferase and alanine amino transferase. Values of the total protein was significantly different (P<0.05). However, no significant variation were observed for the values obtained in the birds fed diets T1, T2 and T3, except for cholesterol which were significantly reduced with CPM inclusion. It was concluded that CPM be included up to 30% replacement for maize in the diets of finisher broilers chickens.

SERUM INDICES OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIET SUPPLEMENTED WITH BIONIC PREBIOTIC (HILYSES) AND HARDCORE YEAST CELL WALL

The revelation that the utilization of antibiotics in livestock is contributing to the escalating challenge of transmitting antibiotic-resistant bacteria from animals to humans has prompted the exploration of alternatives to antibiotics. In pursuit of this objective, an investigation was conducted into the effects of supplementing broiler chickens' straight diet with Bionic Prebiotic (Hilyses) and Hardcore Yeast Cell Wall (Immuno Wall) on the serum indices of broiler chickens. The study employed a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 120 unsexed day-old chicks distributed across four treatment groups (T1, T2, T3, and T4), each replicated three times. Blood samples were collected into labeled sterile bottles and were used in the laboratory to determine for serum biochemical analysis such as Total protein, Albumin, Globulin, Glucose, Urea, AST and ALP. Results of the serum biochemical indices revealed non-significant (P>0.05) differences in most parameters; however, exceptions were noted in Total protein (3.27-3.57g/dL), creatinine levels (0.85-0.93mg/dl), AST (43.16-45.18U/L), and ALP (56.64-60.70U/L). The study concludes that supplementing broiler chicken diets with prebiotics and yeast at an inclusion level of up to 0.75% proves beneficial in enhancing nutrient utilization, reducing wastage, and promoting favorable blood chemistry. These findings showed the inclusion of Bionic Prebiotic (Hilyses) and Hardcore Yeast Cell Wall (Immuno Wall) in broiler chicken rations to optimize results, providing valuable insights for poultry farmers.

REPLACEMENT VALUE OF CASHEW NUT WASTE AT GRADED LEVELS FOR MAIZE IN GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS

The effects of replacing maize with cashew nut waste (CNW) at graded levels, on the growth and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens were investigated. CNW was incorporated into the broiler starter and then finisher diets that were used, at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% of dietary maize on weight basis. One hundred and five (105) chicks were used for the experiment. They were randomly allocated into five (5) dietary treatments with three (3) replicates of 21 chicks each for a 42-day feeding trial. Results indicated that broilers chicks fed CNW at 25% had similar weight with that of control. The body weight gain and feed intake were significantly different (P < 0.05), 0 and 25% CNW had the highest feed intake, while 100% CNW had the lowest, significantly (P < 0.05). The weight of shank, back and breast were significantly different (P < 0.05), while those of thigh, neck, and wing were not. The results showed that CNW could be incorporated up to 25% in broiler chicken diets without adverse effect on growth performance and carcass characteristics.

PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS IN RESPONSE TO DIETS CONTAINING GRADED LEVELS OF ENERGY-PROTEIN CONCENTRATE

The 42-day study investigated the use of maize and local fish waste as components of an energy-protein concentrate (EPC) in broiler chicken diets, to address challenges in conventional feeding. Maize, used as the source of energy concentrate (ME), and local fish waste as the source of protein concentrate (CP) were mixed in the ratio 3:2 with maize containing 8.9% CP, and local fish waste containing 61.5% CP, while the energy content of maize and local fish waste were 3350kcal/kg and 2760kcal/kg, respectively. One hundred and fifty Arbor Acre broiler chickens of 5 replicates with 10 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design were fed diets with varying inclusion level of EPC at 0%, 50%, and 100% replacement of major energy and protein sources. Results revealed that for final weight (FWT), weight gain (WG) and feed intake (FI), birds fed diet with 0% and 50% EPC replacement performed similarly (710.76g, 668.46g, and 970.66g), (663.15g, 621.79g, and 944.57g) at 21 days. At 42 days, the FWT, WG and FI of those on 0% EPC were also similar to those on 50% EPC replacement (2.25kg, 2.21kg and 1.50kg), (2.21kg, 2.17kg and 3.60kg) respectively, but performed better than those fed 100% EPC replacement diet (356.08g, 314.66g, and 564.03g). However, the feed conversion ratio was not significantly affected. The study emphasized nutrient density of EPC and its efficient utilization for broiler performance. The findings support refining dietary formulations to optimize broiler performance and promote sustainable production practices.

DIETARY EFFECT OF PEPPERFRUIT (DENNETTIA TRIPETALA) MEAL ON BLOOD PROFILE OF BROILER CHICKENS

The modern poultry production technique aimed at increasing production by increasing efficiency of nutrients utilization and health status of birds using organic materials like herbs and spices to decreasing reliant on antibiotics and other synthetic products that have residual effects on birds, their products and their consumers. Thus, an experiment was carried out to investigate effect of dried pepperfruit (Dennettia tripetala) meal (DPFM) on haematology and cholesterol components of broiler chickens. One hundred and fifty day-old Hubbard broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments containing 30 chicks each. Each treatment was replicated three times, which contained 10 birds each. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design. Five diets were formulated to represent the treatments (T1 – T5). Treatment (T1) was the control diet containing no DPFM, while T2, T3, T4 and T5 contained 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1% respectively. Diets were fed to birds starting from day old for 28 days (starter phase) and 21 days for finisher phase. Birds were allowed access to feed and water ad libitum. Parameter measured are the haematological indices like White blood cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, red blood cells, haemoglobin, packed cell volume, MCV, MCHC and platelets; and lipid parameters like Triglycerides, total cholesterol, high density, low density and very low density lipoproteins. At the end of 49 days, results indicated an increase in WBC, RBC and Hb by all the levels of pepper fruit meal. At 0.25% inclusion the neutrophils were reduced. The HDL (good cholesterol), VLDL were increased and LDL (bad cholesterol) was reduced by all levels of DPFM fed (0.25-1.0%) while the total cholesterol level was not affected. Inclusion of dried pepper fruit meal up to 1.0% in broiler chicken diets improved their haematology, immunity and good cholesterol levels while bad cholesterol levels was significantly reduced.

GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF ISA-BROWN COCKERELS FED VARYING DIETARY PROTEIN LEVELS

The quest for antibiotic free poultry products has necessitated the need for organic antimicrobial sources that will not be detrimental to animal and human health. A 21 days study was conducted to examine the economics and growth performance of starter broiler chickens fed diets containing phytogenic blend (PB). 240-day old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 6 dietary treatments, which was replicated 5 times. A basal diet (T1), Oxytetracycline + basal diet (T2), PB was added to basal diet at 5g/kg (T3), 10g/kg (T4), 15g/kg (T5), 20g/kg (T6). Data on body weight, feed intake were taken and weight gain, feed conversion ratio were calculated. The prevailing market price of ingredients and selling rate per kilogram live broiler chicken were used for the economic analysis. Data obtained were subjected to one-way analysis of variance in a completely randomized design. Final weight and weight gain of birds in T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 were higher and statistically similar (P <0.05). Feed intake was higher (P <0.05) for birds in T3. Feed conversion ratio was statistically similar for T1, T2, T3 and T4. Feed cost/kilogram, Feed cost/bird, feed cost/weight gain and feed cost differential increased (P <0.05) as the levels of the PB increased in the diets. Revenue was statistically similar for T1, T3, T4 and T5. Gross margin was (P <0.05) best for T1 and worst for T6. It was concluded that supplementing starter broiler chicken diets with this PB should not exceed 15g/kg for improved weight gain.

CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS AND VILLI MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIET CONTAINING COMBINATIONS OF OCIMUM GRATISSIMUM AND OCIMUM CANUM

Scent leaf (Ocimum gratissimum) and curry leaf (Ocimum canum) essential oils possess all the attributes of natural growth promoters (NGPs) and may be used as an alternative to common artificial growth promoters. Thus, this study was carried out to evaluate the effect of combination of Ocimum gratissimum and Ocimum canum on carcass characteristics and villi morphometric traits of broiler chickens. A total of 405 day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were allotted randomly to five dietary treatments each replicated thrice, with 27 chicks. Combination of Ocimum gratissimum and Ocimum canum were included at 0g, 75:25, 50:50 and 25:75 (T1-T4) while oxytetracycline was used as positive control (T5). Data were collected and analyzed on carcass characteristics and villi morphometric traits using analysis of variance and significant differences among treatment means were compared using Tukey procedures. Result on carcass characteristics revealed that cut parts were similar statistically but organs weights were significantly (p<0.05) increased while abdominal fat contents were reduced in birds fed combinations of the PFAs (p<0.05) at 600:200 and 200:600 g/100kg diet. Villi area, villi perimeter, height, width, crypt depth and villi height/crypt depth ratio were higher (p<0.05) in birds fed dietary combinations of O. gratissimum and O. canum at 600:200 and AGP compared to the control. Inclusion of O. gratissimum and O. canum in broiler chickens diets in combinations at 600:200 and 200:600 resulted into higher live weight, dressing percentage and villi morphometric traits with reduction in abdominal fat. Farmers and feed millers can use O. gratissimum and O. canum each in combinations at 600:200 or 200:600 g/100kg diets for improved live weight.

GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER FINISHERS FED GINGER WASTE MEAL AS AN ENERGY SOURCE

A 4-week feeding trial was conducted with four-week-old unsexed Abor-Acres chickens (n=375) to examine the growth performance and carcass traits of the chickens fed graded dietary levels of ginger waste meal (GWM) at 0, 7.5, 15.0, 22.5, and 30.0% replacement for maize, representing T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively. The chickens were allotted to 5 treatments with 5 replicates each of 15 birds in a completely randomized design. Clean water was provided ad libitum. At the end of the four-week feeding trial, some growth parameters (Final weight, daily weight gain and feed to gain ratio) and carcass traits were calculated. The results showed that dietary levels of inclusion of GWM had significant (P<0.05) effect on the growth parameters and carcass traits measured. Final weight and daily weight gain increased as GWM increased in the diet, while average daily feed consumed and the feed to gain ratio also increased. The dressing percentage, carcass, thigh, breast, wing and back weights were higher for the birds fed 0, 7.5%, 15.0%, and 22.5% GWM based diets than those on 30%GWM. It is concluded that 22.5% of the maize in broiler chicken diets can be substituted by dried GWM with no loss of performance as measured by growth rate, feed conversion and carcass conformation.

Production, purification and characterization of phytase from Pichia kudriavevii FSMP-Y17and its application in layers feed.

Phytase, recognized for its ability to enhance the nutritional value of phytate-rich foods, has has gained significant prominence. The production of this enzyme has been significantly boosted while preserving economic efficiency by utilizing natural substrates and optimizing essential factors. This study focuses on optimizing phytase production through solid-state fermentation and evaluating its effectiveness in enhancing nutrient utilization in chicken diets. The objective is to optimize phytase production via solid-state fermentation, characterize purified phytase properties, and assess its impact on nutrient utilization in chicken diets. Through these objectives, we aim to deepen understanding of phytase's role in poultry nutrition and contribute to more efficient feed formulations for improved agricultural outcomes. We utilized solid-state fermentation with Pichia kudriavzevii FSMP-Y17 yeast on orange peel substrate, optimizing variables like temperature, pH, incubation time, and supplementing with glucose and ammonium sulfate. Following fermentation, we purified the phytase enzyme using standard techniques, characterizing its properties, including molecular weight, optimal temperature and pH, substrate affinity, and kinetic parameters. The optimized conditions yielded a remarkable phytase yield of 7.0 U/gds. Following purification, the enzyme exhibited a molecular weight of 64kDa and displayed optimal activity at 55°C and pH 5.5, with kinetic parameters (Km = 3.39 × 10-3M and a Vmax of 7.092mM/min) indicating efficient substrate affinity. The addition of purified phytase to chicken diets resulted in significant improvements in nutrient utilization and overall performance, including increased feed intake, improved feed conversion ratio, enhanced bird growth, better phosphorus retention, and improved egg production and quality. By addressing challenges associated with phytate-rich diets, such as reduced nutrient availability and environmental pollution, phytase utilization promotes animal welfare and sustainability in poultry production.

Influence of phytobiotics dose on feed conversion in broiler chickens

The inclusion of Chaga decoction in the compound feed for broiler chickens in the amount of 20 mg, 40 and 60 mg/kg of live weight of the broilers during the entire period of its rearing had a different influence on the digestibility and use of nutrients in the diet. The results of the physiological experiment at the age of 3 weeks of broilers showed that a small dosage of the phytobiotic compared with the control group stimulated an increase in the digestibility of crude protein in the feed by 4.05 abs.%, crude fat by 1.92 abs.%, crude fiber by 1.21 abs.%. With the increase in the dosage of the phytobiotic in the broiler compound feed, the increase in the digestibility of crude fi ber by 2.01–2.12 abs.% was noted. Nitrogen digestibility in poultry with a low rate of Chaga decoction introduction exceeded the control group by 0.16 g, and other experimental groups by 0.13–0.14 g. As a result, the average daily nitrogen deposition in the body of broiler chickens in the group with a low rate of phytobiotic introduction was 2.53 g or 16.1 % higher than in broilers in the control group and 2.3–3.2 % higher than in other experimental groups. At the fi nal stage of broiler chicken rearing, the digestibility of crude protein in the diet of broiler chickens of the 1st experimental group with a low dosage of phytobiotic was higher than in the control group by 3.17 abs.%, crude fat by 4.15 abs.%, crude fi ber by 2.60 abs.%, and nitrogen-free extractive substances by 0.17 abs.%. In broilers of other experimental groups this diff erence was less expressed. A decrease in nitrogen losses with undigested substances in the droppings of broilers of the 1st experimental group increased its deposition by 5.7 %, in other experimental groups only by 0.9–2.1 %. Analysis of the dynamics of live weight of broiler chickens during the rearing period showed that the 1st experimental group with the low dosage of Chaga decoction in the diet increased the absolute gain in live weight in comparison with the control group by 5.0 %, with the 2nd experimental group by 3.4 % and with the 3rd experimental group by 1.4 %, and feed costs accordingly by groups decreased by 4.7 %, 3.2 and 1.5 %.

Эффективность использования новой кормовой добавки на основе органических кислот при выращивании цыплят-бройлеров

Purpose. Studying the effectiveness of using feed additive "Aciform" when included in the diet of broiler chickens. Materials and Methods. The objects of research were broiler chickens of Cobb-500 cross and feed additive "Aciform". The experiment was carried out in the conditions of the farm of Krest'yanskiy Dvor LLC (Volgograd region). Three groups (two experimental and control) were formed, 140 animals each. The poultry in the control group received feed that did not contain the studied feed additive. Norm for adding additive was 1 kg per 1 ton of feed in the 1st experimental group and 2 kg per 1 ton of feed in the 2nd experimental group. The duration of feeding is from 14 days to 42 days of age. During the experiment, the safety of poultry, the percentage of mortality and pecking, as well as the dynamics of live weight gain and the occurrence of possible side effects when using the feed additive were monitored using standard scientific research methods (zootechnical, mathematical) and certified laboratory equipment. Results. The use of new feed additive "Aciform" in feeding broiler chickens from 14 to 42 days of age at an input rate of 1 and 2 kg per 1 ton of feed had a positive effect on the increase in live weight of chickens. The chickens of experimental groups (1 and 2) exceeded poultry of control group in terms of the average daily gain in live weight by 1.0 and 2.9% (P≤0.05) for the entire experimental period, in terms of absolute increase on the 42nd day of growing – by 1.0 and 2.1%. The incidence of pecking in poultry of experimental groups (1 and 2) was 2.9 and 1.8%, and in the control group – 2.1%. In the groups of broiler chickens that received the test additive as part of the diet (1st and 2nd experimental), there were fewer dead poultry by 2.9 and 3.4%, and the survival rate was higher by 2.9 and 3.8% than in control group. Conclusion. The inclusion of new feed additive "Aciform" in the diet of broiler chickens had a positive effect on the safety, growth rate and productive qualities of the poultry.

Пути реализации генетического потенциала пород и кроссов птицы на основе использования новых видов кормовых средств

Purpose. Work out ways to realize the genetic potential of breeds and crosses of poultry of meat and egg directions of productivity based on the use of new types of feed products, taking into account the analysis of the dynamics of the microbiome at the level of taxonomic types of microorganisms. Materials and Methods. Studies on the inclusion of prebiotic feed additive "Laktuvet" and mineral feed additive "Saponit" were conducted in the conditions of the SS "Svetly" of the CJSC "Agrofirma "Vostok" of the Volgograd Region on "Hysex Brown" cross laying hens. Scientific experiment on the effect of the additive "Quercetinolact" on the growth and development of meat chickens was conducted on broilers of "Ross-308" cross in the vivarium of VRIMMP. Zootechnical, clinical and biochemical research methods were used in the research work. Hematological studies were carried out in certified laboratory on automatic biochemical analyzers using an appropriate set of biochemical reagents. The obtained results were processed using software, calculating the mean value (M), standard errors of the mean (±SEM) and determining the reliability criterion of difference according to Student-Fisher. Results. Adding the prebiotic feed additive "Laktuvet" to the feed of laying hens in an amount of 0.5% in the diet structure contributed to an increase in the gross collection of eggs and the intensity of egg laying by 1.84 (85 eggs) and 1.74%, egg weight – by 1.17 g (1.86%; P≤0.001) due to an increase in the number of microorganisms by 22.9%. Among them, the number of bacteria of Actinobacteria, Lactobacillales and Ruminococcaceae groups increased by 9.0; 1.8 and 1.4 times compared to the control, respectively. Taking into account the data obtained, new feed additive “Quercetinolact” was tested in feeding broiler chickens of Ross-308 cross. Chickens that received Quercetinolact additive exceeded their counterparts in control group in live weight by 4.13 (P≤0.001); 5.19 (P≤0.001) and 5.48% (P≤0.001), which in absolute terms amounted to 108.1; 136.1 and 142.8 g. In terms of meat yield in live weight, the superiority amounted to 3.07; 3.65 and 3.82%, respectively, feed savings per 1 kg of gain 3.66; 6.10 and 6.71%. Mineral feed additive "Saponit" in feeding laying hens in the amount of 1 and 3 kg per ton of feed contributed to an increase in egg productivity by 1.58 and 2.37%, respectively, egg laying intensity – by 1.20 and 2.01%, and gross yield eggs – 90 (1.18%) and 150 pcs. (1.97%), egg weight – by 1.16 and 1.49%. Conclusion. The use of natural mineral complexes and prebiotic feed additives in the diets of chickens of egg and meat breeds and crosses in order to realize the genetic potential and taking into account the analysis of microbiome dynamics at the level of taxonomic types of microorganisms is advisable.

Effects of the inclusion of two extracts derived from the olive industry on growth performance, antiparasitic protection, and antioxidant activity in broiler chicken diets from 0 to 45 d

The objective of the present study was to investigate the optimal inclusion rate of 2 independent extracts with different properties derived from the olive industry [triterpenic acid extract (TAE) and a polyphenol extract (PE)] on productive performances in broiler chickens from 0 to 45 d under challenging conditions. In addition, antiparasitic protection of the TAE was evaluated at d 21 and d 28 through intestinal scoring and oocyst counts, as well as the blood antioxidant activity of the PE at d 45. Wood shavings as bedding material came from a commercial farm with a coccidia load sufficient to create a subclinical coccidiosis situation with minor macroscopic lesions, and a nutritional challenge was imposed using poor raw materials to cause intestinal dysbiosis. There were 9 dietary treatments (8 replicates/treatment and 15 broiler chickens/pen), a positive control (PC) supplemented with commercial coccidiostat (Na monensin), 4 increasing concentrations of TAE (30, 60, 90, and 120 ppm), and 4 increasing concentrations of PE (10, 20, 30, and 40 ppm). For the overall experiment the PC had greater average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) (P < 0.001) than the mean of TAE treatments. Besides, the ADG, body weight, and ADFI increased linearly throughout the whole experiment as the TAE level of the feed increased. With respect to the anticoccidial activity, the 120 ppm TAE treatment showed greater concentration of E. acervuline DNA copies at 21 d than the 30 ppm TAE treatment (P < 0.05), the rest of the treatments being intermediate. Concerning the PE treatments, for the overall experiment, ADG was the greatest in the PC treatment (P < 0.001), and the ADFI was similar in the PC treatment to the mean of PE treatments. There was no effect of the PE on antioxidant activity. In conclusion, under the conditions of this study, the inclusion of TAE does not reach the productive performance indicators achieved by a commercial coccidiostat in our intestinal challenge situations. Also, the inclusion of PE has a positive effect on productive performance on the overall period.

Effects of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal on production performance, egg quality, and physiological properties in laying hens: A meta-analysis.

The primary components of fat and protein in chicken diets are fishmeal and soybean; however, due to limited supply and high costs, several efforts have been made to utilize alternative feedstuffs. The potential of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) as a substitute for fat and protein has been extensively studied, but the findings are not consistent. This study used a meta-analysis approach to investigate the integrated efficacy of BSFL supplementation on laying hen production performance, egg quality, and physiological properties. The articles were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest. The retrieved references were examined for potential inclusion. The relevant findings of the included studies were then extracted. Fixed-effects, standard mean difference, 95% confidence intervals, and heterogeneity models were analyzed using the Review Manager website version (Cochrane Collaboration, UK). A total of 24 papers from 17 different nations across five continents have been selected for meta-analysis out of the 3621 articles that were reviewed. The current meta-analysis demonstrated that providing BSFL meals significantly favored feed efficiency, haugh units, albumen quality, eggshell quality, serum glucose, and lipid levels. In addition, significant trends in alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, magnesium, phosphorus, chlorine, and iron levels were observed in blood urea nitrogen, uric acid, creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde. On the other hand, it was revealed that there was no favorable effect on weight gain, laying, yolk quality, and hematological profile. The meta-analysis confirmed that BSFL meals can be utilized to optimize feed efficiency, haugh units, albumen, eggshell quality, liver, renal, and cellular physiology of laying hens, although they did not significantly increase body weight gain, laying production, and hematological profiles.