An 8 week study was conducted to evaluate the effects of hyphaene thebaica seed meal (HTSM) as substitute for maize on the growth response of broiler chickens. Five experimental diets were formulated to meet nutrient requirement standards of broilers (NRC, 1994). Diet 1 (0 % HTSM) served as the control while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 contained 5, 10, 15 and 20 %HTSM respectively replacing maize in the diets of birds. A total of two hundred and twenty five (225) day-old broiler chicks were randomly allotted into five treatment groups with three replicates of fifteen birds each. Each group was assigned to the five experimental diets in completely randomized design (CRD). Throughout the experimental period, feed and water were provided ad libitum for all treatment groups. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in the parameters measured except the average initial weight and average feed intake (P>0.05). The average body weight gain and feed conversion ratio of birds fed 0, 5 and 10 % HTSM diets were significantly better (P<0.05) compared to those fed 15 and 20 % HTSM diets. It was concluded that broiler chickens can tolerate up to 10 % raw HTSM in their diets without adverse effect on growth performance. Also, adequate processing of the seed should be carried out to reduce the anti-nutritional factors to a tolerable level before being used in broiler diet. 1525028391.php
THE POTENTIAL OF DUM PALM (HYPHAENE THEBAICA) SEED MEAL AS FEED FOR BROILER CHICKENS
Date : 2018-07-30 Volume : 10