The effect of dietary inclusion of <i>Mansonia altissima</i> on egg production and fertility of laying hens

Abstract

An experiment was conducted in Port Harcourt to determine the effect of dietary inclusion of Mansonia altissima on egg production and fertility of laying hens, using a total of 45 birds consisting of 36 layers and 9 cocks in a randomized block of groups A, B, C of 15 birds each. Each treatment group was
replicated thrice each containing 5 birds of both sexes (4 females and 1 male). Birds in group A were used as control while those in treatments B, C were fed M. altissima powder at the rate of 30 and 50 g per kg feed daily, respectively, for eight weeks. Results showed a significant difference (P<0.05) in egg
production with group C showing the highest egg production but decreased fertility. It was therefore concluded that M. altissima can be used to increase egg production in layers at the level of 50 g/kg feed but the reduced fertility, which it causes should be borne in mind while doing so.