Effect of <i>Monodora myristica</i> (African nutmeg) as feed additive on rabbit’s carcass composition and serum lipid profile

Abstract

The effect of Monodora myristica as feed additive on the performance, carcass composition and serum lipid profile of rabbits were investigated using a total of 48 weaner rabbits for a period of 12 weeks. The rabbits were allotted to four experimental diets in a completely randomized design. Each group was replicated three times with four rabbits per replicate. Treatment 1 (T1) received basal diet only, T2 received basal diet with 1% inclusion of M. myristica, T3 received basal diet plus 2% M. myristica, while T4 was given basal diet and 3% M. myristica inclusion. Results revealed significantly higher (p<0.05) feed intake and weight gain, compared to those on the control group. Rabbits in T3 group recorded the highest values for all parameters assessed. Rabbits fed 2% levels of the test ingredient recorded the lowest and best FCR. Inclusion of M. myristica significantly improved (p<0.05) carcass characteristics without any deleterious effect on the internal organs. The serum lipid profiles of the rabbits were significantly improved (p<0.05) as the high density lipoprotein increased, while low density lipoprotein levels reduced. There was also a significant reduction (p<0.05) in abdominal fat and an increase in muscle protein of the rabbits as inclusion levels of M. myristica increased across treatments. The study revealed that up to 2% of M. myristica can be included in the diets of rabbits without adverse effect on the performance, carcass composition and serum lipid profile. Hence, it can be used as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoter in weaner rabbits.