Variation in growth performance characteristics of broiler finisher birds fed three different leaf meals as additive

Abstract

This study investigated the growth performance characteristics of broiler finisher birds fed three different leaf meals at 5% inclusion level in a 28-day trial. The leaf meals obtained from three forage plants namely, Moringa oleifera, Pueraria phaseoloides, and Pennisetum purpuruem were added as protein substitutes and partial supplements for soya bean in the diet and birds were fed ad libitum. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) 4 week old broiler birds were allotted to four treatment groups of 10 birds each with three replications in a completely randomized design (CRD). The results showed significant differences (P<0.05) in the feed intake, final weight gain and average weight gain but no significant differences were observed in feed conversion ratio. The control diet had the highest average weight gain of 1706.67g and Pueraria phaseoloides having the least value of 1208.33g. Pennisetum purpuruem exhibited the highest weight gains amongst the leaf meals under study. The shank and skin colouration was more apparent in the birds fed Moringa oleifera leaf meals showing that it may contain higher levels of xantophylls and other beneficial antioxidants. It could be concluded that Pennisetum purpuruem leaf meal in broiler finisher diet provided better results for optimum weight gain and productivity and is therefore recommended above Moringa and Pueraria.