Poultry Nutrition

This paper explores the role which climate plays on the severity of diseases and seasonal mortality rate of chicken in the guinea savanna ecological zone of Kwara State, Nigeria. Data on climate and mortality rate of chicken collected over a period of 23 years were partitioned according to characteristic weather types. Correlation and simple regression methods were used to analyze the data. The results of the analyses showed that weather types of each season affect outbreak of various diseases and mortality rate differently. In the dry season weather types, outbreak of Newcastle and Gumboro diseases prevailed most during harmattan. In this weather type, mortality rate of chicken exhibited a strong positive relationship of 0.711 with rainfall and a strong negative relationship of 0.604 with maximum temperature. The last two months of dry season (Mar-Apr) witnessed the reverse of the above but with Newcastle disease and heat stress plaguing chicken production. The most prevalent chicken disease of rainy season in the study area is Coccidiosis. During the first weather type of wet season (two months before August break) mortality rate of chicken exhibits a strong positive relationship of 0.861 and 0.845 before August break, 0.775 and 0.894 during August break with both rain fall and relative humidity. However mortality rate of chicken shows a negative relationship with both maximum and minimum temperatures. Suggestions are made on how to manage both major weather types and poultry operation for efficient poultry farm development in the topics.

Se autoriza la reproducción total o parcial, con fines académicos, por cualquier medio o procedimiento, incluyendo la cita bibliográfica del documento, siempre y cuando se reconozca el Derecho de Autor. iii Nosotros, Paúl Carrillo y José Vuelva declaramos que el presente trabajo de titulación es de nuestra autoría y los resultados del mismo son auténticos. Los textos en el documento que provienen de otras fuentes están debidamente citados y referenciados.

Creşterea puilor de carne are ca scop obţinerea de carne într-un timp scurt şi cu eficacitate economică maximă. Explozia demografică, îmbogăţirea substanţială a volumului de cunoştinţe privitor la alimentaţia raţională a omului, precum şi alte considerente de ordin social-economic, au condus la intensificarea creşterii puilor de carne şi la elaborarea tehnologiilor care să conducă la exteriorizarea capacităţilor de producţie. Puiul de carne este o realizare practică remarcabilă a geneticii şi nutriţiei, realizare ce a putut fi materializată datorită progreselor ştiinţifice şi tehnologice postbelice. Dezideratul principal al ambelor categorii de specialişti amintiţi mai sus, îl reprezintă rentabilitatea în exploatarea puilor de carne, prin găsirea căilor sau posibilităţilor de realizare a producţiei mari şi constante de carne în scurt timp, cu un minim de investiţii şi de cheltuieli. Creşterea puilor broileri este o activitate complexă, fiind într-o competiţie extrem de dură. Este foarte greu să depăşeşti performanţele productive realizate în UE, şi chiar în ţară. Pentru realizarea acestui deziderat s-a recurs într-o primă etapă de la creşterea tradiţională extensivă, la exploatarea de tip semiintensiv şi mai apoi, la cea de tip intensivindustrială. Obiectivul urmărit în această tranziţie a fost ridicarea potenţialului productiv al organismului puilor de carne în vederea obţinerii produsului scontat într-un timp mai redus, prin îmbunătăţirea substanţială a condiţiilor tehnologice de exploatare. În contextul relatat, creşterea industrială a puilor de carne presupune şi aplicarea unor programe imunoprofilactice specifice pentru ca aceste organisme productive să aibă o rezistenţă normală pentru orice stimul, endogen şi exogen. Teza începe printr-un cuvânt înainte şi o introducere, şi cuprinde 325 pagini, fiind structurată în două părţi. Prima parte (cap. 1-10) sintetizează principalele date bibliografice din literatura de specialitate şi constituie «Stadiul cunoaşterii». Partea a II-a este structurată pe 12 capitole. Capitolele 11-22, se referă la cercetările proprii privind dinamica indicilor de incubaţie, despre analiza diferenţiată a rezultatelor de producţie obţinute în decursul a doi ani, despre depopulări şi valorificările producţiei, despre evoluţia mortalităţilor şi a cauzelor acestora. Totodată, în aceste capitole se discută despre evoluţia titrurilor de anticorpi, introducerea de acidifianţi în apa de băut şi în furajul combinat destinat puilor de carne, precum şi influenţa acestora asupra indicilor biochimici sanguini şi a compoziţiei chimice a cărnii, a cercetării privind epurarea apelor uzate. În capitolul 22 al părţii a II-a, sunt sintetizate concluziile generale care sau desprins în urma cercetărilor efectuate. Lucrarea este ilustrată cu un număr de 51 de figuri, 79 de tabele, 64 de grafice, 6 scheme şi diagrame şi se bazează pe 193 titluri bibliografice. Prima parte a lucrării reprezintă o sinteză a datelor disponibile la ora actuală legate de creşterea puilor. ►Capitolul 1.: cuprinde date actuale şi tendinţe tehnologice cu privire la puii de carne pe plan mondial şi în ţara noastră, la evoluţia producţiilor, valorificarea la maxim a potenţialului genetic, la creşterea puilor de carne în era informaţiilor şi viitorul nutriţiei avicole, la siguranţa alimentară, la avicultura ecologică şi şansele ei în România, şi se încheie cu câteva consideraţii privind creşterea industrială a puilor de carne. ►Capitolul 2.: prezintă cerinţele privind amplasarea şi dotarea unei ferme de pui de carne şi căteva date despre incubaţia ouălor. ►Capitolul 3.: în acest capitol este prezentată tehnologia pregătirii halei în vederea populării. ►Capitolul 4.: cuprinde modul în care se face popularea halelor cu pui de o zi, tehnologia de hrănire şi adăpare folosită. ►Capitolul 5.: în cadrul acestui capitol se face referire la tractusul digestiv al păsărilor, pH-ul intestinal şi populaţiile de microorganisme ce-l populează odată cu folosirea acidifianţilor. ►Capitolul 6.: cuprinde aspecte actuale privind condiţiile de microclimat ce trebuie asigurate în creşterea puilor de carne (mediul de creştere, zona de confort, stresul de căldură, umiditatea, ventilaţia, componentele gazoase ale aerului şi iluminatul) ►Capitolul 7.: cuprinde normele minime sanitar-veterinare ce trebuie aplicate în perioada de creştere, cunoaşterea şi prevenirea bolilor la puii de carne. ►Capitolul 8. : în acest capitol sunt prezentate unele aspecte ale sistemului imun la păsări, fiind nominalizate organele implicate în răspunsul imun. Se face referire la limfocitele T şi B ca şi celule implicate în răspunsul imun. De asemenea, sunt scoase în evidenţă aspectele anatomopatologice şi histopatologice în diagnosticul bolilor. ►Capitolul 9. :cuprinde modul în care se fac vaccinările şi răspunsul imun la puii broiler. ►Capitolul 10. : cuprinde aspecte privind epurarea apelor uzate. ►CAPITOLUL 11 Capitolul de Cercetări proprii, este structurată pe 12 capitole. În contextul globalizării economiei, al aderării ţării noastre la UE şi al apariţiei unei pieţe concurenţiale, obţinerea unor pui de carne cu o calitate superioară a carcasei, asigurarea aspectului comercial al produselor şi a unui preţ competitiv al acestora reprezintă condiţiile esenţiale pentru dezvoltarea în România a producţiei de carne de pasăre. La fel ca în toate ţările dezvoltate ale lumii, şi în România a crescut exigenţa consumatorului faţă de calitatea cărnii şi a produselor din carne de pasăre. Modificarea permanentă a potenţialului genetic al hibrizilor de carne impune reevaluarea continuă a cerinţelor de energie, proteină, aminoacizi şi microelemente în funcţie de faza de hrănire şi de vârsta de sacrificare a puilor de carne. Hrana şi apa administrată puilor de carne influenţează în mod hotărâtor, atât performanţele bioproductive cât şi calitatea carcasei, permiţând exprimarea potenţialului genetic ridicat al hibridului. Ca urmare, există recomandări diferite privind cerinţele de energie, proteină, AA, macrominerale, oligominerale, vitamine şi aditivi ale puilor de carne, respectiv conţinutul în nutrienţi al nutreţului combinat care se administrează în funcţie de vârsta puilor, astfel încât să se obţină rezultate de producţie cât mai bune, în condiţii de eficienţă economică. Se cunoaşte faptul că, utilizarea aditivilor constituie o cale sigură de deblocare a potenţialului productiv al păsărilor. Aportul prin furaje al aditivilor în condiţii de creştere intensivă este insuficient, atât din cauza conţinutului foarte variabil al materiilor prime furajere utilizate pentru producerea nutreţurilor combinate, cât şi a existenţei unor antagonisme de absorbţie. Aceasta face necesară suplimentarea cu ajutorul compuşilor de natură anorganică, precum şi a unor compuşi chimici de natură organică care se regăsesc în ciclul Krebs, dintre care mai important pentru protejarea ficatului este acidul aspartic sub formă de sare de magneziu, în vederea prevenirii tulburărilor de metabolism, a prelungirii perioadei de exploatare şi pentru îmbunătăţirea performanţelor bioproductive ale puilor de carne. Estimarea cerinţelor în compuşi chimici de natură organică sau anorganică reprezintă o problemă deosebit de dificilă, atât din cauza neconcordanţelor rezultatelor metodelor de determinare cât şi a multitudinii factorilor de influenţă a acestora. Numeroase cercetări relevă diferenţe mari ale gradului de utilizare digestivă a fiecărui compus organic sau anorganic, în funcţie de forma chimică utilizată ca sursă. În acest context, se înscriu cercetările întreprinse în cadrul prezentei teze de doctorat, vizând efectul nutriţional şi metabolic în apa şi în hrana puilor de carne, al acicifianţilor folosiţi, sub diferite forme şi cu diferite grade de solubilitate. Scopul cercetărilor acestei teme de doctorat a constat în analiza indicilor de incubaţie şi posibilităţile de îmbunătăţire a acestora; îmbunătăţirea performanţelor productive ale puilor de carne (masa corporală, consum specific, indici biochimici, compoziţia chimică a cărnii, constante sanguine) la hibrizii de carne COBB -500, Hybro PN şi ROSS-308; eficacitatea acţiunilor sanitar veterinare aplicate, reflectate în pierderile prin mortalităţi reliefate prin analiza anatomopatologică, histologică şi imunohistochimică în vederea elucidării pierderilor, precum şi reducerea poluării prin îmbunătăţiri aduse staţiei de epurare a apelor uzate. Utilizarea aditivilor constituie o cale sigură de stimulare a potenţialului productiv al păsărilor. Obiectivul cercetărilor s-a axat pe influenţa pe care o au asupra principalilor indici de producţie, (sporul în greutate, starea de sănătate, mortalitatea, gradul de utilizare a nutreţurilor, evaluat prin consumul specific/kg spor), unii ingredienţi care, adăugaţi în hrana păsărilor sau a apei de băut, conduc la modificarea pH-ului în (guşă, proventricul, stomac, intestine). Se cunoaşte faptul că valoarea pH-ului este responsabilă de condiţiile propice sau nu dezvoltării organismelor producătoare de acid lactic, care inhibă acţiunea agenţilor patogeni. Pentru obţinerea unei mase corporale mari şi a unor carcase de calitate superioară, într-un timp scurt, se impune, pe lângă modernizarea tehnologiilor de creştere şi îmbunătăţirea condiţiilor de microclimat, şi o alimentaţie şi adăpare corespunzătoare. Puii de carne se caracterizează printr-un matabolism intens. Ca urmare, eventualele dezechilibre nutriţionale se reflectă promt în metabolismul general cu efecte negative asupra sănătăţii şi producţiei. 1. Urmărirea valorilor indicilor de incubaţie (fecunditate, mortalitate şi ecloziune) la hibridul COBB-500. 2. Analiza diferenţiată a indicilor de producţie la trei hibrizi crescuţi în adăposturi diferite, utilizând surse de proteină vegetală şi animală. 3. Monitorizarea profilaxiei, eficacităţii vaccinurilor şi titrul anticorpilor. 4. Corelaţia existentă între vaccinare, imunitate, titruri şi remanenţa acestora. 5. Utilizarea...

Propolis is a resin-like mixture produced by bees and composed of natural substances demonstrating a broad range of biological activity, e.g. antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidizing, immunostimulating and immunomodulating effects. Among abundant research on its properties has been carried out but a few reports concerning the use of this substance in animal production, particularly in poultry breeding are available. There is little information about its effects upon the morphology of individual organs and tissues predisposed to damage as a result of intensive fattening of poultry. A-day old 400 chicks were divided into equal four groups. Group 1 and 2 served as negative and positive control, respectively. Group 3 and 4 were kept on propolis (10 and 50 mg/kg of feed) supplemented feed for 42 days, respectively. At the end, randomly selected 12 birds from each group were killed humanly. Gross lesions were noted and liver and kidney samples were processed for histopathological studies. The results demonstrated a protective effect of propolis particularly upon the liver of broiler chickens, in which it reduced the intensity of regressive lesions. This protective effect was noticeable especially in the group of birds receiving a higher dose of propolis.

This study evaluated the effect of probiotic supplementation (Lactobacillus casei) in drinking water on broiler performance. A total of 200, day old chicks were randomly assigned to five treatment groups (T1-T5) with four replicates of 10 chicks each and reared for six weeks. The groups comprised T1 (control, basal diet), T2 (basal diet + 1% L. casei), T3 (basal diet + 2% L. casei), T4

It was carried out the feeding experiment with broiler chickens Cobb.  There were collected two groups with 100 pcs broilers in each group. The first group was fed by the feed mixtures with 4% lucerne meal and the second group was fed without the addition of lucerne meal. There were studied the effect of lucerne meal for growing chicken abilities and microbiology colonization of intestine.  Saponins and fiber content in feed mixtures with 4% lucerne meal had non-statistically significant effect on the growth ability of chickens (p>0.05).We studied microbiology of  appendix´s. There were determined  Lactobacillus sp.,  Enterococcus sp. and Escherichia coli. The average number of  Lactobacillus sp. in chyme appendix´s was from 8.72 to 8.90 log KTJ per g, the average number of Enterococcus sp. was from 7.76 to 7.68 log KTJ per g and E. Coli from 7.49 to 7.42 log KTJ per g.

Tamarind seed, an abundant agricultural waste, contains a large amount of naturally occurring anti-nutrient, tannin. This study aimed at evaluating the detannification efficiency of tannase producing Bacillus subtilis PAB2 in comparison with enzymatic and conventional physical techniques, and assessment of its health promoting effect in chicken model. Microbial fermentation resulted in lowering of 80.8% tannin, whereas enzymatic and physical treatment removed only 48 and 28.6%, respectively. To assess the health beneficial effects, experimental schedule for poultry chicken model was designed viz., (T1) commercial food, (T2) T1+tamarind seeds, (T3) T1+enzymatic detannified seeds and (T4) T1+ fermented seeds. It was found that physiological indices of chicken in T4 group improved more than T2, but those were comparable with T1 and T3. The level of total plasma protein, albumin and other haematological parameters also significantly (P

Chitosan, a modification of shrimp-shell waste, has been utilized as microcapsule. However, it’s fragile gel property needs to be strengthened by adding glutaraldehyde (glu) and natural hydrocolloid guar gum (gg). This research’s purposes were to study dissolution behaviour of ketoprofen and infar through optimum chitosan-guar gum microcapsule. Into 228.6 mL of 1.75% (w/v) chitosan solution in 1% (v/v) acetic acid,38.1 mL of gg solution was added with concentration variation of 0.35, 0.55, and 0.75% (w/v) for ketoprofen microcapsules and 0.05, 0.19, and 0.33% (w/v) for infar microcapsules, and stirred with magnetic stirrer until homogenous. Afterwards, 7.62mL of glu was added slowly under stirring, with concentrations varied: 3, 3.5, and 4% (v/v) for ketoprofen microcapsules, and 4, 4.5, and 5% (v/v) for infar microcapsules. All mixtures were shaked for 20 minutes for homogenization. All mixtures wereshaked for 20 minutes for homogenization. Into each  microcapsule mixture for ketop...

Supplementing enzymes in diet can improve animal performance, carcass traits, physiological status, and reduce cost of feeding due to improving feed utilization. Enzyme supplementation in water is simple to apply, disseminates, and the contact with the substrates is faster. In addition, water supplementation may lessen the negative effects of aggressive heat exposure on enzyme activities when the pelleting temperature exceeds 85 • C and can replace expensive post-pelleting spraying systems. We investigated the effect of different doses of enzymes supplemented in water either continuously or intermittently on growth performance, digestibility of nutrients, and blood profiles. Results indicated that intermittent supplementation of enzymes at 1 mL/L drinking water and continuous supplementation at 0.5 mL/L drinking water can be investigated in further experiments as a tool to improve broiler performance and European production index.

This study on the prevalence of poultry diseases in Bangladesh's Gopalganj district provides an overview of the challenges faced by local farmers. The research identifies Gumboro disease (35%) and Newcastle disease (15%) as the most common illnesses, contributing to high mortality rates, particularly in young birds. The findings also reveal that poor biosecurity and a lack of vaccination on some farms contribute to the spread of disease. The paper suggests that improving farm management, enhancing biosecurity, and promoting vaccination programs are crucial for the sustainability of the region's poultry industry.

A study was conducted to compare four commercial broiler breeder strains i.e. Arbor Acer (AA), Hubbard (HB), Hybro (HY) and Starbro (ST). Egg characteristics, hatchability, infertility and chick weights were evaluated. One hundered and sixty eggs/strain were used for measurement of egg characteristics and 600 eggs/strain were incubated to compare the hatching traits. AA had significantly lowest and HB had the highest egg weight and hatchability compared to all strains. After adjusting egg weight, HB had significantly highest yolk weight, yolk diameter, yolk height, albumen height and ST had significantly highest albumen weight and height. Lowest chick weight was in AA and HY. These results indicated significant strain variations. Negative linear regression was observed only for albumen weight, yolk and albumen height. Hatchability, infertility, dead in germ, dead in shell percentages showed significant differences among these broiler strains. On the basis of this study it may be concluded that HB has better hatchability results as compared to AA, HY and ST strains.

In recent years, biological extracts have emerged as promising agents for the rapid synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) exhibiting strong antibacterial properties. This study was designed to synthesize and optimize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the leaf extract of Moringa oleifera. Fresh M. oleifera leaves were boiled to prepare aqueous extracts, which were mixed with 1 mM AgNO₃ solution under direct sunlight to drive nanoparticle formation. A distinct color change from pale yellow to dark brown within 30 minutes indicated AgNPs synthesis, which was confirmed using UV-Vis spectroscopy (SPR peak at 434 nm). The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized AgNPs was evaluated against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using well diffusion and disc diffusion assays. Biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited strong antibacterial potential. In well diffusion, inhibition zones were 15.0±0.5, 17.8±0.7, and 20.2±0.8mm at 25, 50, and 100µg/mL, respectively. In disc diffusion, inhibition zones were 21.5±1.5mm (50µg/disc) and 27.3±2.0mm (100µg/disc). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) analysis revealed complete inhibition of E. coli growth at 5.0mM AgNP concentration, showing a clear dose-dependent effect. This study demonstrates a green, cost-effective, and efficient method for AgNP synthesis using M. oleifera leaf extract. The nanoparticles displayed significant antimicrobial activity, suggesting their potential application as broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents in biomedical and environmental domains.

Background: Saudi arabian plants have a rich biodiversity and are an important source of medicinal plants. The environmental conditions of Saudi Arabia have forced plants to develop adaptive mechanisms. This results in production of the numbers of secondary metabolites. Rhazya stricta contains glycosides, alkaloids, tannins and triterpenes, which have anti-cancer, antiinflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Methods: GC-MS and FT-IR analyses were used in this study to detect the phytochemical composition of the extract of R. stricta. The antioxidant activity of R. stricta extract was assessed in vitro using ABTS assays and the IC 50 values were determined. The in-vitro antiparasitic activity was evaluated using five distinct concentrations of R. stricta extract. The extract's inhibition of sporulated oocysts was evaluated after 72 hours. Result: The GC-MS analysis identified approximately 20 primary biologically active compounds. The FT-IR analysis of the R. stricta extract revealed the presence of 10 distinct compounds. The extract exhibited significant antioxidant properties, with inhibition rates varying from 92.41% to 22.76% across concentrations of 500 to 15.625 μg/mL. The IC 50 value was determined to be 45.3658 μg/mL. The antiparasitic effects were evaluated in vitro, revealing that oocysts exhibited the highest level of inhibition at concentrations of 50 mg/mL and 25 mg/mL.

The objective was to develop a fast and accurate molecular method for the quantification of the intestinal flora in chickens by rRNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Seven weeks old conventionally reared Lohmann hens were used to set up the method. To sample ileal intestinal content, the distal part from Meckels diverticulum to the ileo-caecal junction was removed. Fixation was performed in ethanol and phosphate buffered saline. After washing by centrifugation, the sample was resuspended in pre-heated hybridization buffer with oligonucleotide probe labelled with Cy3 (10ng/µl). The cells were hybridized for 24-72h, centrifuged, washed with pre-heated hybridization buffer, centrifuged and resuspended in Millipore quality water before filtration onto a 0.22 µm black polycarbonate filter. The probes used in this study were, LGC354A, LGC354B, LGC354C, Strc493, Bacto1080, Sal3, Chis150, EUB338, Probe D and Non-EUB338 according to previous publications. Cultures of 38 bacterial strains representing type strains within the genera Bacillus, Listeria, Campylobacter, Bacteroides, Clostridium, Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Escherichia, Salmonella and Lactobacillus were used for optimization of hybridization conditions on slides. Signal was obtained from all 38 reference strains with probe EUB338 and not from the non-sense probe Non-EUB338. In most cases, signal was obtained from the expected target sequence. In the samples from the seven weeks old Lohman hens, 3-7×10 8 bacterial cells per g of sample were counted by the EUB338 probe. Three weeks old male broiler Ross 308 chickens were used to investigate the bacterial composition of the intestine. The birds received a wheat-barley diet. Counts with the EUB338 probe were 1.97×10 8 (std 1.45×10 8 ) The means of counts obtained with probes targeting the rRNA of genera Lactobacillus, Bacillus, Enterococcus-Streptococcus, Enterobacteriaceae, Salmonella, Clostridium and Bacteriodes were around 1 ×10 8 bacterial cells per g of gut material. As for the EUB338 probe, huge variations were observed between the six different samples analysed even though each sample was obtained from a pool of six chickens allocated in the same cage. The technique will be used to investigate the effect of antimicrobials, feed additive, rearing conditions and Salmonella -and Campylobacter status on the bacterial composition of the chicken intestine.

Background and Aim: Enhancing poultry reproductive performance is essential for improving productivity and addressing protein shortages in developing regions. Yoruba ecotype chickens (YECs) are resilient but limited in commercial potential due to small body size and low egg yield. This study assessed the fertilizing potential of YEC × Sussex (SS) crossbred cocks by integrating conventional reproductive morphometrics with seminal plasma metabolite profiling to identify potential biomarkers of sperm quality.

Materials and Methods: Thirty 24-week-old YEC × SS cocks (2842.86 ± 137.33 g) were evaluated over 28 days. Semen was collected through abdominal massage, and semen volume, sperm concentration, and testosterone levels (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) were recorded. Testicular and epididymal morphometrics, densities, and sperm reserves were mea­sured. Seminal plasma metabolites were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Pearson correlations and linear regression models were applied to predict testosterone concentration from semen and morphometric traits.

Results: The left testis was heavier (8.00 g) and larger in volume (12.77 mL) than the right (6.75 g; 1.35 mL). Spermatozoa reserves averaged 0.20 × 109, with a strong positive correlation with testis volume (r = 0.998, p < 0.01) and a moderate neg­ative correlation with daily sperm production (r = –0.585, p < 0.01). Testosterone concentration prediction from live weight, semen volume, and sperm concentration achieved high accuracy (R2 = 0.829). Thirteen seminal plasma metabolites were identified, including ascorbic acid, quercetin, epicatechin, citric acid, and procyanidin B2 – compounds linked to antioxidant defense, energy metabolism, and sperm viability.

Conclusion: YEC × SS crossbred cocks exhibit favorable reproductive morphometrics, strong correlations between testis vol­ume and sperm reserves, and a metabolite profile enriched in fertility-enhancing antioxidants. Predictive models using basic semen traits can reliably estimate testosterone levels, while identified metabolites have potential as biochemical markers for breeding selection. Integrating morphometric and metabolomic profiling can refine breeding strategies, improve artifi­cial insemination outcomes, and enhance the genetic improvement of local poultry breeds.


Keywords: metabolomics, morphometrics, sperm quality, Sussex crossbreed, food security, Yoruba ecotype.

Generally, Bacteria in the intestine consist of beneficial bacteria and bacteria that have the potential to disrupt animal health such as pathogenic bacteria. The presence of pathogenic bacteria is one of the factors that cause gastrointestinal dysfunction, but can be suppressed by maintaining the presence of beneficial bacteria for the digestive tract, especially the type of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) (Astuti, 2016). LAB has antagonistic activity because it is able to inhibit pathogenic bacteria so it can compete to maintain normal flora balance in the digestive tract.  The main inhibitory activity of LAB is caused by the accumulation of primary metabolites such as lactic acid, acetic acid, ethanol, and carbon dioxide. In addition, LAB is also capable of producing antibacterial compounds such as bacteriocins (Furtado et al ., 2014) . Naturally LAB has existed in the digestive tract of chickens, but it is easy to experience changes in the amount due to the influence of given the fee...

This study examined the prebiotic potential of date pit powder incorporated into a wheat-based diet, on the performance in broiler chickens. In this experiment 240 broiler chicks were used in a completely randomized design with six treatments and five replicates. The experimental treatments consisted of: 1- positive control (PC, based on the corn-soybean meal), 2-negative control (NC, based on the wheat-soybean meal), 3- NCP; NC with prebiotic, 4- NCE; NC with enzyme, 5- 1.5NCDP; NC with 1.5 % date pit powder and 6- 3NCDP; NC with 3 % date pit powder. The results showed that during the starter period, the PC group had the lowest feed intake and the best feed conversion ratio among the groups (P<0.05). The Escherichia coli population in cecal contents of the NCE and 3NCDP groups were lower significantly than in PC. The ileal content pH in NC was higher than that in PC, NCE, and 1.5NCDP groups. By adding prebiotics and enzymes to wheat-based broiler diets, the primary and secondary antibody titers against SRBC were increased compared to NC group. In conclusion, supplementing wheat-based broiler diets with 1.5% date pit powder enhanced birds gut health.

In this study, the ability of dietary supplementation (2%) with fresh garlic (Allium sativum), onion (Allium cepa), and hot chili pepper (Capsicum annuum) to reduce cold stress and improve the productivity response of indigenous laying hens (Gallus gallus domesticus) was investigated. These dietary additives were administered over a two-month period, from November to December. Hens (36 weeks old; n = 180) were assigned to four groups (n = 45/group) and housed in a Mediterranean temperate climate, where temperatures can drop as low as 3°C. Two percent supplements or cornmeal-based diets without supplements (control) were administered to the groups. Assessments were made on egg production, feed conversion ratio (FCR), egg quality, cholesterol levels, and plasma hormones, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and corticosterone. The results showed no significant differences in body weight (P>0.05) across the groups. However, throughout the experiment, egg production, feed conversion ratio, and egg mass were significantly higher (P<0.05) in all supplemented groups. Egg protein content improved (P<0.05) with garlic and chili, and garlic supplementation reduced cholesterol levels (P<0.05). Yolk color was enhanced by the chili additive (P<0.05). Garlic and chili also elevated FSH and LH levels (P<0.05) and reduced corticosterone concentrations (P<0.05), while onion showed milder effects. These findings suggested that Allium sativum and Capsicum annuum enhance cold stress resilience, productivity, and egg quality in laying hens, supporting their use as natural feed additives to improve welfare and performance under cold stress conditions.

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) are emerging as a promising alternative to traditional protein and fat sources in animal feed and pet food. Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of BSFL meal as a partial or complete substitute for fishmeal and soybean meal in poultry diets, showing improvements in growth performance, feed efficiency, meat quality, and animal welfare. For laying hens, BSFL meal enhances egg production and quality and improves yolk fatty acid and amino acid profiles. These benefits are attributed to BSFL's rich protein content, balanced amino acid profile, essential fatty acids, and prebiotic properties. The nutritional composition of BSFL can be manipulated by varying their feed substrates, allowing customization to meet specific poultry species' needs and production goals. BSFL contain chitin, a prebiotic that supports a balanced gut microbiota, and lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with antimicrobial properties, which can enhance gut health and potentially reduce antibiotic use in poultry production. Live BSFL can serve as environmental enrichment, promoting natural foraging behaviours and reducing stress-related behaviours. This enrichment improves leg health in broilers, enhances plumage status in layers and ducks, and reduces aggressive pecking in turkeys. The growing demand for BSFL in poultry feed has spurred commercial production efforts to provide sustainable and cost-effective protein sources. However, the optimal use of BSFL in poultry diets is still under investigation. This review aims to consolidate existing research on BSFL in poultry production, highlighting potential benefits and challenges. By identifying research gaps, this review provides valuable insights to guide future studies and support poultry farmers and researchers in optimizing BSFL use.

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.) larvae (BSFL) are a promising alternative to traditional animal feed sources due to their high nutritional value, including protein (8-60% DM), fat (18-40% DM), essential amino acids, minerals, and lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties. The nutritional content of BSFL varies depending on the rearing substrate. Incorporating BSFL into the diets of various livestock species has led to improvements in growth performance, feed efficiency, product quality, and potentially animal welfare. The significance of BSFL in animal agriculture stems from the increasing demand for animal protein, which is expected to double by 2030, leading to a feed gap that BSFL can help address. BSFL farming offers a cost-effective and sustainable solution by converting organic waste into high-quality biomass, aligning with circular economy principles. However, further research is needed to better understand the effects of BSFL supplementation on animal responses, as a replacement for conventional feed sources like fish meal and soybean meal, which are costly, limited in supply, and environmentally impactful. This research will contribute to the development of more sustainable and efficient livestock production systems.

Background and Aim: Gamma-oryzanol, a bioactive compound derived from rice bran, is recognized for its antioxidant and metabolic regulatory properties. This study evaluated the effects of dietary gamma-oryzanol supplementation on laying performance, egg quality, blood health, and follicular development in Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica).

Materials and Methods: A total of 216 12-week-old laying quails were randomly assigned to six groups receiving gamma-oryzanol at 0 (control), 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 g/kg of diet for 7 weeks. Feed intake, egg production, feed conver­sion ratio, egg quality traits, hematological and biochemical parameters, and ovarian follicular characteristics were mea­sured. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way analysis of variance and Duncan’s post hoc test.

Results: Gamma-oryzanol at 0.2 g/kg significantly increased egg production (98.69%) compared to the control (86.80%). Supplementation at 0.3–0.5 g/kg improved eggshell thickness and yolk index (p < 0.05). Red blood cell counts were signifi­cantly higher at 0.4 g/kg, indicating enhanced erythropoiesis. Other hematological and biochemical parameters remained unchanged. A significant increase in small white follicle count and F3 follicle diameter was observed at 0.5 g/kg, indicating improved follicular development.

Conclusion: Gamma-oryzanol supplementation at 0.2–0.5 g/kg enhanced laying performance, egg quality, and ovarian fol­licle development without adverse hematological or biochemical effects. The compound shows potential as a safe and functional feed additive to support productivity and reproductive efficiency in commercial quail production.


Keywords: antioxidant feed additive, egg quality, follicular development, gamma-oryzanol, Japanese quails, laying performance.

The study aimed to assess the growth and yield of purple corn to organic fertilizers. A field experiment was laid out following RCBD design in single factor and conducted at Agbannawag, Tabuk City, Kalinga. The treatments were designated as follows: T0 -No fertilizer (Check), T1 -6kg Bio-synergy, T2 -12kg vermicompost, and T3 -3kg Bio-synergy + 6kg vermicompost. Purple corn produced tassel at 49 days, 53 days in silking, and matured at 87 days. It was observed that this cultivar changes its agronomic characteristics in a hot environment compared to its normal condition. Results of the field experiment showed that the application of 6kg bio-synergy + 12kg vermicompost revealed a highly significant number of kernel/ears of ±267.35 and ±253.56, respectively. In terms of plant height at the milk stage, the combined application of 6kg bio-synergy and vermicompost showed a significant result with a mean of ±216.51cm compared to other treatments. The combined application of 6kg of bio-synergy and vermicompost highly influenced the weight of 1000 kernel with ±283.33 g, and ±7.94kg for the biomass. No significant results found in the days to silking, tasseling, maturity, and ear height of the purple corn. Moreover, the combined application of the two organic fertilizers produced highly significant results of ±4.96 tons/ha compared to a single application of organic fertilizers. This has proven that combining the application of two organic fertilizers significantly affects the yielding character of Kalinga's purple corn.

are also excellent mothers, capable of thriving in hilly terrains with dense vegetation with their ability to evade predators (Kumar et al., 2016). These birds primarily fulfill their nutritional needs through scavenging, while farmers supplement their diet with limited household grains (Kumar et al., 2013b). Indigenous chickens possess strong brooding instincts, making them ideal for natural incubation and chick rearing (Kumar et al., 2013c). Utilizing broody hens for incubation and brooding is a practical, cost-effective approach for rural farmers (Shimmura et al., 2015). Although farmers follow supplementary feeding and watering practices for indigenous chickens and have long relied on natural incubation methods to produce chicks, there is a lack of scientific documentation on these practices. The present study was aimed at addressing this paucity of information.

Indian poultry industry is fast growing and poultry meat is not subjected to cultural and religious restrictions. Utilization of medicinal plants as feed ingredient for broilers is increasing due to its growth promoting quality and capacity to reduce antimicrobial resistance among broilers. Selenium is an essential micronutrient required for normal growth and maintenance in poultry. The present experimental study was undertaken to study the effects of selenium and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on haematological and immunological parameters of VenCobb-400 broilers. Three hundred and sixty (360) day old chicks were selected and divided in to six groups (T0 to T5) with 3 replicates of each group, 20 chicks in each replicate. Ashwagandha and selenium were supplemented in broiler chicken feed at different levels for different group. The haematological parameters viz. haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, total erythrocyte count, total leucocyte count and differential leucocyt...

The Conversion of Organic Refuse by Saprophagus (CORS) technique controls organic waste by employing decomposer insects such as Diptera Hermetia illucens L., also known as Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae. The application of BSF as an alternative protein in animal feeds, including aquaculture, was reviewed. The BSF larvae can turn food waste into biomass, which can be utilized to create new food sources for humans and animals. The BSF has a high percentage of easily digestible protein with amino acid profiles suitable for most cattle and animals. The BSF larvae contain high protein levels (37-63%) and other macro and micronutrients required for animal feed. BSF larvae contain lipids and oils that can be fed to animals. Because of their high protein and lipid content, BSF larvae meal and oil are already considered an animal-grade alternative to fish meal and fish oil used to feed carnivorous fish and other animals.
Employing BSF larvae is feasible based on the different experiment or reviewed done by the different researchers and authors. Studies was conducted on the different species as alternative protein source in the fed diet of fish such as tilapia, catfish, rainbow trout, turbot, and Atlantic salmon, and invertebrates like shrimp. It was found that BSF larvae can play a big role in sustainable aquaculture as a partial or full meal replacement because they can make protein-rich edible biomass from organic wastes efficiently.

Background and Aim: Feed constitutes 60%–70% of total poultry production costs, and optimizing feed processing is criti­cal for improving efficiency. This study evaluated the effect of varying hammer mill speeds (HMSs) during corn grinding on growth performance, pellet quality, gizzard morphology, and expression of growth-related genes (growth hormone [GH], GH receptor [GHR], insulin-like growth factors 1 and 2 [IGF1, IGF2]) in broiler chickens.

Materials and Methods: A total of 1,500 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly divided into three groups: HMS100 (control, 100% HMS), HMS75 (75% HMS), and HMS50 (50% HMS), each with five replicates of 100 birds. Birds were fed isocaloric, isonitrogenous pelleted diets for 28 days. Performance metrics, pellet durability and hardness, gizzard morphology, and intestinal length were assessed. Gene expression analysis in gizzard tissue was conducted using quantita­tive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for GH, GHR, IGF1, and IGF2.

Results: Broilers in the HMS75 and HMS50 groups exhibited significantly lower feed intake (by 4.03% and 3.99%) and higher body weight (BW) (by 5.29% and 3.53%) compared to HMS100 (p < 0.05). HMS75 significantly improved feed conversion ratio by 6.81% and BW gain by 5.04% (p < 0.05). Pellet durability and hardness were enhanced in both HMS75 and HMS50 groups (p < 0.05). Gizzard width and muscle thickness were significantly increased at reduced mill speeds, especially in HMS50. Intestinal length was longest in HMS75 (1.96 m). Gene expression analysis revealed a 113% increase in GH expres­sion in HMS75 and a 303% upregulation of IGF2 in HMS50 compared to HMS100 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Reducing HMS to 75% optimized broiler growth performance, pellet quality, and intestinal development, while 50% speed promoted IGF2-mediated gizzard hypertrophy. Hammer mill modulation provides a practical strategy to balance feed efficiency and targeted tissue growth in broilers.


Keywords: broiler chickens, feed conversion efficiency, gizzard morphology, growth performance, hammer mill speed, insulin-like growth factor 2 expression, pellet durability.

In the present study 960 birds (12 week old) of four closebred flocks (CBF) of Japanese quail breeders were used to explore effects of mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) on egg geometry and egg quality characteristics. Diet given to birds comprised of corn-based or corn supplemented with 0.25%, 0.50% and 1.0% MOS for 15 weeks. Collected data was analyzed by two-way ANOVA utilizing SAS 9.1 for windows. Birds fed MOS supplemented diets had significantly (p 0.05) differed in MOS supplemented and control groups, however, a significant change was recorded among CBF and interaction of CBF and MOS levels. From obtained results, it is concluded that MOS did not significantly affect the egg quality and egg geometry in laying quails except eggs&#39; weight.

This research was conducted to assess the utilization, availability and chemical composition of A. filiculoides in the water logged areas of South Gondar Zone and evaluate its chemical composition and growth performance under different fertilizer application. 304 farmers from three rural kebeles were interviewed to assess the availability and utilization. To evaluate the growth performance and chemical composition, twelve earthen ponds of four treatments with three replications were used. Based on the survey, Azolla was found to be the most dominant and one of chicken feed aquatic plant. Based on the experiment, the biomass, Relative Growth Rate (RGR) and Doubling Time (DT) showed highly significant difference (P<0.001) among the treatment groups and T2 and T4 exhibited significantly better performance than other treatments. The proximate analysis revealed that the Crude Protein (CP), Crude Fiber (CF), ash and Metabolizable Energy (ME) showed significant difference among treatments. The CP content of T3 (32.26%) and T4 (32.07%) were significantly higher (P<0.01) than the control and T2. The secondary chemical analysis revealed that alkaloids were present in higher percentage than the recommended proportion. Some proportion of A. filiculoides can be considered to be used as feed source due to chickens' preference to feed in the villages, its high biomass yield, growth performance and CP content.

Background: A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of prebiotic containing yeast origin mannan oligosaccharide and β-glucan (Agrimos®) on immunity, disease susceptibility and growth performance of newborn goat kids. Methods: The prebiotic was directly fed to kids from day 03 to day 30 of life @ 100 mg/kg body weight/day. Result: Results revealed significant reduction in lipopolysaccharide induced release of cytokines-TNF-α as well as IL-10 in the supplemented group when compared to the unsupplemented group. The group treated with prebiotic, exhibited enhanced resistance to infections during the initial two months of life. The protective effect of the prebiotic against cumulative disease incidence persisted as long as it was regularly administered, but gradually waned off after the cessation of feeding. Prebiotic supplementation provided substantial protection against infectious diseases, reducing morbidity and proving effective against septic insults in goat kids. Given that neonatal goat kids are born agammaglobulinemic with immature innate and adaptive immune systems, prebiotic supplementation could serve as a beneficial approach to enhance their health, boost their immunity and promote their overall metabolic activity until their immune system becomes fully functional.

Previous studies have documented the synthesis of prebiotics from agricultural wastes using Aspergillus fungi in solid-state fermentation. This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with fermented wheat bran (FWB), produced through solid-state fermentation with Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus oryzae, on broiler performance and intestinal morphology under cyclic heat stress conditions. The experiment followed a 4 × 2 factorial design, incorporating four FWB inclusion levels (0.00, 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15% of the diet, representing control and low, moderate, and high supplementation levels, respectively) and two broiler strains (Arian and Ross 308), with six replicates of six female chicks each. A total of 576 one-day-old chicks (288 Ross 308 and 288 Arian) was randomly assigned to treatment groups housed in wire mesh cages. From days 22 to 35, all birds were exposed to heat stress (HS). Dietary supplementation with 0.15% FWB significantly decreased feed intake (P<0.05) in both broiler strains during the period following HS exposure (35-42 d). Among Arian broilers, a high level of FWB supplementation resulted in poorer performance under HS conditions (22-35 days of age). In contrast, Ross broilers fed with 0.05% FWB demonstrated improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) throughout the rearing period (P<0.05). Additionally, all FWB supplementation levels were linked to a reduction in jejunal and ileal villus surface area in Arian chickens (P<0.05). These findings highlight the importance of exercising caution when recommending fermented wheat bran as a feed additive for broilers. Key factors such as the broiler strain, appropriate dosage, and the potential presence of mycotoxins-particularly ochratoxin A-must be carefully considered to ensure safety and effectiveness.

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of Peganum harmala seed powder (PHSP) and alcoholic Peganum harmala seed extract (PHSE) on growth performance, carcass parameter, and nutrient digestibility in Japanese quails reared on the litter and in tier cages. Nine hundred and sixty day-old Japanese quails were kept on the litter and in the tier cages and received a control (basal diet) and diets containing 0.2% PHSP, 0.2% PHSE, or 0.05% Maduramycin® coccidiostat. The experiment consisted of eight treatments, each with four replicates, and each replicate contained 30 quails. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS software (version 9.4) in a completely randomized design. The birds had free access to feed and water and were raised under the same climatic conditions. Body weight and feed intake were measured weekly. Final body weight, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, and fat digestibility of quail on the litter system were 6.83%, 9.91%, 9.76% and 15.77% better than those in the tier cages. The final body weight, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, fat and dry matter digestibility of the birds receiving Peganum harmala seed extract were 3.99%, 5.52, 7.27%, 4.52% and 10.44% greater than the control treatment respectively. The data suggested that 0.2% Peganum harmala seed extract could be added to the diet of quails reared on the litter.

This study investigates the operational, production, and financial performance of broiler farming using the COBB 430 Y strain at the Instructional Livestock Complex (ILFC). A total of 1,439 chicks were reared over 40 days, achieving an average Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) of 1.52 and an average market weight of 2.12 kg by the final selling phase. The farm's mortality rate of 4.65%, which was mostly caused by enteritis (6%), and colibacillosis (44.8%), surpassed the aim of 3.18% even though the farm consistently increased its weight. Financially, the farm made a total expenditure of ₹2,55,427, including feed, chick procurement, and health management, while generating an income of ₹2,67,098.95 through broiler sales. This resulted in a modest net income of ₹11,671.95 and a benefit-cost ratio of 1.05, confirming the economic feasibility of the operation despite the challenges faced. The findings emphasise optimizing health management, biosecurity measures, and environmental conditions to minimize losses and enhance profitability. This report provides valuable insights into raising broiler farming and shows how strategic management techniques can lead to sustainable production. In order to further increase productivity and financial returns, future initiatives should focus on health issues including colibacillosis, bettering feed efficiency, and lowering mortality rates.

A survey to document the production characteristics of COBB 430 Y broiler and egg recording study to record egg production characteristics of BV 300 strain layer birds were conducted in the LFC farm, IVSAH, SOA. This study was conducted to determine the profitability and performance of commercial broiler and layer strain that was being reared under intensive farming system. The broiler were reared from day one to 35 days and the spent hen layer were reared from 77 weeks to 82 weeks of age following the same pattern of feeding, housing and managemental condition.

Background and Aim: Hemp inflorescence meal (HIM) is a byproduct of cannabinoid extraction and offers a sustainable, nutrient-rich alternative for animal feed. However, its application in poultry diets remains limited due to concerns regarding residual cannabinoid transfer to eggs. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition, metabolizable energy, production performance, egg quality, and cannabinoid residue safety of HIM when included in laying hen diets.

Materials and Methods: HIM was analyzed for proximate composition, amino acid profile, and cannabinoid content (cannabidiol [CBD] and tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]) using standard analytical methods and liquid chromatography-diode array detection. Apparent metabolizable energy (AME) was determined through prediction equations and in vivo assays using chromium oxide as a marker. A total of 108 Lohmann Brown laying hens (84 weeks old) were assigned to control and treatment groups (10% HIM inclusion) and fed for 4 weeks. Production parameters and egg quality were measured weekly. Eggs were analyzed for cannabinoid residues at the end of the study.

Results: HIM contained 25% crude protein, 11.8% crude fiber, and had a predicted AME of 2,098 kcal/kg, closely matching the in vivo AME of 2,110 kcal/kg. Trace CBD (6.27 mg/kg) was present in HIM, while THC was undetectable; no cannabinoid residues were found in eggs. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in production performance between groups. However, HIM inclusion significantly improved albumen height (7.82 mm vs. 6.76 mm, p = 0.02), Haugh unit (86.73 vs. 80.30, p = 0.03), and reduced yolk-to-albumen ratio (39.02 vs. 40.59, p = 0.04).

Conclusion: The inclusion of 10% HIM in laying hen diets is safe, as evidenced by the absence of cannabinoid residues in eggs and stable production performance. HIM enhanced egg white quality, likely due to its high protein content and bioactive compounds. These findings support HIM as a functional, sustainable feed component in poultry nutrition. Future studies should focus on optimal inclusion levels, amino acid supplementation, and long-term impacts on egg quality and bird health.


Keywords: cannabinoids, egg quality, feed safety, hemp byproducts, poultry nutrition, sustainable feed ingredient.

Background and Aim: Laser acupuncture has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological approach to enhance productivity in livestock. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of laser acupuncture applied to specific back-shu points (Bladder [BL]13, BL15, and BL21) on growth performance, feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency (FE), and growth hormone (GH) levels in rabbits. A total of 24 male Hycole rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 8): Group A (placebo control), Group B (laser acupuncture on BL13, BL15, and BL21), and Group C (laser acupuncture on non-specific points). Treatments were conducted weekly over a 6-week period using a 0.2-joule semiconductor laser device. Body weight, feed intake, FCR, FE, and GH concentrations were recorded. GH levels were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were statistically evaluated using a one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan's post hoc test. Results: Group B showed significantly higher final body weight (1.97 ± 0.07 kg), weight gain (919 ± 128 g), GH levels (1.75 ± 0.12 ng/mL), improved FCR (2.67 ± 0.07), and greater FE (37.45% ± 1.09%) compared to Groups A and C (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between Groups A and C, indicating the importance of targeting precise acupuncture points for therapeutic effectiveness. Laser acupuncture at BL13, BL15, and BL21 significantly enhances metabolic efficiency, growth performance, and hormonal regulation in rabbits. The precision of point application is critical for achieving optimal physiological benefits. This technique provides a sustainable and non-invasive approach to enhancing feed utilization and productivity in rabbit farming and holds promise for broader application in modern animal husbandry.

Background and Aim: Laser acupuncture has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological approach to enhance productivity in livestock. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of laser acupuncture applied to specific back-shu points (Bladder [BL]13, BL15, and BL21) on growth performance, feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency (FE), and growth hormone (GH) levels in rabbits. A total of 24 male Hycole rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 8): Group A (placebo control), Group B (laser acupuncture on BL13, BL15, and BL21), and Group C (laser acupuncture on non-specific points). Treatments were conducted weekly over a 6-week period using a 0.2-joule semiconductor laser device. Body weight, feed intake, FCR, FE, and GH concentrations were recorded. GH levels were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were statistically evaluated using a one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan's post hoc test. Results: Group B showed significantly higher final body weight (1.97 ± 0.07 kg), weight gain (919 ± 128 g), GH levels (1.75 ± 0.12 ng/mL), improved FCR (2.67 ± 0.07), and greater FE (37.45% ± 1.09%) compared to Groups A and C (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between Groups A and C, indicating the importance of targeting precise acupuncture points for therapeutic effectiveness. Laser acupuncture at BL13, BL15, and BL21 significantly enhances metabolic efficiency, growth performance, and hormonal regulation in rabbits. The precision of point application is critical for achieving optimal physiological benefits. This technique provides a sustainable and non-invasive approach to enhancing feed utilization and productivity in rabbit farming and holds promise for broader application in modern animal husbandry.

In Burkina Faso, traditional poultry farming suffers from the inaccessibility of protein inputs. However, fly larvae have a high potential to be used in poultry feed as an alternative protein source. This study aims to evaluate the effect of including fresh fly larvae in rations on the performance of growing local chickens and their economic profitability. Eighty-four local 12-week-old chickens were randomly divided into three treatments of 28 birds. These birds were fed for 18 weeks on three types of diets: a complete diet containing fishmeal (control treatment, T0), a diet without fishmeal (FWF) supplemented with 35 g/day of fresh larvae of housefly (Musca domestica) (Treatment 1, T1) and another one with 25 g/day of fly larvae (Treatment 2, T2). Feed intake, laying performance, egg and carcass characteristics and production costs were determined. Feed intake was significantly higher in Treatment T0 (62.76 g DM/individual/day) than in Treatment T1 (49.05 g DM/individual/day) and T2 (54.95 g DM/individual/day). Chickens fed with fresh maggots provided similar final live weights to the control and significantly higher carcass yields (71.63% and 71.48% for T1 and T2, respectively, versus 68.61% for T0). The mean age at egg-laying and laying index were in favour of the treatments, including fresh larvae, whereas the egg characteristics were similar. The cost per kilogram of fresh larvae was lower than that of locally sold fishmeal, resulting in a better profit margin. These results show that house fly larvae can be used as a substitute for fishmeal in traditional poultry farming. In addition, fresh larvae incorporated at 25 g/individual/day can provide good weight performance and improve the economic profitability of the farm.

A study was conducted to evaluate the reproductive and haematological characteristics of indigenous chickens reared under backyard systems in Kannur and Kozhikode districts of Kerala, India. Data were collected from 64 households using recall-based surveys and direct blood sampling. Key reproductive traits such as age at sexual maturity, clutch size, number of clutches per cycle, egg production per cycle, and length of broodiness were documented. Most hens reached sexual maturity between 22-26 weeks, laid predominantly light brown eggs, and exhibited strong broodiness, with a typical broody phase lasting 15-28 days. Clutch size predominantly ranged between 5-8 eggs, and total egg production per cycle commonly fell within 11-15 eggs. In addition, a total of 32 birds, comprising eight males and eight females from each of the Kannur and Kozhikode districts were subjected to haematological analysis. Significantly higher red blood cell count (P<0.01), haemoglobin concentration (P<0.05), and packed cell volume (P<0.01) were observed in males compared to females. Males also had lower lymphocyte (P<0.001) and higher heterophil (P<0.001) counts than females. These findings provide baseline information on the productivity and physiological status of indigenous chicken of Kannur and Kozhikode districts of Kerala and can support targeted genetic improvement and conservation programs.

In Tanzania, there is a large gap between food production and consumption, which contributes to high rates of undernourishment and micronutrient deficiencies. The dietary problems are mainly due to limited dietary diversity among households. Furthermore, increased urbanisation leads to an increase in demand for poultry products which is difficult to satisfy by domestic production. The objective of the current study was to understand the current maize, soybean and chicken value chain(s) and identify important entry points for value chain integration in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania to support nutritious diets. The focus was on these value chain(s) as integrating soybeans in the maize-chicken value chains might increase the productivity of chickens by providing nutrientdense feed. We carried out an explorative study followed by a multi-stakeholder workshop with 54 stakeholders and experts involved in development of the value chain(s). The current maize, soybean and chicken value ...

A 3 * 3 factorial study was used to evaluate the feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of broilers fed on the test diets. The commercial soybean meal (SBM) was replaced by raw, full-fat soybean meal (RSBM) at 0, 10 or 20%, equivalent to 0, 30 and 60 g/kg of diet, respectively, and the microbial protease was also supplemented in diets at 0.1, 0.2 or 0.3 g/kg, equivalent to ~7500, 15000 and ~22500 PROT/kg of diet, respectively. Microbial phytase (1000 FYT/kg) was uniformly added to each diet, which was fed to six replicate groups, with nine birds per replicate. Samples of test-ingredients and test-diets, after mixing, were also subjected to chemical analysis, prior to being used, to assess the nutritional compositions, particularly anti-nutritional factors. As the result of this study, the analysed concentrations of trypsin inhibitors (TI) in the diets ranging between 1730.5 and 9913.2 TIU/g. Increasing the levels of RSBM in the diets reduced the FI, during 1 to 35 d of age. Except in the starter phase, increasing the level of RSBM had no significant effect on BWG. When protease was added to the diets, the BWG was significantly improved during the periods of 1 -10 d, 1 -24 d and 1 -35 d. Feed efficiency was decreased by increasing the level of RSBM (1-10 d). Neither increasing levels of RSBM nor protease affected the yield of any meat part at d 35. The relative weight of the small intestine at d 10 increased with rising levels of RSBM, but was reduced when protease was added to the diets. In conclusion, commercial SBM could be replaced by RSBM up to 20% in diets for broilers when the test microbial protease is supplemented.

During the period of 2023. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of exposing fertile eggs of the Syrian local hens to random music in artificial hatcheries. Total of (180) eggs were randomly distributed into tow treatment (90) eggs each treatment and were replicated three times with (30) eggs per replication, using the completely randomized design (CRD). The first treatment (T1) was exposed to a random music program for (12) hours, and the second treatment was the control (T0) without music. The results showed that a statistically significant (p<0.05) were observed among the tow treatment, the averages of the hatchability (%) for the music treatment (T1) were (90.87) % and the control (T0) (83.53) %, as for the hatching time (481.6, 490.7) h respectively. And for the live body weights on the 1st and the 7th day were (T1) (37.56, 117.89) g and (T0) (35.76, 105.66) g respectively. Using the music system (12) hours a day have positive role, it contributed to stimulating embryonic growth and increase the hatchability %, and synchronization of the hatching process for the entire batch. Also increased the averages live body weight of the chicks, and improved the quality and performance of newly hatched chicks, as it reduced the chicks' fear stress factor, and improved the birds' adaptation and acclimatization to the new environment after hatching.

the effect of growth promoters used in animal feed on their growing performances is very variable, being more visible the more deficient the growing conditions are. Associating prebiotics with probiotics has generated a new growth promoter class – synbiotics – a category which the Biomin IMBO products belong to. It was tested in the broiler chicken feed regarding the growing performance, the intestinal flora and biochemical blood parameter. The experiment was carried out in two broiler chicken experimental lots, Rosso 503 hybrids, with 10 chicken per lot, between the ages of one day and 28 days. The combined chicken feed from the experimental lot was supplemented with 0.15 % Biomin IMBO. The growth parameters (body mass, daily average growth rate, daily average usage and specific usage) were monitored. A faeces microbiological exam was carried out in order to determine the type of intestinal flora and a biochemical exam, to determine the serum cholesterol and the high density lipopr...

Background: Self-medication puts the benefits of antibiotics at risk. This has resulted in underdeveloped countries facing an increased economic burden, treatment failures, growth of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, and a higher population risk of exposure to and infection by such pathogens. The aim of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antimicrobial use and resistance among a group of final-year pharmacy students and medical students at universities in Baghdad, Iraq. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional and institution-based study conducted between September and November 2023. Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic use were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire.. In addition, the students were assessed on how they felt that their medical education had prepared them to become pharmacists and physicians after graduation. Results: The total number of students was 642 (328 medicine and 314 pharmacy). The survey shows that although 94.7% of the students had good knowledge, only 65.4% of them actually practiced it. There was a significant (p , 0.05) difference in the total attitude score according to the gender of the participant. In other words, female participants had significantly higher positive attitudes than male participants. There was a significant (p , 0.05) difference in the total attitude, behavior, and practice scores according to the college type of the participants. In other words, pharmacy students had significantly higher total attitude, behavior, and practice scores than medical students. Conclusion: The students' level of knowledge was more than sufficient, but they need more education to improve their practice. Significant work still needs to be done to focus on improvements.

AflatoxinM1 (AFM1) has been the major mycotoxin frequently found in milk and dairy products. These products are widely consumed by infants and children who are more susceptible to adverse effects of mycotoxins, considering its significant impact on human health. Determination of AFM1 levels in dairy products becomes imperative, so the present study was undertaken to investigate the levels of AFM1 in some milk products consumed widely by infants and children and marketed in Sharkia Governorate markets. For this purpose total of 80 milk product samples were randomly collected. Aflatoxin M1 was detected in 23 (28.75%) out of the 80 samples analyzed in which the levels of AFM1 of the samples were found to exceed the limits (0 ng/kg) allowed by Egyptian regulation. Results of yoghurt examination showed that 3 (12%) of the local processed type contain AFM1 and exceeding Egyptian permissible limits, with a mean value 0.803 ± 0.1322 ng/kg, while processed cheese results also exceeded Egypti...

AflatoxinM1 (AFM1) has been the major mycotoxin frequently found in milk and dairy products. These products are widely consumed by infants and children who are more susceptible to adverse effects of mycotoxins, considering its significant impact on human health. Determination of AFM1 levels in dairy products becomes imperative, so the present study was undertaken to investigate the levels of AFM1 in some milk products consumed widely by infants and children and marketed in Sharkia Governorate markets. For this purpose total of 80 milk product samples were randomly collected. Aflatoxin M1 was detected in 23 (28.75%) out of the 80 samples analyzed in which the levels of AFM1 of the samples were found to exceed the limits (0 ng/kg) allowed by Egyptian regulation. Results of yoghurt examination showed that 3 (12%) of the local processed type contain AFM1 and exceeding Egyptian permissible limits, with a mean value 0.803 ± 0.1322 ng/kg, while processed cheese results also exceeded Egyptian permissible limits in 11 (44%) of examined samples and ranged from 23.2 to 47.1 ng/kg. Of the analyzed Infant formula milk powder samples, 2 (13.3%) samples were contaminated by AFM1. 7 (46.67%) of the UHT milk samples exceeded the permissible limit where the highest recorded level was 33.4 ng/kg. The results of this study indicate that continuous monitoring of AFM1 levels in commonly marketed milk products in Sharkia markets should be regularly done.

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of dietary flaxseed on the endocrine and ovarian functions of weanling gilts challenged with E. coli and Coronavirus infections treated with dietary probiotic cheeses and to understand the possible mechanisms of its effects on ovarian function. Probiotics were used as a natural substitution for antibiotics and 10% dietary flaxseed is an effective prebiotic which supports the action of probiotics and has other beneficial effects on the organism. Probiotics with or without flaxseed were fed to weanling gilts starting 10 days before and lasting up until 14 days after weaning. The ovaries were measured and histologically analysed. The blood samples for the levels of steroid hormones and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) were assessed using immunoassays and the levels of fatty acids were assessed using gas chromatography. All samples were collected on the day of weaning and 14 days after weaning. On the day of weaning, increased levels of linoleic acid and IGF-I was associated with higher body weight. The steroid hormones were not affected by the diet. The conversion of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) to timodonic (EPA) and cervonic (DHA) acids were lower compared to controls, and together with high levels of myristic, palmitic and palmitoleic acids was associated with the higher proliferation and lower apoptosis in the primordial, primary and secondary follicles; although the inhibition of the cell cycle was observed in relation to the low level of eicosadienoic acid. The high levels of ALA, EPA and DHA and the low levels of myristic, palmitic and palmitoleic acids may have been the effect of flaxseed feeding 14 days post-weaning and may have had a reverse effect on the proliferation and apoptosis of ovarian follicles. These data suggest that flaxseed may suppress the follicle development in weanlings via the stimulation of apoptosis and the inhibition of proliferation via the modulation of the metabolism of selected fatty acids. In the life of piglets, weaning is a highly sensitive period related to the stressful withdrawal from the mother´s milk, which results

The housing environment has become a critical issue for consumers of eggs and egg products. Therefore, it is imperative to understand how various housing environments can affect the modern laying hen. In this study, alongside the 40th NC layer performance test, four different housing environments were chosen based on industry prevalence, which include conventional cages, barren, enrichable colony cages, enriched colony cages, and cage-free environments. Hens in these environments were raised following standard feeding and lighting practices. This study found that conventional cage and enriched colony cage hens had the highest egg production level, while hens from the barren colony cages had the lowest production level. Feed efficiency followed a similar trend, where conventional cage and cage-free hens had the best feed efficiency, followed by enriched colony cage and barren colony cage hens. This study also found that conventional cage hens had the largest eggs, while cage-free hen...