Growth Performance and Toxicological Implications of Mixed Fungal Fermented Maize Cob Feed in Experimental Rats

Abstract

Mixed fungal fermentation was carried out to upgrade the nutritive value of the maize cobs for use as inclusion in developing a balanced feed for animal production. Grounded maize cobs were alkaline pretreated, and fermented with mixed and single lignocellulolytic fungi of Lachnocladium flavidum and Aspergillus niger. A feeding experiment assessed the growth performance and toxicological implications of graded levels (10%, 30%, and 50%) of fungal fermented maize cobs following their inclusion in the diet. Feed substituted with 10% L. flavidum. was found to have the most positive effect on animal weight and the growth rate, while for the feed consumption and the efficiency of feed conversion, statistical difference was not observed among the various substituted feeds. Toxicity studies reveal absolute and relative organ weights were stable with slight differences among substituted fermented-fed groups relative to the control. Liver and kidney weight appeared normal in various fermented substituted groups. Most markers of liver function analyzed appeared normal, glucose levels however increased significantly (P<0.05) in most of the fermented-fed groups. Serum electrolytes as markers of kidney function also showed a stable condition while urea and creatine levels increased significantly (P<0.05) but within the normal range. Hematological parameters did not show compromised values as all appeared within acceptable ranges. This research has shown that 10% L. flavidum and A. niger fermented maize cobs have been demonstrated to be efficacious and safe as a substitute for inclusion in animal feed production.