Egg quality parameters and blood biochemical profile of six strains of poultry under extensive management system in Nigerian savanna

Abstract

Six different poultry strains (Indigenous chicken, Broiler, Turkey, Geese, Duck and Guinea fowl) were studied under extensive system of management to investigate the effect of rearing system on their egg quality and the blood biochemical profile, respectively. Birds used for the study were obtained from four different locations (Zangon Shanu, Bomo, Samaru and Kurmin Bomo) in Sabon Gari Local Government Area. Eighteen (18) birds were randomly selected from the flock with three birds (3) per strain as replicates. Three eggs were collected daily per replicate for the determination of external and internal egg quality parameters. Blood samples (2ml) were collected from the same birds at the end of the laying phase for the determination of blood biochemical profile, haematological parameters and cholesterol levels. Data collected was analyzed using the General Linear Model of the SAS (2002) Software. Significant means were separated using the Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Results obtained from the study showed that the geese had significant (P<0.05) better external and internal egg parameters for most of the parameters, while indigenous chicken and broiler had the least results for external and internal egg parameters, respectively. The results of haematological parameters showed that all the parameters measured were significantly (P<0.05) different amongst the strains. However, the monocytes, eosinophiles and bands were not significantly (P>0.05) different from each other. Hence, it was concluded that management system had effect on egg quality parameters and blood biochemical profile in poultry strains raised under extensive management system in Nigeria.

Keywords: Chicken, egg, indigenous, management, Nigeria, strain.