Evaluation of graded levels of cassava peels fortified with defatted moringa seed meal as replacement to wheat bran on performance, digestibility and blood profile of broilers

Abstract

Evaluation of cassava peels fortified with defatted moringa seed at ratio 5:2 (C:MM) as a replacement to wheat bran at graded levels in broiler diet. Three diets were formulated, diet I with 0% C:MM and 20% wheat bran served as control, in diets II and III wheat bran was replaced at 50% and 100% respectively. Ninety 1 - day old broiler chicks were assigned unto these diets that lasted for nine weeks. The feed intake and body weight gain of birds on diet I and II were higher (P < 0.05) than III at both starter and finisher phases. Feed conversion ratio and apparent digestibility of those fed diets I and II were similar and differ from III. Among the hematological parameters determined, the packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin (Hb), Red blood cell (RBC) and lymphocytes were affected (P < 0.05). Birds fed diets I and II had similar hematological values and these were higher compared to those fed diet III. The serum metabolites values of all the chicks were within normal range. Conclusively, fortified C:MM could replace wheat bran up to 50% without adversely affecting the broilers.

Keywords: Moringa seed meal, cassava peels, wheat bran; broiler; performance; blood.