Browsing by Author "ENITAN, ADEBAYO OLUWATOMIWA"

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    EFFECT OF SPOTTED PUMPKIN (Lagenaria breviflora) FRUIT AQUEOUS EXTRACT ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, BEHAVIOUR, BLOOD PROFILE AND CARCASS YIELD OF BROILER CHICKENS
    (2025-06-12) ENITAN, ADEBAYO OLUWATOMIWA
    ABSTRACT Growing concerns over the health risks and microbial resistance linked to synthetic growth promoters have increased the demand for natural, residue-free alternatives in poultry production. This study investigated the effects of Lagenaria breviflora (spotted pumpkin) fruit aqueous extract on growth performance, behaviour, haematological parameters, serum biochemistry, and carcass yield of broiler chickens. A total of 240 day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly allocated to six treatment groups (with four replicates of 10 birds each) in a 2 × 3 factorial experimental layout, comprising two concentrations of the extract (300 and 500 g/L) and three administration frequencies (0, 3, and 4 times/week). Birds were given standard commercial diets and administered the extract via drinking water from day 7 to the end of the six-week trial. Growth performance was evaluated through weight gain, feed and water intake, and FCR. Behaviour was monitored using CCTV, while haematological, serum biochemical, and carcass traits were assessed using standard laboratory and post-slaughter procedures. Results showed that while the extract concentration had no significant effect on body weight gain and FCR, birds on 300 g/L concentration exhibited higher feed and water intake compared to those on 500 g/L. Frequency of administration significantly (p < 0.05) influenced growth, with the control group (0 time/week) demonstrating the highest final weight and weight gain. Behavioural observations at the starter phase showed no notable variations across treatments. However, at the finisher phase, birds on 300 g/L concentration displayed increased activity in feeding, drinking, walking, dust bathing, and wing flapping compared to those on 500 g/L. Frequency of administration also affected behavioural expressions, with birds in the control and 3 times/week groups generally more active than those administered the extract 4 times/week. Haematological parameters were largely unaffected by both extract concentration and administration frequency, suggesting no adverse health impacts. Serum biochemical analysis indicated significant (p < 0.05) effects of both concentration and frequency on total protein, albumin, AST, HDL, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Notably, birds administered 500 g/L of the extract exhibited higher serum protein and albumin levels, and reduced MDA concentrations, indicating enhanced antioxidant status. Carcass evaluation showed no marked differences across treatments, with both concentration and frequency of administration having no observable effect on carcass traits.In conclusion, Lagenaria breviflora fruit aqueous extract may improve certain behavioural and physiological traits in broilers without adverse effects on health or carcass yield. A concentration of 300 g/L administered 3 times per week is recommended for promoting activity and performance, while 500 g/L at 4 times per week may be explored for improving serum lipid profile.