EFFECT OF BAOBAB SEED MEAL AS A REPLACEMENT FOR SYNTHETIC METHIONINE AND LYSINE ON HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF BROILER FINISHERCHICKENS

Abstract

The effects of feeding baobab seed meal (BSM) as a replacement for synthetic methionine and lysine (SML) on haematological parameters of broiler chickens was carryout in a 28-day feeding trial. A total of (180) day old chicks (Cobb 500) were randomly allotted into a complete randomized design (CRD) and replicated 3 times with 12 birds each. The diets were formulated to be isocaloric (3000kcal/kg) and isonitrogenous (19% crude protein) with BSM included at 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% replacing SML. Birds were reared in a deep liter system and fed with known quantity of experimental diets and supplied water at all times. Standard routine management practices were strictly observed. The result showed that birds fed 100%BSM had higher HB g/dl (11.40g/dl) and PCV (34%) than birds fed control diet and other treatment diets. Birds fed 25%BSM had higher WBC (15.20x109 ) and RBC (5.50x106 ) compared to birds in control group and other treatment. Birds fed 75%BSM had increased MCV (94.00fl) and MCH (30.20fl) compared to those fed the control diet and others. However, mean cell haemoglobin concentration had no significant effect across the treatment when baobab seed meal was added to the diets. These values were within the normal reference range for birds. It is concluded that 100% of baobab seed meal should be included as source of methionine and lysine for optimum performance of broiler chickens