EFFECT OF SANDPAPER (Ficus exasperata) LEAF MEAL ON GUT MORPHOLOGY AND NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF FINISHER BROILERS

Abstract

The trial evaluates effect of sandpaper leaf meal on gut morphology and nutrient digestibility of finisher broiler chicks. Ficus exasperata leaf meal was included in the diets of the birds at 0% (control), 1%, 2% and 3% of 100kg feed in treatment 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. A total of ninety-six (96) day old broiler chicks was used for this trial. The birds were randomly divided into four (4) treatments of three (3) replicates and each replicate contained eight (8) birds. Results; all parameters evaluated were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the inclusion levels of sandpaper leaf. Improved crude protein digestibility recorded in this study would have resulted from improved accessibility to the entrap proteins in the diet which could have been aided by gut microflora. Highest (P<0.05) villus height value of 368.57µm was recorded from 3% (T4) while least value of 353.43µm was recorded from 0% (T1). Villi muscle thickness decreased with increase in sandpaper leaf meal levels. Reduced crypt depth recorded from birds that received antibiotics inclusion is indicative of lower secretory activity such as lower mucus production. Reduction in ileum muscle thickness with increase in dosage level indicated that absorption of nutrients may be impeded by an increase in the thickness of the unstirred layer in the small intestine. Thus, reduced muscle thickness observed from the birds that received inclusion levels of sandpaper leaf meal allows for better nutrient permeability into the blood stream.