GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF RABBITS ADMINISTERED GMELINA ARBOREA LEAF EXTRACT

Abstract

An 8-week study was carried out using a total of 36 rabbits; 24 females and 12 males, to evaluate the growth performance of rabbits administered Gmelina arborea leaf extract (GALE). The rabbits were randomly assigned to 4 treatment groups in 2x4 factorial arrangements in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment for the rabbit bucks was replicated three times with each treatment containing 3 rabbit bucks and to each replicate, one buck was assigned each. The treatment for the female rabbits contained 6 does, replicated three times with 2 does per replicate. GALE was prepared following standard protocol. The extract was given to the rabbits at concentrations of 0, 300, 600 and 900ml for every one liter of drinking water measured representing T1, T2, T3 and T4 groups respectively. Results showed high significant (P<0.01) differences on the effects of sex on final body weight , total feed intake, average daily feed intake, total weight gain, average daily weight gain, average daily water intake, total water intake and feed conversion ratio of rabbits. There were no significant (P>0.05) variation among the treatment groups, and the interaction between sex and GALE on growth parameters measured except for average water intake and total water intake. It was concluded that GALE improved growth of rabbits.