The utilization of alkali-treated melon husk by broilers.
The effects of alkali treatment on chemical constituents of melon husk (MH) and performance characteristics of broilers fed alkali-treated MH (ATMH) diets were investigated. The chemical analysis showed that alkali treatment increased the ash content of MH (from 15.70% to 16.86%) and reduced the crude fibre content (from 29.00% to 14.00%). Result of feed intake was superior on 30% alkali diet with a value of 100.14 g/bird/day. Body weight gain decreased with increase in the level of ATMH in the diet. Highest dressing percentage of 66.33% and best meat/bone ratio of 2.57 were obtained on 10% and 20% alkali diets, respectively. Dietary treatments had significant effect (P < 0.05) on gizzard weight. Up to 20% of maize can be replaced with ATMH in broiler diets to produce good quality poultry carcases and chicken meat with favourable shelf life.
Department of Animal Production and Health, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
S S
SS
Abiola
A C
AC
Amalime
K C
KC
Akadiri
D000468:Alkalies / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000821:Animal Feed; D000818:Animals; D002645:Chickens / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000378:metabolism; D028462:Cucumis / Q000737:chemistry*; D004043:Dietary Fiber / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002149:Energy Intake; D004734:Energy Metabolism; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
D000468:Alkalies; D004043:Dietary Fiber