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.
Abiola
S S
SS
Department of Animal Production and Health, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Amalime
A C
AC
Akadiri
K C
KC
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