Haematological indices of broiler chickens fed fortified-fermented yam peel as replacement for energy source

Background: Livestock represents an important source of high-quality animal proteins. An inadequate supply of feeds and forages for optimum production is the major constraint to global livestock production. To avert the imminent protein malnutrition, the problem of animal protein scarcity must be addressed. In the present study, a five weeks’ study was conducted using 75 unsexed Anak broilers to determine the effect of fermented yam peels meal (FYPM) as a partial replacement for maize on the performance and haematological indices of finishing broilers. Methods: Seventy-five grower broiler chickens were randomly allotted to five (5) groups (T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5). T1 is the control. The birds were fed diets containing 0, 10, 15, 20, and 25% fermented yam peel meal as a replacement for energy source (Maize). Each group was replicated three times with 5 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). Feed and water were provided ad libitum for the period of five weeks. Results: Results showed that significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) exist among the treatment with respect to body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio. Mortality was recorded over the period of the trial, particularly in the group with a higher inclusion level. The experimental diets had a significant (p ≤ 0.05) effect on haematological indices such as Red blood cell (RBC), packed cell volume (PVC), haemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular Concentration (MCHC), white blood cell (WBC), and its differentials. There was also a significant increase (p≤0.05) in the platelet counts (PLC) with the corresponding increase in the fermented yam peel. Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that 20% fermented yam peel meal can replace maize in the diet of finishing broilers with better performance