Optimizing broiler production: A comprehensive study on the economic and biological effects of mahogany (Swieteniamacrophylla) and chalta (Dilleniaindica L.) leaf supplementation

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess the dietary effects of dried Mahogany and Chalta leaves supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, biochemical parameter and oxidative stability of meat in broiler. The study was conducted by a total of 96 unsexed Ross 308 day old chicks were distributed intofour dietary treatment groups: T1 = control (basal diet), T2 = (basal diet + 0.4% dried Mahogany leaves), T3 = (basal diet + 0.4% dried Chalta leaves) and T4 = (basal diet + 0.2% dried Mahogany and 0.2% dried Chalta mixed leaves). Each treatment also randomly sub-grouped into three replications having 8 birds in each in a completely randomized design. The results revealed that overall average daily gain (ADG) (P<0.05) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) (P<0.01) increased significantly in all treatment groups compared to the control. The overall FCR was decreased (P<0.05) significanlty in all treatment groups than control group. An increased HDL (P<0.05) level was observed while LDL, triglyceride and blood cholesterol level remain unchanged in treatment groups than the control. A significant higher CP content in T₃, EE content in T₄ while total ash content did not differ significantly (P>0.05). Carcass parameters including dressed weight and drumstick weight increased but heart weight decreased in treatments group compared to control group (P<0.05). Oxidative rancidity reduced (P<0.05) in all treatment groups.
Better net profit was recorded in Mahogany and Chalta mixed leaves supplemented group than control. Finally, dried Mahogany and Chalta leaves increased ADG, serum HDL level, net profit and decreased FCR, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) of meat. Hence, dried Mahogany and Chalta leaves meal showed beneficial effects on broiler and can be used as a potential feed source in broiler.