Influence of Moringa oleifera Decorticated Seed Meal on Broiler Performance and Immunity.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the performance of broilers by providing different dietary levels of Moringa oleifera seed meal (MOSM). A total of 300 a-day-old Hubbard broiler chicks were maintained in 5 different treatment groups (control, 10, 15, 20 and 25%) with 3 replicates of 20 birds each. Feed and water offered ad-libitum throughout 42 days. Data on weekly basis were recorded for feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, mortality and immune response. For statistical analysis ANOVA in Completely Randomized Design was used and means were compared using Duncan's Multiple Range test. Significant (P<0.05) differences were observed in feed intake, body weight, FCR and immune response of the broilers. Birds from control group exhibited significantly (P<0.05) better FCR by gaining more weight and consuming less feed and showed lower mortality percentage with better antibody titer against Newcastle Disease. A negative correlation between the higher levels of MOSM and performance of broilers was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]