Journal of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences
(ISSN: 2659 – 0743)
Volume 6, No. 2, 2024
Pages 1-10
DOI: 10.36108/jvbs/4202.60.0210
Effect of Breed Differences on Growth Performance, Haematology and Serum Biochemical Indices of Indigenous and Commercial Broiler Chi.ckens
Garba H., Egena S.S.A., Otu B.O., and Sikiru A.B.
Department of Animal Production, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 65, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
This study aimed to compare the feed intake, growth performance, and carcass characteristics of Fulani ecotype chickens, Noilers, a nd(Cobb- 500) and improve poultry production efficiency in Nigeria. The research was conducted using -300-dayold unsexed chicks from the three breeds, which were fed a sin-gle phase diet containing 21% crude protein and 2900 Kcal/kg ME for 22 weeks. The results indicated significant differences (p<0.05) in daily feed intake among the species, with broilers consuming the most feed, followed by Noilers, and then Fulani ecotype chickens. Carcass analysis also revealed that broilers had the highest weights and meat yield, while Noilers exhibited intermediate values, and Fulani ecotype chickens had the lowest. These findings suggest that while broilers are best suited for commercial meat production, Noilers offer a balanced option for d-ual purpose production, and Fulani ecotype chickens are better adapted to low-input systems. In conclusion, understanding the distinct characteristics of these breeds is essential for developing tailored feeding practices that can enhance productivity, reduce waste, and support sustainable poultry farming in Nigeria.
Keywords: Poultry; Feed; Growth performance; Carca;s sIndigenous, chicken