Haematological and serum biochemistry response of finisher broiler fed graded levels of sweet potato (Ipomoea batata) meal as replacement for yellow maize

The study was conducted to find out the haematological and biochemistry response of broiler finisher birds fed different levels of sweet potato meal (SPM). The levels of sweet potato meal in the different treatment diets were ۰, ۲۵, ۵۰, ۷۵%, respectively. The increase in PCV, HGB, and RBC contents of the blood of birds fed the experimental diets indicated an improved oxygen carrying capacity of the cells, which translated to a better availability of nutrients to the birds consequently affecting their well-being. SPM caused reduction in the levels of serum cholesterol, a very positive observation especially now that people are very conscious of reducing cholesterol content of animal protein and some people rejecting red meat. All haematological parameters assessed only reveal minor statistical (P>۰.۰۵) differences, falling within the ranges stated in literature for broiler birds. It is concluded that sweet potato root meal can replace maize meal in the diet of broilers which may be compensated by the lower cost of the sweet potato meal. The substitution also did not have any deleterious effect on haematological and serum biochemistry and by extension, the health status of the birds.

کلیدواژه ها:

Sweet potato meal ، Broilers ، Haematological ، Serum biochemistry