Effect of Feeding Rejected Dried Green Banana on the Performance of Broiler Finisher Chicks

Abstract

A total of 120 twenty one days old unsexed broiler finisher chicks (Arbor acres) were used in this experiment to study the effect of feeding rejected dried green banana on the performance of broiler chickens during the finishing period.Four experimental iso-caloric iso-nitrogenous diets were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements for broiler finisher recommended by NRC (1994).Diet one which does not contained rejected dried green banana serve as control diet (0.0), in the other three diets graded levels of rejected dried green banana (10%, 15% and 20%) were incorporated. Chicks were randomly distributed into four treatment groups of 30 chicks each in a completely randomized design. Each group was further subdivided into 3 replicates of 10 birds each. Feed and water were supplied for adlibtum consumption, light was provided for 24hs throughout the experimental period. The experiment was extended for three weeks. The performance data (Feed intake , Body weight ,Weight gain and Feed conversion ratio) were calculated on weekly basis, at the end of the IV experiment 2birds from each replicate were selected ( one male and one female) then slaughtered and eviscerated dressing percent was calculated. Some internal organs (liver, gizzard, hearts, spleen and abdominal fat weights) were recorded. Statistical package for social science (SPSS) was used to analyze the data obtained. The results showed a significant (P< 0.05) reduction in the final body weight and dressing percent with increased feed conversion ratio and gizzard weight. On the other hand, feeding rejected dried green banana had no significant effect on feed intake, weight gain, internal organs (liver, spleen, heart) and abdominal fat weight. It could be concluded that feeding rejected dried green banana up to 20% has adverse affect on body weight, FCR and dressing percent, so it is recommended that rejected dried green banana can be incorporated in broiler finisher diets up to 15% without deleterious effect.