Effects of fermented dried Japanese snail (Achatina fulica) as a feed supplement on growth performance and carcass yield of broilers (Gallus domesticus
Paper Details
Effects of fermented dried Japanese snail (Achatina fulica) as a feed supplement on growth performance and carcass yield of broilers (Gallus domesticus
Abstract
The rising interest in using alternative livestock feed sources is mostly driven by the rising cost of commercial feed and the desire for agricultural sustainability. This study was conducted to determine the growth performance and carcass yield of broilers fed a commercial diet supplemented with different levels of fermented dried Japanese Snail (Achatina fulica) meal. The study utilized sixty (60) broiler chickens, randomly distributed into four (4) treatments, on a Randomized Complete Block Design. The experimental treatments were: T0 (Control) 100% pure commercial feeds, T1 (4% FJSM + 96% commercial feeds), T2 (8% FJSM + 92% commercial feeds), and T3 (12% FJSM + 88% commercial feeds). Growth performance was evaluated based on average final weight, average body weight, and average feed intake, whereas feed utilization was measured using feed conversion ratio and feed conversion efficiency. Dressing percentage was also determined as an indicator of carcass yield. All data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using the Statistical Tool for Agricultural Research (STAR) to determine significant differences among treatments. Results showed significant differences among treatments for all measured parameters. Broilers receiving 8% fermented Japanese snail meal (FJSM) + 92% commercial feeds (T2) exhibited the best average final weight, body weight gain, and highest feed intake, alongside superior feed conversion ratio and efficiency. The highest dressing percentage was recorded in birds supplemented with fermented Japanese snail meal (T3). Supplementation of fermented Japanese snail meal positively impacts broiler growth and carcass yield, with 8% supplementation being optimal for growth parameters and 12% for dressing percentage.
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