Effect of Substitution of Bovine Rumen Epithelial Tissue Scrapings for Fishmeal on the Growth Performance, Nutrient Utilization and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chickens

Abstract. An eight-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the performance, nutrient utilization and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens fed varied levels of bovine rumen epithelial tissue scrapings (BRETS) in replacement for fish meal at 0, 50 and 100 % levels of substitution. Fifty four birds were used for the study and the birds were randomly distributed into three (3) dietary treatments which were randomly assigned to the rations. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum and data were collected on the feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and nutrient utilization. Data were also collected on the carcass characteristics after some birds had been slaughtered at the end of the experiment. Data collected were subjected to one-way analysis of variance and significant differences were indicated using Duncan multiple range test to separate the means. Results indicated that there was significant difference (P<0.05) in the feed intake, feed conversion ratio, nutrient utilization and cut-up parts, except for the lung and heart. However, there was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the weight gain, heart and lung weights. It was concluded that up to 50 % BRETS inclusion as substitute for fish meal protein could be employed without any adverse effect, to maintain the quality of the broiler chicken while minimizing the high cost of whole fishmeal since BRETS is an abattoir by-product that is readily available locally