Replacement Value of Feather Meal for Fish Meal on Performance of Finisher Broiler Chicks

A 28-day feeding trial was conducted at the Imo State University Teaching and Research Farm, Owerri, Nigeria, to assess the replacement value of feather meal (FEM) for fishmeal (FM) in finisher broiler chicks production. Two hundred and twenty five (225) birds were grouped into 5 dietary treatments of 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10% FEM and were thrice replicated in a completely randomized design in a deep liter house. The feeding and water supply were maintained ad libitum. Regular cleaning, disinfections, medication and vaccination were carried out according to the program followed in the Teaching and Research Farm. Data were collected on initial weights, final weight, weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and feed cost per kg weight. Results showed that final live weights 2740, 2400, 2330, 2080 and 1930 g of treatments 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10% FEM significantly (p<0.05) varied. Birds on 0% FEM were significantly heavier (p<0.05) than those in 2.5 and 5% FEM, which were also significantly heavier than those on 7.5 and 10% FEM. Weight gain followed the same trend. Feed conversion was most efficient in birds placed on the control diet (0% FEM). Feed intake was significantly (p<0.05) less in birds on control experiment. Considering weight gain, final weight and cost of feed per kg weight gain, 5% inclusion of FEM appeared optimal and had the potential of reducing cost of poultry production and make the products affordable to consumers. Keywords: Feather meal, fishmeal, replacement value, finisher broiler chick