Efficacy of spirulina on production indices of advanced age layer chicken

Abstract

Abstract The present study was designed to evaluate the productive performance and hematological parameter of advanced age laying hens fed with spirulina supplemented diets and water. The experiment was conducted on 30 commercial laying hens of 60-65 weeks of age. The birds were randomly divided into 3 equal groups designated as Group A, B and C. After one week of adaptation period, along with the commercial layer diet twice daily and adlibitum drinking water the group B and C were supplemented with spirulina at a level of 4 and 2 g per Kg of feed and water, respectively. There was no spirulina supplemented in group A and was considered as control. The feed and water intake, egg production, egg weight and hematological parameters (TEC, PCV and Hb) were recorded during the experimental period of 30 days. The average feed intake was significantly (p<0.05) decreased in group B and C as compared to control. Conversely, average egg production and body weight were significantly increased (p<0.05) in spirulina supplemented groups. However, a steady increase pattern in egg production was observed when spirulina supplemented at a level of 2 g/Kg of feed and water. This result suggests the higher egg production and body weight gain with less feed consumption which was further reflected in calculated Feed Conversion Ratio. Hematological parameters of Group B and C were found significantly (p<0.05) higher than control group. Water consumption and egg weight did not differ significantly among the experimental groups. Conclusively, it could be recommended to supplement layer diets with spirulina at a level of 2 to 4 g/kg of feed and water for better productivity as well as improved hematological responses during the advanced laying period when the production goes decline normally.