Linear Programming application to utilization of Duckweed (Lemna paucicostata) in least-cost ration formulation for broiler finisher

Abstract

This study was on the application of linear programming to the utilization of locally available and non-conventional feedstuff - Duckweed (Lemna paucicostata) as dietary component of feed for broilers aged from 6 to 10 weeks old. Linear Programming (LP) technique was used to investigate, analyse and determine the most efficient way of compounding the least-cost ration. Mathematical models were constructed, taking into consideration nutrient composition of each of the available ingredient, raw material specifications, costs and nutrient requirements of the broiler finisher's mash. Simplex algorithm was used in solving the resulting linear programming models. The LP model gave least cost feed formulation containing duckweed as optimum at iteration 15 while the optimum for the control was at iteration 19. The result shows that utilization of diet containing 29.50% of duckweed is cost-effective by reducing the cost of the feed by 20.82% and this will invariably improve profitability in broiler production. © 2006 Asian Network for Scientific Information.