Effect of pawpaw leaf and seed meal composite mix dietary supplementation on haematological indices, carcass traits and histological studies of broiler chicken

Abstract

Background The use of phytogenic feed supplement is now being considered in broiler production for enhancing their performance and health status. In this 42-day feeding trial, the effects of a diet supplemented with pawpaw leaf and seed meal composite mix (PCM) on hematological indices, carcass, internal organs weights, and histology of the liver and testis of broiler chickens was assessed. Methods Total number of 396 1-day-old Arbor Acres broiler chicks were distributed to six dietary treatments: (diet 1; 0.0% PCM), (0.2% PCM), (0.4% PCM), (0.6% PCM), (0.8% PCM), (1.0% PCM). The relative internal organ weights and hematological indices were determined. The liver and testistical samples were taken for histopathological examination. Results White blood cell (WBC) counts of birds fed PCM supplemented diets were similar/comparable to that of the birds fed the control diet; however, the highest (P < 0.05) counts were recorded in birds fed diets 2 and 6. The hemoglobin concentration (Hbc) and packed cell volume (PCV) of birds fed PCM supplemented diets were similar (P > 0.05) to those fed the control diet, except for those fed diet 6 had significantly (P < 0.05) lower Hbc and PCV. The carcass and relative internal organ weight of the broiler chickens were not affected (P > 0.05) by the PCM supplementation. The dietary PCM supplementation produced a marked proliferation of polymorphonuclear and mononuclear cells, activation of liver macrophages system, the Kupffer cells in the liver of the birds. There were also reduced spermatogenic activities in seminiferous tubules, congestion of seminiferous tubules, tunica albuginea, and medial hypertrophy of the blood vessels in birds fed the 0.4 to 1.0% PCM supplemented diets. Conclusion Dietary PCM supplementation supports normal hemapoietic processes and normal carcass and internal organ development. However, dietary PCM supplementation produced some pathological changes in the liver and testis of the birds.