Title:
EFFECTS OF L-ARGININE ON FEED INTAKE, WATER CONSUMPTION, AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF SASSO, SHIKA BROWN, AND KUROILER PULLET STRAINS

Authors:
Ayoola J. Shoyombo, Victoria O. Olaoye, Gospel E. Onyeabor, Mustapha A. Popoola, Olayinka O. Alabi, Ekemini M. Okon, Ahmed E. Jubril, Comfort I. Ukim, Umar D. Bunjah

Abstract:
The poultry industry plays a significant role in meeting the food needs of the ever-increasing global human population. In Nigeria, poultry production has contributed to the social and economic advancement of farmers in many areas. However, the sector in Nigeria is faced with various challenges such as poor health and inadequate nutrition which affects growth. This study, therefore, investigates the effects of L-Arginine on feed consumption, water consumption, and growth performance of 3- pullet strains. A total of 297 12-week-old pullets comprising of 99 each for Sasso, Shika Brown, and Kuroiler strains were used in a 3 x 3 factorial trial design. Three levels of L-Arginine oral inclusion (0.00mg, 500mg, and 1000 mg/3000ml of water) were used for each treatment. All measured traits were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by LArginine administration except for the Total Quantity of Active ingredient Consumed (TQAC) and Average Quantity of Active ingredient Consumed per bird (AQAC) that showed highly significant (p<0.0001) variations in a linear manner. All other traits were nominally higher with increasing levels of L-Arginine supplementation, except for feed intake. L-Arginine supplementation toleration and utilization were higher among the heavier strains (Kuroiler and Sasso) than the lighter strain (Shika brown).