RESPONSES OF BROILER FINISHERS TO DIETARY METHIONINE AND OR LYSINE SUPPLEMENTATION

Abstract

characteristics and economics of production of broiler chicken. 600 Anak broiler
chicks were brooded and fed broiler starter feed (23% CP & lZ.lOMJ/Kg ME) ad
libitum for the first 4 weeks of life. Thereafter, 280 chicks were randomly selected
and allocated into the treatment diets in duplicate lots of 20 chic'ks each. They
were also fed and given water ad libitum. The experiment lasted for 6 weeks. Feed
intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were significantly (P<0.05) influenced.
Diets supplemented with 0.1% methionine (D4) and 0.1% lysine (D5) supported
BW, BWG and improve$ FCR more than other diets. Diet 4 also gave the best
cost benefit ratio, thus making it the best among the 7 treatment diets. Carcass
quality characteristics showed no definite pattern though, the dressed weight and
% drumstick were significantly (P<O.Q5) influenced. Data from this study indicated
that supplementing broiler finisher diet with 0.1% methionine would bring about
efficient productivity at the least cost to the producer.