Abstract

This research was done to determine how supplementing with basak (Adhatoda vasica) leaf extract affected Sonali chickens growth performance and carcass qualities. 180 chickens were divided into four dietary experimentation groups at random, each taking up three replications. Dietary groups included control (T₀), basak at 2 ml/L of water (T₁), basak at 4 ml/L of water (T₂), and basak at 6 ml/L of water (T₃), respectively. A total of 63 days into the experiment, two birds from each replication were randomly chosen and slaughtered to measure the carcass characteristics. The collected data were analyzed using ANOVA with SPSS version 25. Weekly live weight and feed consumption data were also gathered throughout the trial. Across the experimental groups, there was no discernible difference in initial body weight (P>0.05). The greatest value was recorded at T₂ (908.10±3.03g) in comparison to the other three experimental groups, and the final live weight was substantially different among the experimental groups (P>0.05). The difference in total body weight gain across the experimental groups was statistically significant (P>0.05), with the T₂ group recording the greatest result (873.48±0.720 g) when compared to the other three groups. Total feed intake varied significantly between the treatment groups. The T₁ group had the best feed conversion ratio (1.827±0.03), and there were significant differences in feed conversion ratio across the experimental groups (P>0.05). The experimental groups significantly differed from one another in terms of daily live weight gain (P>0.05). There were significant differences in the carcass, breast, drumstick, thigh, and wing weights across the various treatment groups (P>0.05). The lipid profile was significantly different (P>0.05) among the dietary treatment groups. Net profit was found to significantly (P>0.05) differ across the experimental groups, with the T₂ group achieving the greatest value (66.52 tk) and the T₀ group having the least price (44.58 tk). Therefore, Basak leaf extract may be supplemented with basal feeds to enhance the carcass yield, growth performance, and net profit of Sonali chicken. 

Keywords