Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of supplemental probiotic preparation on performance indices, serum enzymes and electrolytes of broiler chickens. Two hundred (200) day-old Marshall broiler chicks were randomly selected and distributed based on the level of supplementation into four groups of 50 chicks each (Control, C; E₁0.5%, E₂1.5% and E₃2.0%). Chickens fed 2.0% probiotic had a significantly higher body weight when compared with the control group. Activity of alanine aminotransferase differed significantly in the group E₁0.5%, and especially (p<0.01) in the group E₁1.5%. Alkaline phosphatase activity decreased significantly (p<0.05), when compared with that of the control group. Serum calcium and phosphorus concentrations in experimental groups were significantly higher. Potassium concentration in experimental group rose significantly (p<0.05), when compared with that of the control broiler chickens. In conclusion, supplementing broiler feeds with 2.0% yeast probiotic improved performance indices, serum enzyme activities and enhanced the maintenance of electrolyte homeostasis in broiler chickens.

Key words: Body weight, feed conversion ratio, serum biochemistry,Saccharomyces cerevisiae, broiler chicken.

Abbreviation

ALT, Alanine aminotransferase; ALP, alkaline phosphatase; BW, body weight; FCR, feed conversion ratio; FI, feed intake; AST, aminotransferase.