Pages: (135-137 )
Abstract
A total of 200 day old Abor acre broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments and replicated four times in a completely randomized design to evaluate the effect of anthocyanin and ascorbic acid in graded levels of the red variety of roselle calyx extract on haematological indices and serum biochemistry of broiler chickens. Treatment 1 served as control, while treatment 2, 3, 4 and 5 represented the various graded levels of the extract. The experiment lasted 42 days in which feed was supplied ad libitum. All data obtained were subjected to ANOVA and means separated using Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test. Haematological indices namely PCV, haemoglobin and RBC showed no significant difference (P>0.05) in the values obtained among treatment means. However, there was statistical difference (P<0.05) in the values obtained for WBC and neutrophils, other factions of WBC showed no significant difference. Total protein, albumin and AST obtained showed no significant difference (P>0.05) except for globulin and ALT. Anthocyanin and ascorbic acid present in the aqueous extract boosted immunity and fought infections when administered to broiler chickens. A graded level of 4g of the calyx boiled in one litre of water for 30minutes is however recommended for optimum result.
Keywords: Roselle calyx extract, serum biochemistry, haematology, broiler chickens,