Effect of phytase supplementation in maize–soybean based feed on tibia bone characteristic of broiler chickens

Abstract

An experiment of 42 days with 150 one day-old broiler (Vencobb) chicks was conducted to determine the effect of supplementation of different levels of phytase enzyme on tibia characteristics of broilers fed on phosphorus deficient maize-soybean based rations. A total of 150 chicks were grouped into five treatments (two replicates in each treatment), each containing 30 chicks and designated as C, T1, T2, T3 and T4. An experimental ration was formulated containing low available phosphorus (0.28%) than the normal requirement 0.45% as per BIS specifications (2007). Broiler starter and finisher ration contained 21.45 and 19.10 percent crude protein, respectively. Ration containing low available P was fed in control group without any supplementation while, other treatments i.e. T1, T2, T3 and T4 were supplemented with phytase enzyme at the levels of 250, 500, 750 and 1000 FTU/Kg feed, respectively. It was concluded that phytase supplementation at any level did not have any significant effect on tibia weight and tibial measurements. Significant effect was found on supplementation of phytase at the level of 500FTU/kg phytase or more as compared to rest of groups.