Optimum Level of Cassava Pulp in Diets for Layers

Abstract

An experiment was conducted to determine the optimum level of cassava pulp that can be included in layer diets without adverse effect on egg production and quality. Cassava pulp replaced maize at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 or 30 %, with equal metabolisable energy and crude protein contents. The 30 % diet resulted in the lowest bulk density (610 g/litre). As the cassava pulp level increase in the diet, the weight of the small intestine and bursa increased (P<0.001). Inclusion of cassava pulp at 20 and 30 % in the diet was found to increase (P<0.001) feed intake per dozen eggs and egg production was reduced (P<0.001) between 25 and 26 weeks of age. Yolk colour score and shell thickness were adversely affected as cassava pulp level was increased. It can be concluded that cassava pulp can be used at up to 15 % in layer diet without detriment to egg population.