Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed with Different Levels of Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) Leaf Meal

Aim:The study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating varying levels of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) leaf meal (WHLM) into broiler diets on growth performance, in support of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger.Methodology: A total of 150 five-day-old Cobb broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments: 0% (control), 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% WHLM.Each treatment had three replications in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD).Data were collected on growth performance, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and feed conversion efficiency (FCE).Results: The inclusion of WHLM at all levels tested (0% to 12%) did not negatively affect the broilers' growth performance, feed intake, FCR, or FCE.Notably, the 9% WHLM inclusion level yielded the highest income above feed and chick expenses, indicating improved economic returns.Conclusion: Water hyacinth leaf meal, particularly at a 9% inclusion rate, is a viable and cost-effective feed additive for broilers.It supports economic efficiency without compromising performance and offers a sustainable use for an abundant and inexpensive resource, contributing to both environmental management and food security.