INFLUENCE OF Chromolaena odorata–Aspilia africana LEAF EXTRACT RATIOS ON CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILER CHICKENS

This study evaluated the influence of Chromolaena odorata–Aspilia africana (CO–AA) leaf extract ratios on the carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. A total of 220 day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four treatments, comprising five replicates of 11 birds each, in a completely randomised design. The treatments consisted of an unsupplemented control (CA0) and CO–AA extract blends at ratios of 50:50 (CA1), 70:30 (CA2) and 30:70 (CA3), administered through drinking water at 10 mL/L daily for 42 days. At the end of the experiment, 20 birds were selected for carcass evaluation. Data were analysed using analysis of variance, and treatment means were separated using Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test at P < 0.05. CA1 recorded the highest numerical live weight (2,120 g), whereas CA2 had the highest numerical dressed weight (73.02%). CA3 recorded the highest numerical breast-cut percentage (25.39%), although differences in dressed weight and breast-cut percentage were not statistically significant. Significant treatment differences were observed in defeathered weight, head, neck, thigh and drumstick proportions. CA3 recorded lower defeathered weight (89.79%), thigh (10.64%) and drumstick (8.87%) percentages than the control. Overall, the 50:50 blend demonstrated the most favourable general carcass response among the supplemented groups, particularly in live weight. However, its superiority was not established across all carcass parameters. The findings indicate that CO–AA blend ratios influence carcass characteristics and warrant further investigation to establish optimal formulation and dosage for broiler production.