EFFECT OF DIETARY PROBIOTICS ON GROWTH AND HEMATOLOGY OF BROILER CHICKEN

Abstract

The poultry industry during the past two decades has been one of the most dynamic and ever-expanding sectors in the world. It helps to fill the gap between the requirement and availability of high-quality protein for human consumption. The demand for a higher and safer protein source, free of infectious agents, is increasing. This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary probiotics on the growth performance, organ development, and hematological markers of broiler chickens. Four treatment groups were established: a control group received no probiotics, and three experimental groups received probiotics at doses of 100 mg/L, 300 mg/L, and 500 mg/L, respectively. Throughout the 22-day trial, measurements were made of body weight, morphometric lengths, organ weights (liver, heart, lung, and gizzard), and significant hematological parameters (RBC, Hb, PLT, and WBC). The findings demonstrated a dose-dependent improvement in body weight and organ development, with the most significant gains observed in the 500 mg/L group. Furthermore, when probiotic doses increased, morphometric measurements such as organ and body lengths continuously improved. The RBC and Hb levels in the 300 mg/L group remained relatively constant, suggesting that this would be the optimal dose for supporting both development and physiological health. Hematological analysis showed different reactions. These results indicate that probiotic supplementation, particularly at levels of 300–500 mg/L, may be a helpful strategy to enhance broiler performance. The study emphasizes the importance of balanced dosing to prevent potential hematological abnormalities. This work contributes to the growing body of research showing that probiotics are a natural growth promoter for chickens.