Performance, Blood Chemistry and Serum Electrolytes of Broilers Given Water from Different Sources

Abstract

The role of water sources in broiler performance was assessed using 168 Abor Acre broiler birds. The birds
were randomly allotted to 4 treatments (Treatment 1(T1) - tap water, Treatment 2 (T2) – bore-hole water,
Treatment 3 (T3) – well water and Treatment 4 (T4) – river water), with 6 replicates each in a completely
randomized design. The initial weight was measured at hatch and subsequently on weekly basis till the final week
of study. Feed intake and conversion ratio were recorded and computed, while rectal temperature was obtained
using a clinical thermometer inserted into the rectum of the broiler chicken. On day 42, blood was collected via
the jugular vein into sample bottles for hematological and serum electrolyte assay. Data obtained were analyzed
and means separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Water source was observed to significantly
influence rectal temperature at the 4th week, with birds served borehole water having higher rectal temperature
than birds served river water. Source of water offered to the birds was also observed to influence (p<0.05) serum
levels of sodium, calcium, potassium and phosphorus. Sodium level was significantly higher in birds offered river
water, while borehole water resulted in significantly higher phosphorus level in broiler chicken.