Effect of Supplemental Microbial Enzymes on Nutrient Digestibility and Gross Response of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Containing High-Yielding Triticale

Abstract

In a previous study, we showed that two new cultivars of triticale, Bogong and Canobolas, developed by a crop-breeding group at the University of New England, Australia, were superior to wheat in nutritive value for broiler chickens. In this follow-up study we investigated the benefits of further supplementation of diets containing these cultivars with xylanase and phytase (Econase XT and Quantum XT, AB Vista, UK), individually or in combination. The diets contained 65% triticale and were fed from hatch to 21 days of age. Data were analysed by the General Linear Model of Minitab. Feed intake to day 7 and 21d on supplemented Bogong diets (combined xylanase and phytase or Phytase alone) was higher (P<0.05) than on the control Bogong diet, while for the diets with Canobolas, xylanase and phytase ensured higher (P<0.05) feed intake than on the other Canobolas diets. Live weight at 7 and 21d on the diets was improved (P<0.05) by xylanase and phytase in combination or by phytase only. Feed conversion ratio was similar between the diets. The digestibility of crude protein, gross energy, starch, calcium and phosphorus on all enzyme-supplemented diets was improved by enzyme supplementation. There were no major differences between the cultivars. The results indicate a positive response to the tested enzyme supplements. Further studies will be conducted into the effects of these treatments on intestinal microbial profiles and digestive enzyme activities.