Effect of Graded Levels of Melon Seed (Citrullus lanatus) Cake on the Performance, Carcass Evaluation and Blood Parameters of Broiler Chicken

A 42-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate Melon Seed Cake (MSC) as dietary protein source in broiler diets. Four diets were formulated to contain MSC at 0, 10, 20 and 30 per cent dietary levels. One hundred, day–old Arbor Acre broiler chicks were used for the study in a Completely Randomised Design. Feed intake, weight gain and feed to gain ratio were significantly affected by dietary levels of MSC (P<0.05). Birds fed diet with 0% MSC consumed more feed (P<0.05). Weight gain was significantly different (P<0.05), highest weight gained was observed among birds fed 10% MSC inclusion level, there were no significant (P<0.05) feed to gain ratio across the dietary treatment. Values for haematological and blood serum chemistry differed significantly (P<0.05). Birds fed 30% MSC had the highest packed cell volume, red blood cells and, lymphocytes. Highest glucose level was observed at 10% MSC levels, while highest uric acid, alkaline phosphate, glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase were observed at 30% MSC inclusion level, those on 20% MSC had more serum protein. Significant (P<0.05) differences existed in nutrient retention across the dietary treatment. Melon seed cake is recommended at 10% inclusion level in broiler diets.