Effects of cellulase from Trichoderma viride on nutrient utilization by broilers

Studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of cellulase from Trichoderma viride in a diet for broilers containing high levels of wheat bran. Broiler-type, mixed-sex chicks were fed from 3 to 8 weeks of age. Wheat bran was added at 0, 10, and 20% levels. A fourth group received the 20% wheat bran plus the cellulase enzyme added at the level of .008%. A portion of the chicks was used in a digestibility study with chromic oxide as an indicator. The summarized data showed that cellulose treatment had a significant effect on reducing feed consumption (P less than .01) and an apparent effect in improving feed-to-gain ratio. Cellulase supplementation significantly improved the digestibility of cell wall components (P less than .01). Calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and copper associated with cell walls were solubilized by cellulase. Iron balance was negative in the groups without cellulase; however, iron, which is bound by the bran, apparently was made available for absorption by cellulase.