Utilisation of squilla meal (a novel animal protein source) by broilers

Area of Science:

• Animal Nutrition
• Poultry Science
• Feed Technology

Background:

• Squilla meal is a potential alternative protein source for animal feed.
• Its nutritional profile and efficacy in broiler diets require thorough evaluation.
• Understanding its limitations is crucial for optimizing poultry nutrition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the nutritive value of squilla meal compared to fish meal for broilers.
• To investigate the effects of replacing fish meal with squilla meal on broiler performance.
• To explore methods for improving the utilization of squilla meal in broiler diets.

Main Methods:

• Nutritional analysis of squilla meal for protein, energy, and minerals.
• Comparative feeding trials with broilers using diets with varying squilla meal inclusion rates.
• Evaluation of growth performance, feed utilization, and intestinal morphology.
• Assessment of the impact of proteolytic enzyme supplementation and autoclaving on squilla meal efficacy.

Main Results:

• Squilla meal exhibited lower levels of essential amino acids (lysine, methionine) and protein digestibility compared to fish meal.
• Broiler diets with increasing squilla meal substitution showed a linear decrease in weight gain and feed efficiency.
• Squilla meal inclusion led to increased intestinal length in broilers.
• Proteolytic enzyme addition normalized weight gain and feed efficiency, while autoclaving reduced weight gain without affecting feed efficiency.

Conclusions:

• Squilla meal, as is, has limitations for broiler nutrition due to lower amino acid content and digestibility.
• Proteolytic enzyme supplementation can mitigate the negative effects of squilla meal on broiler performance.
• Autoclaving squilla meal negatively impacts broiler weight gain, indicating potential anti-nutritional factors.