Determination of the Minimum Crude Protein Requirements of Broiler Starters and Finishers in the Tropics

THREE experiments were conducted with broiler chicks to determine the minimum crude protein levels in diets of starters and finishers reared a tropical environment. The first two trials covered both starter finisher periods 12 weeks while third experiment only finishing period. calculated dietary used trial 14,16 18, 20, 22 24%; second trial, 22, 24 26% 14, 16, 18 20% on air dry basis. Results showed 24% (trial 1) 2) promoted highly significantly better live weight gains than all other rations during period period, there no significant differences liveweight containing although growth was always higher diets. Diets 16 18% grossly inadequate for if birds adequate before being put diets, those almost equally well, among rates. feed/gain ratios followed same trends as obtained rates, becoming Mortality highest lowest percent nitrogen retained tended be better, though not so, On basis these studies, it is recommended that tropics should contain less protein, optimal results.