The effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens CECT 5940 supplementation on the health performance and gut morphology of broiler chickens

Authors: Richad Richad, Tri W. Pangestiningsih and Michael H. Wibowo

Ger. J. Vet. Res 2024. vol. 4, Iss. 3 pp:74-82
Doi: https://doi.org/10.51585/gjvr.2024.3.0099

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Abstract:

Antibiotic Growth Promoters (AGPs) are commonly used in poultry to improve growth performance, reduce pathogenic bacteria, and prevent gastrointestinal diseases. However, concerns about antibiotic resistance have led to the search for alternatives like probiotics. This study evaluates the outcome of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens CECT 5940 (BA) administration on intestinal health profile, measured through histological structure examination (using scanning electron microscope) and fecal coliform and Escherichia coli enumeration, as well as overall health performance (growth-related parameters and ND genotype-7 virus antibody titers). A total of 91-day-old Cobb broilers were randomly assigned to three groups. The control group, G1, did not get any BA supplementation. The treatment group G2 was administered BA through their drinking water at a dose of 50 g/1,000 liters of water for 30 days. Finally, the treatment group G3 received BA at the same concentration but only on days 1-7, 13-17, and 23-27. Morphological parameters of the small intestine, health performance, and fecal microbial populations were measured on days 7, 14, 21, and 28. Antibody titers were sampled on day 30. On day 28, the villi height and width of the jejunum were significantly increased in G3 compared to those in G1 and G2. Over the experiment period, broilers in both treatment groups had higher (p<0.05) body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) than the control group. Furthermore, G3 had significantly lower feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to birds in G2 and G1. Both treatment groups had lower coliform and E. coli populations in their fecal samples than the control group. The measured antibody levels were also significantly higher in the two BA groups compared to the control, indicating better protection. In conclusion, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens has the potential to replace AGPs in broiler production with better results when administered at specific times.

Keywords:

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Probiotic, Broiler, AGP, Jejunum

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