seyyed javad hosseini vashan

The aim of this experiment was to investigate and compare the effectiveness of the microencapsulated of medicinal plant extracts and raw extracts of six plants involved thyme, oregano, rosemary, fennel, turmeric and peppermint on growth performance, carcass components and immune response of broilers. In invitro condition, the extracts were microcoated with different ratios of carbohydrate wall (1:10, 1:15 and 1:20). The results showed that the ratio of 1:10 microencapsulated is more efficiency in terms of quality indicators. For this experiment, 650 one-day-old chicks of ROSS 308 were used in a completely randomized design with 13 treatments, 5 replicats and 10 birds for 42 days. The amount of 600 mg/kg of raw extract and 6.6 gr/kg of micro-encapsulated extract of plants was added to the rations in a mixed component. Data on feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio were recorded in periods of 0-10, 11-24 and 25-42 days. On the seventh day of the experiment, Newcastle and influenza vaccines were injected, and at the 35th day, one bird from each replicate were bleeding and the antibody titer was measured. The results showed, as compare to control, treatments containing a microencapsulated extracts increased body weight in the starter and grower periods, and improved the FCR in the starter, grower an d whole period of experiment(P<0.05). However, the treatments containing raw and microencapsulated extract had no effect on feed intake. The treatments of raw and microencapsulated extracts increased the relative weight of carcass and abdominal fat, but had no effect on the antibody titer against Newcastle disease and influenza. Therefore, the addition of different proportions of microcapsule extract may improve the growth performance of broiler chickens.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of dietary metabolizable energy levels (EL) and stocking density (SD) on growth performance, blood indices, jejunal morphology and meat quality in Arian broiler chickens. A total of 672 Arian one-day-old chicks were used in a completely randomized design with 2×4 factorial arrangement, including two stocking density (12, 16 birds/m2) and four energy levels (EL1: Arian recommendation energy level, EL2: 3.5% higher energy level for finisher2, EL3: 3.5% higher energy level for all periods, EL4: 3.5% higher starter, grower and finisher1 and 6.1% higher energy level for finisher2) with eight treatments and six replicates. The results showed that recommendation Arian catalogue energy level with 16 birds/m2 decreased body weight gain in the finisher2 (42-36 days) and the whole period (1-42 days) and had highest feed conversion ratio in the finisher2 (P<0.001). Increased energy level (EL3) significantly decreased feed intake in finisher2 period. The carcass efficiency, breast relative weight and abdominal fat as increased as energy levels enhanced. In HSD, EL2 compared to EL3 increased relative weigh of heart. Also, EL3 increased low-density lipoprotein and alanine transaminase concentration in HSD. Concentration of albumin, total protein and high-density lipoprotein were decreased by stock density, on the contrary, Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase increased (P<0.05). The lowest height of villi was related to EL1 in HSD, and the highest villi height was observed in EL4 and low stock density. High energy level increased the villus width, the ratio of the villus height to the crypt depth (VH/CD) and the absorption area (P<0.05). HSD significantly reduced villus height and width, VH/CD and absorption area of villus (P<0.05). The interaction of energy level and SD did not affect any of the meat quality indicators. Furthermore, the findings of the present study showed there is no significant difference between 12 and 16 birds/m2 during the whole of period. The HSD decreased the growth performance and had a negative effect on the feed conversion ratio, whereas improved the performance of Arian broiler chickens when increased the energy level by 3.5% in the finisher 2.

 The increase in the cost of the diet, especially the protein part, has caused the desire of producer and researchers to use by-products. The use of animal waste not only reduces the cost of feed but also reduces the entry of contaminants into the environment. Hydrolyzed feathers, meat meal, bone meal, poultry by-product meal (PBM) and fish oil are some of the by-products used in poultry, dairy cattle and other livestock diet. Also, the use of pelleted feed in broiler chicken is increasing, because it produces less dust, improves digestibility, reduces transportation costs, and improves performance indicators such as feed consumption and decrease feed conversion ratio. Sodium bentonite (SB) is one of the substances that has been used as pellet binder in feed. Several studies have evaluated the effects of the addition of SB and had beneficial results on pelleting physical properties such as pellet durability index (PDI) and pellet hardness. Addition of active SB as a pellet binder in wheat-soybean meal-based diets has increased the relative electrical energy usage (REEU) and decreased the feed conversion ratio. However, studies on the use of different levels of PBM and SB as a pellet binder in broiler chicken diets are very limited, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of pellet binder levels of SB in diets containing different amounts of PBM on performance, carcass traits and blood metabolites of Ross 308 broiler chickens in finisher period.

Treatments were assigned in a completely randomized design based on a factorial arrangement of 3 levels of SB conditioning time (0, 1.5 and 3%) × 3 levels of PBM (0, 5 and 10%). Experimental diets were balanced based on Ross 308 recommendations for finisher period (24-42 d) by using UFFDA software. In the present experiment PBM and pellet binder of SB samples were prepared from MegaFaravar Co., Iran. Ingredients of diets were ground through a 2-mm screen size in a hammer mill. All diets mixed in a double-shaft mixer and transferred to super conditioner with 82◦C for 10s, and then pelleted through a 3-mm die. After pelleting of feed produced, 3 replications of each treatment with 3-minute intervals were sampled from the cooler part of the pellet machine. The PDI, hardness test and REEU related to experimental diets was measured. Also, a total of 360 24-day-old male chicks were individually weighted and allocated to 9 treatments of 4 replicates (10 birds in each replication). Feed intake (FI), average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded. On 42 day, 2 birds per pen were randomly euthanized by cervical dislocation. Carcass characteristics and relative weight of small intestinal segments were measured. Total protein, glucose, albumin, lipoproteins (HDL, LDL) were determined by using autoanalyzer device and commercial kits.

Addition of 1.5% SB improved and the use of PBM due to its high fat content reduced the quality characteristics of the pellet that due to their strong colloidal properties and giving rise to a thixotropic gelatinous substance. Likewise, different levels of SB as a pellet binder and PBM did not change the ADG and FCR (P <0.05). However, the use of different levels of PBM with and without SB reduced FI (P<0.05). Also, the relative weight of carcass, breast and thigh was not affected by experimental treatments (P <0.05). Abdominal fat increased significantly in the groups receiving PBM (P <0.05). Amino acid imbalances in PBM probably increase deamination and conversion of amino acids to fat. Significant reduction in duodenum and ileum length was observed in the group containing 3% SB and 10% PBM (P <0.05). Also, the level of 10% PBM with and without SB increased the concentration of blood lipids. Blood lipids concentration have a positive correlation with weight and feed as an environmental factor affects its amount.

In general, the results of this experiment showed that application of PBM as a source of protein with adequate nutritional value up to 5% without negative effects on performance for use in pelleted diet of broilers at high levels when soybean meal is expensive and or not available, it is possible and useable. Also, commercial sodium bentonite can be used as a pellet binder to increase the quality of pellets up to 1.5%. The need for further studies on the simultaneous use of sodium bentonite as a pellet binder and PBM are recommended to ensure the results obtained in other broiler chicken breeding periods.

The use of agricultural and food industry by-products in animal feed leads to a reduction in breeding costs. In addition application of agricultural waste in poultry feed also reduces the environmentally harmful effects. One of these by-products is pistachio green peel, which is produced in food industries. Common pistachio (common pistachio in the market) with the scientific name Pistacia vera is a plant of the genus Anacardiaceae. Iran is the world's largest pistachio producer with 58% of the world's pistachio production. Research has shown that about four hundred thousand tons of pistachio by-products are produced annually in Iran and large volumes in the harvest season and high humidity of these products cause environmental pollution and pistachio orchards. Pistachio green peel has a parenchymal and fibrous structure and contains water, sugars, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, color compounds and terpenes. Green pistachio skin contains 4425.45 Kcal/kg of gross energy, 32.64% of dry matter, 11.24% of crude protein, 15.38% of crude fiber, 13.13% of ash, 5.79% of ether extract, 1.08 of calcium, 0.11% of phosphorus, 0.31% of magnesium, 4.44% of potassium. The concentrations of iron, manganese, copper and zinc in pistachio green peel are 660.68, 23.6, 16.23 and 5.27 mg/kg, respectively. There are significant amounts of alpha-pinene, alpha-terpinolene, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Food sources rich in phenolic compounds have a set of physiological properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-mutagenicity, lipoprotein oxidation inhibitor and have platelet aggregation, anti-inflammatory activity  and strengthen the immune response. The use of pistachio green peel extract improved the growth performance of broiler chickens, blood lipids and abdominal fat. The use of pistachio green skin extract in the diet of broiler infected with Staphylococcus aureus improved growth performance, increased antibody titer against sheep erythrocytes, decreased blood lipids and microbial population of the gastrointestinal tract of broilers. Therefore, the aim of this research was to investigate the effect of Green Pistacia of kallequchi and it’s processed with urea on growth performance, blood indices, immune response and jejunum morphology of broiler chickens.

A total of 280 male broilers were randomly distributed in 28 experimental units including 7 treatments, 4 replicates and 10 chicks each. The experimental diets consisted of the levels of 0, 1.5, 3, and 5% of the raw and processed green hull of kallequchi pistachio. The broilers were fed with three dietary programs including starter (1-10 days), grower (11-24 days), and finisher (25-42 days). At the end of each period, the body weight gain and feed consumption were recorded and the feed conversion ratio was calculated. Two birds of each replicate were slaughtered and their blood was gathered to analyze the biochemical blood indices at 42 days of age. The data were analyzed with SAS software and the mean was compared with the Tukey test at 0.05.

The addition of green hull of pistachio and its processed to diets cause a decrease in the feed conversion ratio during the starter and the whole period of the experiment (P≤0.05). In the starter period, adding 3% of the green hull of the pistachio increased the body weight gain compared to the control (P <0.05). The pistachio green hull increased total antibody and immunoglobulin G antibody titer against sheep red blood cells compared to control (P≤0.05). Experimental diets decreased serum cholesterol and LDL concentrations compare to control (P≤0.05). The green hull of kallequchi pistachio and its processed increased the villus height and decreased villus width and the ratio of height to crypt depth compared to the control (P≤0.05). Different levels of kallequchi pistachio green hull and its processed increased relative weight of the breast, heart, burs fabricius and decreased abdominal fat compared to control (P≤0.05). The same findings were reported by researchers that pistachio green hull extract decreased blood lipids and increased the immune response of broiler chickens (Yousefi et al., 2018; Hosseini Vashan et al., 2020).

It is concluded that adding green hull of kallequchi pistachio up to 5% into broiler diets may improve growth performance, however, the addition of 3% could reduce cholesterol, FCR and improve the immune response of broiler chickens.

This study was done to investigate the effect of pomegranate peel extract on growth performance, blood biochemical indices, intestinal morphology and meat quality of broiler fed diet-contained soybean oil. 120 male broilers were used in the form of a completely randomized design with 3 treatments, 4 repetitions and 10 chicks. Experimental diets were three levels of zero, 300 and 600 mg/kg of pomegranate peel extract (PPE). Pomegranate peel extract had no effect on performance traits including feed intake, body weight and feed conversion ratio at starter and finisher phases, but in the grower period, the levels of 300 and 600 PPE reduced feed intake (from 928 to 777 g) and feed conversion ratio (from 1.77 to 1.31; P <0.05) compare to control. The breast percentage increased from 19.78 in control to 21.95 at the level of 600 PPE and the percentage of abdominal fat decreased from 1.93 in control to 1.27 at the level of 600 PPE (P <0.05). The PPE at levels of 600 reduced concentration of cholesterol (183.68 to 137.15 mg/dl) and LDL (95.63 to 32.93 mg/dl) and the enzyme activity of aspartate dehydrogenase (263.8 to 204.28) compare to control. The villus height (from 1026.88 to 1155.12) and the villus height to crypt depth ratio (5.04 to 5.6) were higher at the 600 PPE compared to the control. The concentration of Malondialdehyde in meat decreased at 15 and 30 days after slaughter with an increase in PPE compared to control.

Nutrition and feedstuffs are the main part of the costs in the breeding of roiler chicekn. Introduce of new feedstuffs and agricultural wastes as part of the diet can be an effective step in reducing production costs. The use of dried surplus mulberry due to its valuable nutrients can be effective in poultry nutrition.The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of using different levels of dried surplus mulberry and multi-enzyme supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, blood indices, immune response and intestinal morphology in broiler chickens.

Three hundred twenty 1-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were used in a completely randomized design with factorial arrangement. The experimental treatments included 4 levels of mulberry (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5- %) and 2 levels of multi-enzyme (0 and 0.1%). Eight dietary treatments had 4 replicates and 10 birds in each replicate. At 42 days of age, 2 chickens were slaughtered from each replicate and blood samples and carcass coonents were taken. In order to evaluate the intestinal morphology, a 1 cm piece of chickens's jejunum was collected and fixed in formalin.

Resutls: 

The results were revealed that interaction effects in diet contained 7.5% of dried surplus mulberry compared to 2.5% of mulberry increased the amount of feed intake at the starter period (0-10 days; p<0.05). The carcass efficiency was higher in birds fed 2.5% of mulberry compared to other treatments. The treatment with 5 and 7.5% dried surplus mulberry with enzyme decreased abdominal fat percentage and increased the percentage of burs of fabricus, spleen and anti-SRBC titer compared to control group (p<0.05). The carcass efficiency and abdominal fat percentages were affected by the enzyme supplementation (p<0.05). The treatments of 5 and 7.5% dried surplus mulberry with enzyme, increased the villus height and absorption area of intestine in comparison to control group (p<0.05). The interaction effects of dried surplus mulberry and multi-enzyme were significantly decreased cholesterol, LDL and increased HDL concentration in comparison to control group (p<0.05).

It is concluded that using dried mulberry surplus with enzyme may decrease blood lipid and improve immune response and intestine morphology without effect on growth performance of broiler chickens.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) seed pulp is one of the wastes of agricultural conversion industries that has been increasingly used in recent years due to its antioxidant properties in animal nutrition. Pomegranate seed pulp contains polyphenolic compounds that mainly contain ellagic acid, punicalagin and punicallin, which have antioxidant properties and prevent the peroxidation of fats and the activity of free radicals. In addition to polyphenolic compounds, pomegranate seeds contain estrogens such as "estradiol, estrone and estriol" and in lower concentrations also contain testosterone, beta-sitosterol and coumestrol, but there are many reports about its side effects on the physiology and metabolism of ruminants. Due to the role of estrogens in lipid metabolism, pomegranate seed pulp as an estrogen-rich plant source may be able to mimic the regulatory role of endogenous estrogens on metabolism and reproduction. In this study, the estrogenic effects of pomegranate seed pulp on serum estradiol concentration and other blood and antioxidant variables of dry non-pregnant Saanen goats were investigated.

In this experiment, 18 non-pregnant dry Saanen goats in 3rd to 4th parity number with average weight of 44.85 ± 5.16 kg were used in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments and 6 replications. Experimental treatments included: 1) control treatment 2) Basal diet with 12% of pomegranate seed pulp 3) Basal diet with 12% of pomegranate seed pulp + ozone gas (estrogen removal agent from pomegranate). Blood parameters of estradiol, albumin, direct bilirubin, total bilirubin, creatinine, glucose, betahydroxybutyrate, urea, uric acid, blood urea nitrogen, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate and alanine aminotransferase, Triglycerides, HDL, LDL and plasma antioxidant factors of MDA and TAC were measured. Experimental data were statistically analyzed by SAS software with mixed procedure as repeated data over time.

Based on the results, the parameters of standard estradiol concentration and the area under the serum estradiol concentration curve increased (33.36 pg.ml-1 and 605.12 cm2 respectively) significantly during the estrus cycle under the influence of treatment 2 (p <0.05). Ozone gas in treatment 3 significantly reduced these variables (28.13 and 543.91) compared to treatment 2 and was not significantly different from the control (25.56 and 515.12). Blood parameters other than phosphorus and some antioxidant variables were not significantly affected by experimental treatments, indicating insufficient estrogen intake to disrupt homeostasis of blood parameters at level of 12% Replacement of pomegranate seed pulp with wheat bran.

Generally, the level of 12% of pomegranate seed pulp in the studied physiological stage, did not have significant negative effects on normal metabolic parameters of Saanen goats. Elimination of the effect of estrogen in treatment 3 indicates that ozone gas is able to diminish the effect of dietary phytoestrogens.

This study was to investigate the effect of Portulaca oleracea L. extract(POE) on performance, carcass characteristics, immune response, blood indices and intestinal morphology in broilers under heat stress. 200 Ross 308 single-day-old chicks were used in a completely randomized design with 5 treatments, 4 replications and 10 chicks. Experimental groups were: negative control (no heat stress), four groups under heat stress (positive control), 250, 500 and 750mg of POE per kg diet. Results showed that using POE increased feed intake and body weight compared to the control (P <0.05). Chicks fed POE had lower feed conversion ratio than positive control group (P<0.05). Addition of POE to broiler diet had no effect on relative weight of carcass components including breast, thigh, spleen, bile, pancreas and abdominal fat. The POE reduced the relative weight of heart and liver compared to the positive control and the relative weight of bursa was higher in the chicks fed the POE (P<0.05). The POE increased total antibody titer against sheep red blood cells. Using the POE in broiler diet had no effect on plasma concentration albumin and protein, but the lowest concentration of cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL and highest HDL were observed broilers fed 750 POE. The activity of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase enzymes decreased during heat stress compared to negative control. POE increased villus height and absorption area compared to control(P<0.05). It is concluded that using POE reduced plasma concentration of cholesterol, LDL, and plasma MDA in broilers under heat stress.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of zinc oxide on production performance, egg quality and antioxidant status of layer hens. This experiment was performed with 96 Bovens strain layer hens at peak production (28-35 weeks) in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments with 4 replicates and 8 hens each for 3 periods of 28 days. The treatments included control group (without zinc oxide nanoparticles) and two levels of 100 and 200 mg zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) /kg of diet. Experimental diets were provided to laying hens for 8 weeks. Zinc oxide nanoparticles increased the egg mass (32-35 wk), and decreased feed intake (28-31wk) compared to control (P<0.05). The ZnONPs did not affect the egg production and egg weight. The haugh unit (31 and 35 wks) and quality traits of egg shell including eggshell stability (31 and 35 wks), and relative weight of eggshell and specific gravity (35wk) increased with increasing ZnONPs supplementation in diet (P<0.05). The concentration of total protein, HDL, and antibody against Newcastle disease were not affected by ZnONPs supplementation level. The use of ZnONPs supplementation reduced the concentration of cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, concentration of MDA in blood and yolk, and the activity of the enzyme ALT (P<0.05). The ZnONPs supplementation increased the antibody titer against the influenza and increased zinc concentration in the blood. The results of this research showed that supplementation of 200 mg of ZnONPs per kg of layer diet may improve the growth performance indices, hough unit and egg shell quality, and decrease the blood lipids and improve immune response in layer hens at peak production.

To determine the effects of olive pulp(OP) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood indices and intestinal morphology in Japanese quail, A total of 352 days-old quail were allocated to four treatments with four replicates (22 birds each). Excreta were quantitatively collected during 18-21 days of age for measurement digestibility of nutrient. The dietary treatments were included control (0%) and the levels of four, eight and 12 percent OP. At 35 days old, from each replicate, two quails were randomly selected and slaughtered. The dietary treatments did not influence weight gain, feed intake, and FCR. The OP did not influence the relative weight of carcass, breast, thigh, heart, and spleen, but the highest relative weight of liver and gizzard were observed in 12 percent OP (p < 0.05). The ileum villus height was higher in birds fed OP as compared to control(p < 0.05). Crude protein and crude fat digestibility in chickens fed 12% OP and was increased compared to control (p < 0.05). Ash and phosphorous digestibility increased in chickens received 8% OP compare to control (p < 0.05). The olive pulp decreased the plasma MDA concentration as compared to control (p < 0.05), however, treatments had no significant effects on other blood indices. The lowest enzyme activity of AST was observed in the control and the highest enzyme activity of GPx and SOD were observed in 12% OP (p < 0.05). The results were indicated that the inclusion of olive pulp up to 12% had no detrimental effects on growth performance and blood lipid profile but significantly decreased plasma malondialdehyde (p < 0.05).

This study was conducted to investigate the application of different levels of peeled and washed quinoa seeds on growth performance, immune response, nutrient digestibility and intestinal morphology in broilers. A total 280 Ross 308, one day old chicks were used in a completely randomized design with seven treatments, four replicates and 10 chicks per replicate. Experimental groups consisted of seven groups; fed 4, 8 and 12% peeled quinoa, or 4, 8 and 12% washed quinoa, and one control group. The results showed that using 4% peeled quinoa significantly increased the body weight and the feed intake. Broiler fed 4% peeled quinoa had lower FCR compare to the control (P<0.05). The using of 4% peeled quinoa increased the relative weight of carcass components including the breast and thigh (P<0.05) but decreased abdominal fat compared to the control group (P<0.05). The relative weight of bursa was higher in chicks fed different levels of quinoa (P<0.05). At 42 days of age the quinoa had no effect on the titer of immunoglobulin M and G index but increased total anti-SRBC index in broilers fed different levels of processed quinoa, compared to control (P<0.05). Quinoa reduced the concentration of cholesterol and LDL in broiler chicks (P<0.05). The processed quinoa at 4% increased the villus height and crypt depth (P <0.05), but did not affect the villus width of jejunum of broilers. It is concluded that using peeled and washed quinoa at 4% improved growth performance of broiler chickens. However, up to 12% washed or peeled quinoa had no negative effect on growth performance, and may decrease abdominal fat and blood lipid and may increase immune response of broiler chickens.

Extracts rich in phenolic compounds have an important role in antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, and pistachio green hull extract is rich in polyphenolic compounds.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of green peel of Kalleqouchi and Fandoghi pistachio extract on performance, relative weight of carcass components, blood indices and intestinal microbial population of broiler chickens challenged with Staphylococcus aureus.

A total 168 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly divided into six treatments, four replications and seven chicks. Experimental treatments included unchallenged groups (negative control) and chickens challenged with Staphylococcus aureus and fed 0, 200 and 400 mg / kg of aqueous extract of Kalleqouchi pistachio and 200 and 400 mg/ kg of pistachio Fandoghi green extract. All infected chicks were inoculated with oral solution containing 3 x 109 CFU of Staphylococcus aureus. Performance characteristics, immunity, blood indices and microbial population of the intestine were determined.

The aqueous extract of green pistachio inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus but the ethanolic extract inhibited the growth of lactobacilli. Growth performance of chicks was not affected by the experimental treatments except at day 24, when aqueous extract of 200 mg / kg led to higher body weight gain as compared to control (0.049). Kalleqouchi extract at 400 mg/kg level increased abdominal fat (P = 0.0005) and had no effect on relative weight of other carcass components. The 400 mg/kg Fandoghi green extract and 200 mg/kg kalleqouchi extract increased enzyme activity of alanine aminotransferase activity and decreased the concentration of blood total protein (P <0.01). The pistachios extracts at all levels increased total antibody titer compared to control (P <0.02). Pistachio extract reduced total bacterial population of jejunal area compared to negative control (P = 0.008).

Application of aqueous extract of pistachio extract improves immune response, decreases blood lipids and intestinal microbial population of broiler chickens challenged with Staphylococcus aureus.

Introduction:

products such as sugar beet pulp and various types of brans are rich sources of fibers, each with different percentages of soluble and insoluble fibers. Ostrich (Struthio camelus) has a long rectum (about 8 meters) that occupies about 57 % of the length of its gastrointestinal tract, but in the broiler chicken the rectum is only about 3 % of gut tract. The microorganisms in the ostrich's large intestine can digest 38% of cellulose and 68% of hemicellulose. The dietary fiber is divided into two types of water-soluble and water-insoluble. The water-insoluble fibers are including cellulose, lignin and a part of hemicellulose. Due to the higher passage rate of the digestive tract, they are less fermentable than soluble fibers. Water-soluble fibers are mainly including pectin, gum, and mucilage. Soluble fibers reduce the contact of enzymes with digesta, due to increase viscosity, thereby reducing digestion and absorption of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract. Due to the fact that the effect of soluble and insoluble fibers in the digestive tract is different from each other and so far no research has been done on the effect of fiber source in ostriches. This study was aimed to determine the nutritional value and digestibility of nutrients of diets containing two fiber sources soluble and insoluble in ostrich chicks.     

Materials and Methods :

In order to evaluate the feasibility of using the higher levels of soluble and insoluble fibers in ostrich’s diet, this experiment was undertaken using 30 ostrich chicks in a completely randomize design with 5 treatments and 6 replicates in each treatments (one bird in each replicate) in three periods; prestarter (1- 2 months), starter (2- 4 months) and grower (4-6 months). The experimental treatments were as follows: 1-Control diet with standard fiber level, 2- Treatment contains 2% more soluble fiber than control (sugar beet pulp as the source of soluble fiber), 3- Treatment contains 4% more soluble fiber than control (Sugar beet pulp as a source of soluble fiber), 4- Treatment contains 2% more insoluble fiber than control (wheat bran as a source of insoluble fiber) and 5- Treatment contains 4% more insoluble fiber than control (wheat bran as a source of insoluble fiber). A total 30 ostrich chicks were reared at an average weight of 3082± 202.37 grams in cages. In order to determine the digestibility of nutrients, AME and AMEn, the total excreta were collected. Nutrients contents of feed and excreta were measured according to AOAC (1997) methods. The raw energy of feed and excreta was measured by the calorimeter bomb apparatus. Megazim kit was used to measure the total dietary fiber (AOAC Official Method 991.43). The amount of soluble fiber was calculated by subtracting the insoluble fiber from total dietary fiber. Data were analyzed using SAS software (2002) using mixed procedure for repeated measurements with a significance level of 0.05 by Tukey Cramer method.

Results and Discussion:

 Data showed that fiber source had no effect on nutrient digestibility. Ostrich rectum is longer than its small intestine (the rectum occupies 57% of the digestive tract and small intestine occupies 29% of the digestive tract) and a good place to ferment the plant fibers. Fiber digestive bacteria such as fibrobacter succinogenes and ruminococcus flavafaciens in ostrich's ceca and other fermenter bacteria in the ostrich's rectum enable it to have the proper ability to utilize fiber sources. Since the beginning of the experiment was from the age of one month, ostrich chicks had sufficient ability to use different fiber sources. The difference in the rate of digestive contents through the consumption of soluble or insoluble fiber sources had no significant effect on digestibility of nutrients. Soluble and insoluble fibers digestibility and ash digestibility increased with ageing (p < 0.0001). As birds age increase the bacterial activity increase in the rectum and ceca. There was no significant difference in AME in treatments that had more soluble fiber compared with the control group, but AME and AMEn increased significantly with increasing insoluble fiber compared to treatments that had more soluble fiber (p < 0.0001). Which is probably related to the effect of insoluble fiber in the small intestine. Insoluble fiber diets improve the efficiency of nutrients utilization due to increasing the villi height to crypt depth ratio, therefore increased AME and AMEn. The differences in AME and AMEn with consumption of insoluble fiber source in comparison with other treatments are related to the greater effect of different fiber sources on the small intestine. Insoluble fiber decreases the viscosity of digestive contents and increases the effect of digestive enzymes secreted from intestinal cells (such as alpha amylase) and improve the digestion of starch and other nutrients and increase the energy obtaining from the diet by the ostriches. AMEn significantly increased with aging that may due to the increase of the activity of older birds, increase the energy required for maintenance and activity and hence more consumption of energy by the bird. The microbial population of the cecum and colon of the ostrich (from 3 weeks onwards) is similar to the rumen, which has the ability to ferment the fiber and produce volatile fatty acids, which these volatile fatty acids provide part of the metabolizable energy.

Conclusion :

According to the results of this study, a suitable range for soluble and insoluble fibers in ostriches diets from one to two months old were suggested to be 7.5 to 11.5 percent and 16 to 20 percent, at the age of 2 to 4 months 7.6 to 11.6 percent and 20 to 24 percent and at the age of 4 to 6 months 8.25 to 12.25 percent and 25.5 to 29.5 percent, respectively.

In order to investigate the effects of different levels of iron nano-oxide(INO) on performance, egg quality parameters and the antioxidant status of laying hens, 96 Bovens layer hens at the production peak(28 weeks) were used. The experiment done for 8 weeks in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments, 4 replicates and 8 birds in each replicate. Hens were fed with experimental diets containing 0, 50 and 100 mg iron nanooxide/kg of diet. The performance indices included egg production, egg weight, egg mass, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were daily recorded. The qualitative parameters included yolk color index, egg shape, yolk height index, Haugh unit, Eggshell thickness, eggshell strength, Specific gravity and relative weight of albumen, yolk and eggshell were determined at the end of each period(28 days). At the end of experiment, two birds per replicate were bleed and the blood biochemical parameters were studied.The results were revealed that the iron nano-oxide had no effect on performance indices. Total protein and enzyme activity of alanine aminotransferase were not affected by dietary INO.Dietary supplementation of INO decreased the serum concentration of cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL, and increased serum concentration of HDL, iron, zinc. The antibody titer against Newcastle disease were increased with increasing the levels of dietary INO. The yolk and serum concentration of MDA was increased by the addition of iron nanoparticles. Therefore, the addition of iron oxide supplementation can improve performance indices, some qualitative characteristics of egg and immune response and decrease serum lipid in laying hens.

The present study was conducted to determine the effects of olive extract leaf and olive oil on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass characteristics and intestinal morphology in Japanese quail. A total of 528 Japanese quail chicks 1-days-old were allocated to 6 treatments group with 4 replicates each containing 22 birds. This study was performed in a 2×3 factorial experiment with completely randomized design. Experimental treatments were included two levels of olive leaf extract (0, and 400 mg/kg) and three levels of olive oil (0, 2.5 and 5%). The results was revealed that the average daily weight gain were significantly increased in diet containing 5 % of olive oil compared to control group (P<0.05). The diet containing 2.5 percent olive oil decreased average daily feed intake as compare to control diet (P<0.05). The ileum  histomorphometry showed that crypt depth and height villus to crypt depth ratio in birds received 2.5 and 5% olive oil decreased and increased compared with control group, respectively (P<0.05). The results showed that the apparent digestibility of protein, ash, fat, phosphorus and energy in the control group was significantly lower than other treatments (P<0.05). The apparent digestibility of fiber was higher in the treatment containing 5% olive oil and the treatment containing 400 mg/kg diet of olive leaf extract (P <0.05). Diet containing 5% olive oil had the highest metabolizable energy compared to the other experimental groups (P <0.05). In conclusion, the findings of this study suggests that dietary inclusion of olive oil up to 5 percent had benefit effects on quail production indices.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of saffron petal extract on growth performance, carcass components, immune response and antioxidant status in broiler chicks. A total of 200 broiler chicks were distributed in 4 treatments including 5 replicates and 10 chicks per replicate. Dietary treatments were involved control group and the levels of 300, 500 and 700 milligrams of petal extract of saffron per kg diet (ppm). The broiler chicks were fed in three feeding periods including starter (0-10 days), grower (11-24 days), and finisher period (25-42 days) and as the same time the performance data including feed intake, body weight gain and FCR were recorded. For immune response, in the days of 14 and 35 days, sheep red blood cell were injected and the blood samples were gathered at 42 days. The data analysis were revealed that levels of 500 and 700 mg of hydroalcoholic extract of saffron increased body weight and reduced feed conversion ratio. The feed intake increased at level 500 and decreased at 700 levels as compared to control. Saffron petal extract at levels higher than 500 decreased the serum concentration of cholesterol, LDL blood and abdominal fat relative weight, and increased serum HDL and bursa of fabricus percentages compared to controls. Saffron petal hydroalcoholic extract increased the titer of secondary antibody against SRBC and antibody titer against Newcastle disease at 24 and 42 days at the levels of 500 and 700 mg Saffron petals’ extract, but the levels of extract did not affect the titer of IgM and IgG and the ratio of heterophil to lymphocyte. Saffron petal extract compared to control increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase enzymes and reduced the activity of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme and the plasma concentration of malondialdehyde.

To evaluate the effect of type (Rice Hull (RH) and Oat Hull (OH)), level (3 and 6 percent) and particle size (0.5 and 2 mm) of insoluble fiber on performance, production index, protein and energy performance, blood indices, lymphoeid tissue and humoral immunity of chickens, 360 day-old male broilers (Ross 308), were use in a completely randomized design with 9 treatment and 4 replicate with 10 birds each, for 42 days. In the 29-42 days, broilers fed 6 percent with 0.5 mm RH had higher (P≤0.05) average daily gain, daily feed intake and lower feed: gain than control group. For the 1-42 days, broilers fed OH had best production index (P≤0.05) than broilers fed the control diet. In this experiment, the effect of fiber, level and particle size was not significant effect on energy and protein performance, lymphoeid organ, humoral immunity and blood indices. Therefore, it is concluded that inclusion of 3 percent RH with 0.5 mm particle size to broiler diets may improve the growth performance and production index.

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of the specific egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) on reducing the defects of experimental aflatoxicosis in broilers.

In a completely randomized design, a total of 128 Ross 308 broiler chicks were used in 4 treatments, 4 replicates and 8 observations (chicks) for 42 days.  Treatments were: 1) control; 2) diet containing 1 ppm aflatoxin B1; 3) diet contaminated with 1 ppm aflatoxin B1 + 0.75 % of egg yolk containing IgY; 4) diet contaminated with 1 ppm aflatoxin B1 + 1.5 % of egg yolk containing IgY.

The results showed that the use of aflatoxin containing diet significantly increased the feed conversion ratio, serum cholesterol concentration, serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Also, experimental aflatoxicosis resulted in reduced feed intake, weight gain, serum total protein and albumin concentrations (p<0.05); as well as the liver histopathologic lesions. IgY containing egg yolk (0.75% and 1.5%) added to the contaminated ration improved feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio compared to treatment 2 (p<0.05). Compared to treatment 2, serum cholesterol concentration decreased while total protein concentration increased in treatments 3 and 4 (p<0.05). Liver tissue was approximately normal with mild effects on hepatocytes and mild cytoplasmic changes in chicks receiving treatments 3 and 4. 

It can be concluded that specific IgY is effective in reducing the defects of experimental aflatoxicosis as well as improving performance in broilers.

Fungi can grow in feed that maintained under normal temperature and high moisture condition. At the same condition, the fungi can produce mycotoxins in the feed. In poultry production, mycotoxicosis caused by key mycotoxins such as: Aflatoxin B1, Ochratoxin, T2toxin, Zearalenone and deoxynivalenol (DON, vomitoxin). Mycotoxins especially aflatoxin had undesirable influence on feed intake, body weight, feed conversion ratio and carcass characteristics. The Aflatoxin infected feed cause injuries on poultry's carcass especially liver and heart. Various aspects of the aflatoxicosis in poultry husbandry including effects on bird’s performance, digestion, metabolism, and organ function, metabolism of the toxin, and remnant of toxic residues to poultry products have been the subjects of several comprehensive reviews. The aflatoxin has vast economic losses in poultry industry via increase the mortality and reduces the growth performance. In order to reducing aflatoxin side effects, some ways were proposed such as inactivation of toxin, toxin adsorbent. Bentonite is the main toxin adsorbent. Bentonite can decrease the aflatoxin absorption from gut. Therefore this study was done to evaluate the effects of different levels of physical modified Nanostructure bentonite (PNB) on growth performance, carcass components and blood indices in broilers challenged by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1).

One hundred and sixty day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were bought from a great hatchery in South Khorasan, Iran. The birds were assigned to 20 experimental units with the same mean group body weight at initial experiment. The birds were reared for 35 days. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with 5 treatments, 4 replicates and 8 birds in each. Experimental groups consisted of: negative control (C), positive control (basal diet with aflatoxin B1) (AF) and three level 0.25, 0.50 and 0.75 % of Physical modified Nanostructure bentonite added to basal diet with aflatoxin B1(positive control). The aflatoxin were added to starter and grower diets at 500 ppm and to finisher diets at 1000 ppm. At 21 and 35 days of age, one bird from each replicate was randomly selected and bled and blood parameters involved the concentration of cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, HDL, total protein, and enzyme activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase were determined. One bird from each replicate of treatment were slaughtered and carcass components involved breast, thigh, abdominal fat, spleen, bursa of fabricius, and pancreas were weighed and the relative weight of organs were calculated. The data were analyzed by SAS software and general linear model (GLM) was used to analyze the data. The differences among means were determined by Tuckey's multiple range test.

The results showed that aflatoxin increased feed conversion ratio and reduced triglyceride as compared to control diet. The blood lipid was negatively influenced by infected aflatoxin diets in broilers. Supplementation of 0.25% Physical modified Nanostructure bentonite to the infected diet of broilers was significantly increased the feed intake, decreased the concentration of LDL (P<0.05). The lower relative weight of abdominal fat were observed in broilers fed diets contained aflatoxin and 0.25% Physical modified Nanostructure bentonite (PNB) (P<0.05). Birds fed infected diets and contained 0.75% PNB had higher triglyceride concentration compare to positive control. The ALT enzyme activity significantly increased in negative control treat compare to negative control and 0.50% PNB (P<0.05).In this research, the supplementation of Physical modified Nanostructure bentonite to broilers infected with aflatoxin reduced the undesirable effects of aflatoxin. As with previous research report that aflatoxin increased the feed conversion ratio and decreased the nutrient digestion and absorption. Inclusion of aflatoxin to broiler diets had undesirable effects on liver activity and liver injuries. The liver enzyme activities are indices to evaluate of liver function. The birds had higher liver enzyme activity, which may negatively affected by side effects of aflatoxin. The last literature were reported that the lower nutrient utilization might be a factor of the effects of the toxin on systemic metabolism rather than an effect on digestive functionality. Bentonite can adsorb the aflatoxin and reduce the side effects of them on broiler growth performance, digestive and liver function.

The result of this research showed that aflatoxin may decrease the performance parameters and addition of Physical modified Nanostructure bentonite reduced the negative effects of aflatoxin on performance and increased percentage of abdominal fat, therefore, the 0.5% Physical modified Nanostructure bentonite suggested to add in broiler diets contained aflatoxin.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of specific egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) against aflatoxin on reducing the defects of aflatoxin by adding to the drinking water of 192 day Ross 308 broiler chickens from 1 to 42 days old. The experiment was based on a completely randomized design with 6 treatments, 4 replications, and 8 observations (chicks). First egg yolks were immunized against aflatoxin by injecting aflatoxin-BSA conjugate to laying hens. Also extracted immunoglobulin with 1 and 0.5 percent /volume concentration was added to broilers' drinking water. The experimental treatments were: 1) control (without any additives); 2) ration contaminated with 1 mg kg-1 aflatoxin B1 (negative control treatment); 3) negative control + 0.5% (V/V) immunized yolk against AFB1, 4) negative control + 0.5% (V/V) unimmunized yolk against AFB1; 5) negative control + 1% (V/V) immunized yolk against AFB1 and 6) negative control + 1% (V/V) unimmunized yolk against AFB1. Using aflatoxin contaminated diet significantly increased serum cholesterol, and decreased serum total protein and albumin concentration (P<0.05). Also, histopathologic lesions observed in the liver. Adding 1 % (V/V) of immunized egg yolk to the drinking water (treatment 5) reduced serum cholesterol and increased total protein concentration compared to treatment 2 (P<0.05). The length and width of the villi and the villi surface area of chicks receiving treatment 5 were higher than treatment 2 (P<0.05). Liver tissue in chicken receiving treatment 3 and 5, was almost normal and few changes were observed in hepatocytes. The results indicate that specific IgY against AFB1 can be effective in reducing the defects of experimental aflatoxicosis as a detoxification agent.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of Hydroethanolic saffron petals’ extract (HSPE) on the performance, carcass characteristics and blood biochemical parameters of Japanese quails challenged with Aflatoxin B1. A total of 168 day-old quails were arranged into 28 experimental units with 7 treatments in a completely randomized design. The treatments included control, 3, 6 ppm aflatoxin B1, 3ppm aflatoxin � ppm HSPE, 3ppm aflatoxin  ppm HSPE, 6ppm aflatoxin � ppm HSPE and 6ppm aflatoxin  ppm HSPE. Each treatment included 4 replicates with 6 birds. Two quails from each pen were selected, slaughtered and carcass parts were weighed and their relative weights were calculated. The data were analyzed by the SAS software. The results revealed that chicks contaminated with aflatoxin had weight loss and reduced feed intake. However, addition of HSPE to their diet improved the feed intake and body weight of the sick birds. The lower FCR were observed in quails contaminated with aflatoxin. However, supplementation of Hydroethanolic saffron petals’ extract to their diet improved the FCR. The relative weight of burs of fabricus and liver had decreased and increased in the contaminated birds, respectively. Aflatoxin B1 affected the relative weight and length of intestine parts. Aflatoxin B1 decreased the concentration of cholesterol and triglyceride and increased liver enzyme activity. Therefore, supplementation of Hydroethanolic saffron petals’ extract to diets may improve the body weight, feed intake and FCR of quail contaminated with aflatoxin B1.

Introduction The protein sources in poultry nutrition are the most expensive parts of rations. Today, soybean meal is the major protein source that using in poultry nutrition. The cost of soybean meal is expensive and search to find new source of protein for poultry diet is important. Nigellasativa meal is a protein that could be used in poultry nutrition. The Nigella sativa or cumin seed meal has an acceptable percentage of crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract and metabolizable energy. The amino acid profile of nigella sativa meal is better than soybean meal with the exception for lysine. The percentage of lysine in soybean meal was higher than nigella sativa. Broilers that fed nigella sativa had better performance, and immune system. Therefore, the main objective of the present experiment was conducted to determine metabolizable energy of Nigella sativa or cumin seed meal by adult cockerels.
Materials and Methods The nigella sativa meal samples were provided from three industries. The major components of samples involved gross energy, crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract, ash, calcium, available phosphorous were analyzed by AOAC method. The AME of nigella sativa samples were determined by cockerels. A total of sixteen leghorn cockerels were used. The age of cockerels was 31 weeks old. This experiment was done in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments involved 0, 10, 20 and 30 percentage of nigella sativa with 4 replicates (1 cockerel each).The cockerels were adapted to new diets for 3 days, and then they were hunger for 24 hours. Cockerels were fed experimental diets for 72 hours and the excreta were collectedat whole of this period. The excreta and diets samples were analyzed for gross energy, crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract, ash, calcium, available phosphorous were analyzed by AOAC method. The AME of experimental diets were computed by the models of AME (Kcal/kg)= [Fi×GEf)-(E×GEe) ]/ F. Then, AME of experimental feed were calculated by the equations of AMEn(Kcal/kg)=AME of basal diet – [(AME of basal diet – AME of experimental diet)/ levels of replacement].Then, the digestibility and metabolizable energy of diets were determined. The predicted apparent metabolizable energy was corrected for nitrogen (AMEn) was calculated with suggested equations of Nascimento et al. (2007 and 2009).
Results and Discussion The cumin seed meal had 92.24 ± 0.723 % dry matter, 30.749 ± 1.151 % crude protein, 7.487 ± 1.129 % ether extract and 7.884 ± 0.813 % crude fiber, 52.871 ± 0.955 % neutral detergent fiber (NDF), 4.999 ± 0.227 % Ash. These findings were in agreement with results of previous researches. Abdo (2004) reported that Nigella sativa had 5.59, 86.8, 31.36, 12.27, 16.52, 7.61, 26.65, 1.16 and 0.7 % moisture, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber, ash, nitrogen free extract (NFE), calcium, and available phosphorous respectively. The apparent metabolizable energy (AME), and nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) forcumin seed meal were 2234.21 ± 89.596, and 2233.52 ± 89.594, kcal/kg, respectively. Abbas Ali et al., (2012) also reported that nigella sativa is an enrichment of minerals involved sodium, potassium and calcium. The true metabolizable energy (TME) and nitrogen-corrected true metabolizable energy of cumin seed meal were 2298.79 ± 76.254 and 2298.38 ± 76.25 kcal/kg, respectively. There are several equations for predicting the AMEn. Some of this equations that proposed by Nascimento et al., (2007 and 2009) are: 1)AMEn = 2707.71 5.863EE− 1.606aNDFom,(R2 = 0.81; RSD = 0.4847; P-value

To evaluate the effects of different of barberry pulp (BP) on production traits, blood parameters and immune system of broilers under heat stress, an experiment with 160 male Ross 308 chicks in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments, 4 replicates and 10 chicks each were done. A basal corn-soybean diet (Control) and three other treatments were diets contained the levels of 2.5, 5 and 7.5 percent barberry pulp treatment was fed. The experimental period was 42 days. The cyclic daily heat stress was done from 28 to 42 days. In this period, daily room temperature was increased from 21oC to 38±2°C during 10:00 until 17:00 hours. The treatments had no significant effects on body weight, feed conversion ratio, feed intake, carcass yield, heart, bursa of fabricius and liver. The relative weight of breasts and bursa of fabricus were increased when birds received 7.5 percent Barberry pulps (BP) compared to control. Serum concentration of cholesterol and HDL and liver enzymes (ALT and AST) and immune system were not affected by the levels of BP treatments. However the BP diets decreased the serum concentration of serum triglycerides and LDL. The blood concentration of glucose were increased by different levels of BP. The levels of 2.5% of BP increased the total protein as compared to control. Therefore, this findings were proposed since Barberry pulps had no any negative effects on production parameters and an improvement in the blood and immune system up to 7.5 %, it could be used in HS broilers.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of acidophilus bacterial isolates from intestine of Coracias Garrulus on performance and carcass characteristics parameters of Japanese quail. A total of 385 chicks were arranged into 35 experimental units with 7 treatments in a completely randomized design. The treatments were included control, spraying, drinking and sprying drinking of the acidophilus bacterial isolates, and spraying, drinking and sprying drinking of commercial probiotic. Two birds from each replicate were sacrificed and bleeding, then blood was gathered and plasma was extracted.The results were revealed that addition of acidophilus bacterial isolates and commercial probiotic did not affect feed intake at 47 d. The body weight was increased when birds received acidophilus bacterial isolates and commercial probiotic. The FCR were lower in birds received drinking probiotic and in spraying drinking acidophilus bacterial isolates treatments as compared to control. The carcass parameters did not affected by treatments. The results were revealed that addition of acidophilus bacterial isolates and commercial probiotic were decreased the serum cholesterol and LDL concentration of quail. The HDL and triglyceride were not affected by treatments. The protein concentration were increased in chicks received the acidophilus bacterial isolates and commercial probiotic. The antibody response against SRBC and IgM were increased in birds received acidophilus bacterial isolates or commercial probiotic. The jejuna histomorphmetry were showed that height of villi, crypt depth, and the ratios of height of villi to crypt depth were significantly changed.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of fruit powder Prosopis farcta on performance, carcass traits, blood biochemical parameters and antioxidant and immune system of broilers under heat stress. The number of 250 male Ross 308 one-day chicks in a completely randomized design with 5 treatments, 5 replicates per and 10 chicks each was used. The treatments were negative control (non-stress), positive control (stress) and three levels of 1, 3and 5 percent fruit powder Prosopis farcta. The heat stress schedule were done for last two weeks of experiment in a room temperature that was increased to 38 ±2°C during the for 6 hours per day. The results showed that the addition of dried fruit Prosopis farcta in broilers under stress significantly reduced body weight, food consumption, energy efficiency, and protein production index and feed conversion ratio was also significantly increased. The treatments had a significant effect on carcass yield, pancreas, gall bladder and liver. However, the relative weight of the breast, thigh and the relative length of the intestine markedly affected by treatments and increased compared with the control. Cholesterol, glucose, LDL, AST, ALT, LDH and MDA levels were significantly decreased with the addition of dried fruit Prosopis farcta under heat stress condition but the concentration of HDL, total protein and albumin did not significantly change. The antibody titer against SRBC was increased with increasing the levels of Prosopis farcta.