Abstract
The whole dried Giant Snail meal (Theba pisana) was evaluated in broiler diets in terms of chemical composition and as a feedstuff for broiler diets. It was used in trial 1 as a feed additive at 0, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2%. In trial 2, DGSM was included in the growing and finishing diets for broilers at 0.0, 2.0, 4.0 and 6.0%. Moreover, DGSM was used in trial 3 as a calcium and phosphorus supplement at 1.5% of the diet to replace 24.5 and 33.3% of bone meal in the growing and finishing diets, respectively. In trial 4, 0.0, 2.0, 4.0 and 6.0% of the broiler grower diets was replaced by the same percentage of the DGSM.
The chemical composition of the DGSM revealed 95.8% DM, 15.2% CP, 1.68% EE, 22.2% CF, 47.8% ash and 8.91% NFE. The energy value was calculated as 4.80 MJ AME(n)/kg (based on chemical composition). The mineral contents of dried snail meal as a percentage of ash were 24.2% Ca, 0.94% P, 0.47% Na, 0.31% K and 16.2% Mg.
Performance of broilers in trial 1 was not affected significantly by DGSM when fed either at 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, or 0.2% as a feed additive. In trial 2, increasing DGSM above 2% of the diet decreased productive performance and dressing percentage. Performance of broilers in trial 3 fed DGSM at 1.5% in the diet as Ca and P supplements was lower than that of the control diet. Results of trial 4 indicated that DGSM up to 6% in grower diets for broiler chicks had no negative effects on weight gains, FCR and the utilization of protein and energy when fed for a shorter period during 7-28 d of age. Tibia ash, breaking strength and mineral contents were not affected by different DGSM supplements in trials 2 and 3. Chemical compositions of breast meat were not affected significantly by including different levels of DGSM in broiler diets as well as levels of plasma protein, glucose, GOT, and plasma Ca, P, Na, and K.
It was concluded that DGSM could be used in broiler diets up to 2% without adverse effects on performance, total edible parts and internal organs. However, more research is needed to optimize its use in poultry feeding and to eliminate its negative impact on the environment.