Effects of Opuntia ficus-indica on Growth Performance and Serum Parameters of Broiler Chicken in Algeria

Thanks to the wide diversity of soil and climate, Algeria has a substantial number of plants which can be used in animal feed. This work is a part of the barbaric fig cladodes evaluation, widely present in the Algerian rural landscape, as a broiler chicken feed supplement. The aims of this study are to measure the effects of Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) powder on the growth performances, serum parameters and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. The experiments were performed in a private poultry farm, located in the Chemini region. In this study, 120-Ross-308 days-old male chicks were monitored. They were divided into three groups according to the specific diet consumed (4 x 10 chicks by group). The group 1 was offered a commercial feed, while groups 2 and 3 received the same feed containing: 5% and 10% of OFI powder respectively. The OFI powder did not show any negative effect on the final body-weight, average daily gain and carcass characteristics. In contrast, it decreased (p < 0.05) some biochemical parameters in blood, like plasma glucose; uremia; cholesterol; and triglycerides. In conclusion, the OFI powder can be used as a potential additive in the commercial feed of broiler chickens which could efficiently reduce their cost sales in the Algerian market.