Effect of Different Levels of Energy and Protein on Growth Performance and Blood Parameters of Vanaraja Chicken during Growing Phase

Abstract

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of varying levels of dietary crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) on the growth performance and blood parameters of Vanaraja chickens. Day-old chicks were randomly assigned to three groups (T1, T2, and T3), with 20 birds in each group. Experimental diets were formulated with three levels of ME (2400, 2600, and 2800 kcal ME/kg), each combined with three levels of CP (16%, 18%, and 20%). Growth performance indicators, including feed intake, body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio (FCR), were assessed up to 56 days, while blood parameters were analyzed on the final day of the growth phase. The findings reveal that birds in T3 (20% protein, 2800 kcal) demonstrated more favorable haematological and biochemical parameters, indicating efficient nutrient absorption and improved metabolic activity. Elevated RBC and WBC counts in this group suggest enhanced oxygen delivery and stronger immune responses. Additionally, higher serum protein and amino acid concentrations point toward improved protein synthesis and utilization. Despite a rise in cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL levels in T3. The results indicated that a diet containing 20% CP and 2800 kcal ME/kg significantly enhanced the growth performance of Vanaraja chickens.