Research Article
Reproductive Performance of Laying Hens Fed Processed Cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) Diets: Influence of Processing Method and Inclusion Level During Early Lay
Abdulmumin Alhassan Hassan*
,
Grace Takpejewho Iyeghe-Erakpotobor,
Mohammed Abdulrashid,
Alhassan Musa Hassan,
Abba Ibrahim Bukar,
Oluremi Martha Daudu,
Fauziyya Mahmoud Tahir,
Ibrahim Adamu Usman
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
65-71
Received:
17 April 2026
Accepted:
7 May 2026
Published:
8 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijast.20261003.11
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Abstract: This study evaluated the processing methods and inclusion levels of cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) on the reproductive performance of laying hens during early laying phase (19–52 weeks). A total of 160 Shika Brown layers were assigned to seven dietary treatments in a 2×3+1 factorial arrangement consisting two processing methods (raw sundried and boiled sundried), three inclusion levels (25%, 50% and 75%) and a control (0%) in a completely randomized design. Parameters measured included age at first egg, body weight at first lay, first egg weight, egg mass, egg production rate, mortality and survivability. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and means separated at P<0.05. Result revealed significant interaction effects were observed for most reproductive parameters. Birds fed 50% boiled cocoyam had the highest body weight at first lay (1.65 kg), egg mass (285.65 g) and egg production (5.45 eggs/day), with lowest mortality (0.005%). In contrast, higher raw inclusion delayed sexual maturity and reduced egg production performance. The improved performance observed in boiled cocoyam diets is attributed to the reduction of antinutritional factors and enhanced nutrient utilization, which supports optimal endocrine function and ovarian activity. It can be concluded that inclusion of boiled cocoyam at 50% optimized reproductive performance of laying hens during early lay and can serve as viable alternative energy source in poultry diets.
Abstract: This study evaluated the processing methods and inclusion levels of cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) on the reproductive performance of laying hens during early laying phase (19–52 weeks). A total of 160 Shika Brown layers were assigned to seven dietary treatments in a 2×3+1 factorial arrangement consisting two processing methods (raw sundried an...
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