ABSTRACT

One hundred and sixty-two Lohmann Brown layers were used to evaluate the performance of layers fed graded levels of Barnbara groundnut offal diets. The experimental design was a completely randomized design (CRD). There were six treatments, each replicated three times with nine layers per replicate. The inclusion levels of Bambara groundnut offal in the layers diet were 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25% in diets 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, respectively. Parameters measured in the experiment were egg production, feed intake, egg weight, live weight at point of lay and at 6° month in lay, egg mass produced, feed conversion ratio, age at first egg and at 25% production, and cost benefit The diet containing 5% BGO was as good as the control (0% BGO) diet in all the parameters measured. Layers fed control and 5% BGO diets had significantly (P<0.05) higher live weight at point of lay (POL) than those fed 20% or 25% BGO diets. The diet of 25% BGO significantly (P< 0.05) increased age at I egg and at 25% egg production when compared to those fed control and 5% BGO diets. Layers fed 25% BGO diets had hen-day production that was significantly lower (P<0.05) than those fed other diets except those fed 20% BGO diets. The cost per crate of egg produced was significantly higher (P<0.05) with layers fed 25% BGO diets. In conclusion the inclusion of Bambara groundnut offal should not exceed 20% so as to maximize cost of production and make profits.