Vol. 9, Issue 4, Part B (2024)

Author(s): Murali P, P Vasanthakumar, A Natarajan, A Balasubramaniam and T Vasanthakumar

Abstract: The aim of this study was to assess the carcass characteristics of Aseel chickens raised under varying rearing systems in farmers' field. Seventy-two Aseel birds (from 18 farms) were selected @ 24 birds from each system viz. intensive, semi-intensive, and backyard, respectively. Samples of feed were collected from each farm to analyse their proximate composition, as well as the levels of copper and zinc. The selected birds were weighed, slaughtered, and bone and liver samples were taken for analysis of copper and zinc contents using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. The crude protein content of feed offered to birds reared under intensive, semi- intensive and backyard system of rearing were 17.24%, 12.71% and 9.22%, respectively. The dressing percentage and liver weight were significantly (p<0.01) higher in intensive system, compared to semi- intensive and backyard system of rearing. There was no significant (p≥0.05) difference in weight of giblets and cut up parts yield reared under different systems. The present study revealed that the feeding of concentrate feed with high protein, fat, copper and zinc significantly improved the dressing percentage and liver weight in Aseel birds grown under intensive system as compared to semi-intensive and backyard system at farmer’s field.