Impact of Zea Mays L. Maize Sprout and Corchorus Olitorious Jute Leaf on Stress Biomarkers in Two Breeds of Chickens

This study investigated the impact of the inclusion of Zea mays L. (maize sprout) and Corchorus olitorius (jute leaf) into broiler chicken diets, evaluating their effects on stress biomarkers and ²²growth performance in Arbor Acre and Ross 308 breeds. Ninety-six broiler chicks were assigned to eight groups in a 2×2×2 factorial design, comprising two breeds of broiler (Arbor Acre and Ross 308), two additives (maize Sprout and jute leaf), and two levels (0% and 2.5%) each of maize sprout and jute leaf inclusion. The broilers were raised under ambient temperature of 32°C-37°C in a stocking density of 12 birds per 1.5m2 (Feeder and drinker included). Growth parameters such as Body weight (BW) and linear measurement: Body length (BL), Body girth (BG), Drumstick length (DL), Thigh length (TL), Shank length (SL), Keel length (KL), and Wing length (WL) were measured. Stress biomarkers including Heterophil to Lymphocyte (H: L) ratio, corticosterone, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Malondialdehyde (MDA), and Glutathione Peroxidase (GSH-Px) were measured. Results indicated that Ross 308 consistently outperformed Arbor Acre in body weight and linear body traits. However, the inclusion of jute leaf and maize sprout had no significant (p>0.05) effect on stress biomarkers in either breed. This suggests that while Ross 308 shows better growth potential, neither jute leaf nor maize sprout significantly altered oxidative or stress markers at the tested inclusion levels. Further studies are recommended to explore higher dosages and long-term implications.