Parámetros zootécnicos en pollos camperos a pastoreo suplementados con tres forrajeras proteínicas.

Abstract

The trial was carried out at the Experimental Farm “Río Suma” of the Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí, located in El Carmen, Ecuador. The general objective of this research was to evaluate the zootechnical parameters in free-range chickens grazing supplemented with three protein forages. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with four treatments: Tithonia diversifolia, Pueraria phaseoloides, Gliricidia sepium and a control group without supplementation. The variables evaluated included average chick weight, feed intake and feed conversion, as well as the cost-benefit analysis of each treatment. The results showed that supplementation with protein forages did not have a significant impact on feed intake or final weight of the broilers, although Pueraria phaseoloides stood out for presenting the best benefit/cost ratio, reaching a value of $1.10. This suggests that, although protein forages may not drastically influence zootechnical performance, their use may be profitable, especially in the case of Pueraria phaseoloides. In conclusion, the research provides valuable information on the feasibility of using protein forages in the feeding of free-range chickens, highlighting the importance of considering both zootechnical parameters and economic analysis in decision making in poultry production.