Impact of Azadirachta indica Leaves on Coccidia and Growth Performance of Broiler Chickens Reared at the Ecology Research Center, Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

In Côte d’Ivoire, poultry farming is an essential part of animal production system. However, this sector faces health issues that hinder its development. This study aims to evaluate the antiparasitic efficacy of Azadirachta indica leaf powder against coccidia and its impact on the growth performance of broiler chickens. To this end, an experimental trial involving 248 Cobb 500 chicks was conducted from 1 June to 6 July 2023 at the experimental farm of the Abidjan Ecology Research Center. These animals were divided into eight groups of 31 subjects at 14 days of age. Group R0 received no treatment. Group R1 received a commercial anticoccidial. Groups R2 to R7 received neem leaf powder at doses of 1% or 2%, incorporated into the feed (R2, R6), drinking water (R3, R5), or both (R4, R7). Parasite load (OPG) was assessed by weekly coproscopy (Mac Master method). Growth parameters (feed and water intake, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, carcass yield, mortality) were monitored until day 49. Data were analyzed using Tukey's HSD test and the Chi² test. The mean parasite load of R0 (235.5±205 OPG) was significantly higher than that of all other groups (P < 0.001). No significant difference was observed between the load of R1 (40±29.5 OPG) and that of the neem-treated groups (values ranging from 29.25±15.7 to 41±38.5 OPG) (P > 0.05). None of the growth parameters (average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, carcass yield) nor water or feed intake differed significantly between neem-treated groups and control groups (R0 and R1) (P > 0.05). The highest mortality rate was recorded in group R0 (13.33%). Neem leaf powder, at doses up to 2%, has comparable efficacy to a chemical anticoccidial for controlling coccidia in broiler chickens, with no deleterious effect on their growth performance. It constitutes a promising phytotherapeutic alternative.