EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS SQUASH MEAL (Cucurbita maxima) ON

THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS YIELD OF BROILER

CHICKEN

AARON B. CABLILAN
CIARA GIL L. JACALNE
JONATHAN O. MORALES
JEMRIN KAYE D. BOMBAY

Republic of the Philippines

TARLAC AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
Camiling, Tarlac
JUNE 2022
 i

Republic of the Philippines

TARLAC AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
Camiling, Tarlac

THESIS MANUSCRIPT

Undergraduate Thesis of : AARON B. CABLILAN

For the Degree of
CIARA GIL L. JACALNE
JONATHAN O. MORALES
JEMRIN KAYE D. BOMBAY
: BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE
MAJOR IN ANIMAL SCIENCE

Title : EFFECT OF SQUASH MEAL (Cucurbita maxima)

ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE,
CARCASS YIELD ON BROILER CHICKEN

THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

VON MARK B. YUZON, B.Sc. GIANNA BIANCA P. MANALO, B. Sc

Member Member

JOHN ARRIS E. RAYO, B. Sc.

Adviser

APPROVED:

EDMAR N. FRAQUERA, Ph.D.

Dean, College of Agriculture and Forestry

MARIA ELENA T. CAGUIOA, Ph.D.

Director, Department of Research and Development
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
 ii

The researcher is very much thankful to the people who had supported and helped

him, and shared their time for the successful completion of the study.

First to the Almighty God, for giving him the strength to manage his time in this

study, the wisdom and blessing to accomplish the study;

Sincerest thanks are extended to Mr. John Arris E. Rayo for help and advices in

completion of this study.

To his beloved mother, Mrs. Eduviges B. Cablilan, his brother Rodny B. Cablilan,

his wife Marinela Gay C. Guerrero, and to his son Genlio Zachary B. Cablilan, for their

moral, financial, emotional, spiritual support and sacrifices.

AARON

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
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The researcher would like to express his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who

provided their generous support and assistance to complete this study.

First and foremost, to God Almighty, the greatest, for without his graces and

blessings, this study would not have been possible.

To his parents Mr. Elpidio Morales Sr., Mrs. Josephine Morales for their constant

guidance, financial support, sacrifices and unconditional love that inspire him to pursue

and accomplish the study.

JONATHAN

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
 iv

With the deepest gratitude and appreciation, the author humbly give thanks to the

people who patiently helped her for the successful completion of her study.

To Good Lord up above, for giving the strength and power of mind, protection

and skills.

To her parents Gil Jacalne and Editha Jacalne also to husband Patrick John De

Vera, for their unending love and support for providing the needs financially and morally,

for their patience and understanding. To her daughter who gives her strength and

motivation.

A simple gratitude is also given to her friends, for the companionship and moral

support; she would also like to give thanks to her group mates Aaron Cablilan and

Jonathan Morales for their support physically and financially.

And especially to her adviser Mr. John Arris E. Rayo for giving tips and guidance

for the whole research study.

CIARA GIL

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The researcher would like to acknowledge and give her warmest thanks to the
 v

people who patiently helped her in making her research study.

To her adviser Mr. John Arris E. Rayo for his support and guidance to her entire

research study.

To all the friends who stood by her side in both times of trouble and happiness

during her study.

To her beloved parents, Mr. Aljims C. Bombay and Mrs. Karina D. Bombay and

to her brother Aljims D. Bombay Jr. and to the man who truly love her Mr. Samonte for

their sacrifices throughout her life , for the spiritual, moral and financial support, for their

perseverance, compassion and consideration while she was pursuing her study; and

Above all, to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ for their immeasurable love and

for all the blessings they have showered upon her. With all her heart and soul she thanks

him for guiding her during her research study.

To all of them, with deep respect, love and admiration, this piece of work is heartily

dedicated.

JEMRIN KAYE
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Aaron B. Cablilan was born on October 20, 1998 at Camiling, Tarlac. He is the

eldest among two siblings of the late Mr. Virgilio B. Cablilan and Mrs. Eduviges B.
 vi

Cablilan. He attained Pre-school and Elementary at Brgy. Pugo Cecilio Santa Ignacia,

Tarlac graduated in 2010, he took Secondary education at Nambalan High School

graduated in 2014 and he was taking Bachelor of Agriculture major in Animal Science at

Tarlac Agricultural University.

While he was young he was aspiring to be an exceptional basketball player. He

joined inter-barangay leagues. He wants to pursue all his dreams and to become

successful someday.

AARON B. CABLILAN
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
Major in Animal Science

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

The author of this training was named Ciara Gil L. Jacalne; she was born at

Paniqui, Tarlac on May 06, 1998. The youngest daughter of Mr. Gil Jacalne and Mrs.
 vii

Editha Jacalne

Ciara Gil finished her elementary education at Ramos Central Elementary School

year 2010 in Ramos, Tarlac. She finished her high school education at Ramos National

High School in 2014. And now, a 4th year college student at Tarlac Agricultural

University taking up Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Major in Animal Science.

The author was also a mother of Cianne Patrice J. De Vera, a 2 year old child.

CIARA GIL L. JACALNE

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
Major in Animal Science

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

The author, Jonathan Orcino Morales, was born on July 9, 1999 in Brgy.

Botbotones, Santa Ignacia, Tarlac. He’s the fifth son of Elpidio Morales Sr. and

Josephine Morales.

He currently resides at Brgy. Botbotones, Santa Ignacia, Tarlac and finished his
 viii

primary education at Pilpila Elementary School and his secondary education was at the

Pilpila National High School.

He is currently taking up Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Animal

Science at the Tarlac Agricultural University.

JONATHAN O. MORALES
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
Major in Animal Science

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

The author was born on the 19 th of September year 1998 taking up Bachelor of

Science in Agriculture major in Animal Science at Tarlac Agricultural University. She is

currently residing in Brgy. Poblacion Sur Mayantoc, Tarlac. She is the daughter of Mr.

Aljims Corpuz Bombay and Karina Federiso Dela Cruz. She is the eldest of two siblings.

She took her Elementary School years at Mayantoc Central Elementary School and took
 ix

her High School years at Mayantoc Academy.

She is also a dancer and do her part-time job as an orchestra dancer in several

group of orchestra band like Combo Max (TAU Orchestra band), Rihanna’s Band, Jjam

Orchestra, and etc. she do a part-time job her to be able to sustain her need at school.

She is an ambitious woman who desire to become a successful someday and she

believe that failing is not the reason to give up on her dreams, when she fails that means

there is something wrong but you must fix it and keep going on.

JEMRIN KAYE D. BOMBAY

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
Major in Animal Science
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRELIMINARIES PAGE

Title Page

Approval Sheet i

Acknowledgement ii

Biographical Sketch vi

Table of Content x

List of Tables xii

List of Appendix Table xiii

List of Appendix Figures xv

Abstract xvi

Introduction 1

Background of the Study 2

Significant of the Study 3

Objectives of the Study 3

Scope and Delimitation of the Study 3

Definition of Terms 4

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES 5

METHODOLOGY 9

Treatment and Experimental Design 9

Brooding Management 9

Preparation of Cages 9

Preparation of Squash Meal 10

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Feeds and Feeding Management 10

Water Management 10

Slaughtering and Carcass Yield Evaluation 11

Data to be Gathered 11

Growth Performance 11

Carcass Yield 12

Data Analysis 12

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 13

Initial Weight, Final Weight, Gain in Weight 13

Feed Consumption and Feed Efficiency 14

Live Weight and Carcass Yield 15

Breast, Wings, Legs, Thigh Weight 16

Cost and Return Analysis 18

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION 20

Conclusion 21

Recommendation 21

LITERATURE CITED 22

Appendices 24

Appendix A 25

Appendix B 37
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LIST OF TABLES

TABLE PAGE

1 Average of initial weight, final and gain in weight of birds in 14

kilogram as affected by squash meal

2 Average of feed consumption and feed conversion efficiency on 12

birds as affected by squash meal

3 Average live weight and carcass weight 16

4 Average weight of breast, wings, legs and thigh 17

5 Cost and return analysis in raising broiler using squash meal 19

LIST OF APPENDIX TABLES

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APPENDIX PAGE
TABLE

1 Average initial weight of birds in kilogram 25

2 Analysis of Variance on the average initial weight of birds 25

in grams

3 Average final weight of broiler in kilograms 26

4 Analysis of Variance on the Average final weight of broiler 26

in kilograms

5 Average gain weight of broilers in kilograms 27

6 Average feed consumption per bird in kilogram 27

7 Analysis of Variance on the average gain in weight of 28

broilers in kilograms

8 Analysis of Variance on the average feed consumption of 28

broilers in kilograms

9 Average feed conversion efficiency of birds 29

10 Analysis of Variance on the average feed conversion of 29

birds

11 Average of live weight of broilers before slaughtering 30

12 Analysis of Variance of the average live weight of broilers 30

before slaughtering

13 Average carcass yield of broiler in kilogram 31

14 Average carcass yield of broiler in kilogram 31

15 Average of dress weight of broiler in kilogram 32

16 Analysis of Variance of dress weight of broiler in kilogram 32

17 Average weight of wing in kilogram 33

18 Analysis of Variance of average weight of wings in 33

kilograms
 xiv

19 Average weight of breast in kilogram 34

20 Analysis of Variance of average weight of breast in 34

kilogram

21 Average weight of legs in kilogram 35

22 Analysis of Variance of weight of legs in kilogram 35

23 Average weight of thigh in kilogram 36

24 Analysis of Variance of average weight of thigh in 36

kilogram

LIST OF APPENDIX FIGURE

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APPENDIX PAGE
FIGURE
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1 Layout of the experiment 37

2 Cage 38

3 Disinfectant 38

4 Brooding Cages 39

5 Cleaning the Cages 39

6 Initial Weight 40

7 Final Weight 40

8 Purchasing of Treatment 41

9 Purchasing of Treatment from Local Farmer 41

10 Preparing the Treatment 42

11 Drying of Treatment 42

12 Sun Dried Squash Meal 43

13 The Researchers removing the Intestine 43

14 Without Head and Intestines 44

15 Chicken Breast 44

16 Chicken Legs 45

17 Chicken Wings 45

18 Ocular Inspection 46
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ABSTRACT

The study conducted to determine the effect of squash meal on the growth

performance of broiler.

A total of one hundred twenty (120) chicks were reared for thirty-five (35) days.

The birds were randomly divided into four (4) treatments and replicated three (3) times

with ten (10) birds per replication using Complete Randomized Design (CRD)

The treatments used were:

Treatment 1- Pure commercial feeds

Treatment 2- 5%squash meal + commercial feeds

Treatment 3- 10% squash meal + commercial feeds

Treatment 4- 15% squash meal + commercial feeds

Result of the study revealed that no significant differences existed among broilers

in terms of final weight, gain in weight, feed conversion efficiency and feed

consumption.

For the carcass yield is to determine the live weight, weight of carcass without

intestine, without head and feet, weight of legs, thigh, wings and breast using different

treatments.

The result of the study showed that the supplementation of squash meal has no

significant among the different treatments.

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INTRODUCTION

Broiler production is the most popular enterprise in the Philippines as well as in

the other countries. It demands a little amount of time for meat to be processed. It is

important today due to the fast growing population to increase the much needed supply of

meat to fill in the supply of protein, the nutritional needs of children, people deficient in

protein foods.

In maintaining a good production, antimicrobial medicines are used by the raisers

which can enhance the growth performance of the birds and protect the animals from

diseases.

Based on the number of animals, poultry represent the largest domestic animal

stock in the world, and poultry meat was the fastest growing component of global meat

production in the early 21st century. Poultry meat and eggs provide affordable high-

quality protein. Poultry farming, especially on a small scale, is renewable and efficient

and can provide a ready source of income and nutrition.

Animals need adequate amounts of all the necessary nutrients in order for them to

stay healthy and productive and basically these required nutrients vary in the quantity

depending on its species, age, productive state, environmental condition and lastly to its

disease status. Aviagen (2009) stated that successful broiler production depends upon

supplying the birds with feed of the highest achievable quality, in terms of ingredients

used, processing procedures applied and finally the form in which the feed is presented to

the birds.

Squashes contain so many good things to chickens including iron, magnesium,

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niacin, phosphorus, thiamine, vitamins, copper, manganese, and potassium, all of which

have their own individual health benefits. Squashes are also really high in dietary fiber,

promoting healthy digestive tracts and gastrointestinal systems in your flock

There are some vitamins in squash, the highest amount one being vitamin C and

you also get vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and K. The important minerals are iron,

magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and zinc and all of these was beneficial

for you and for your chicken.

Background of the Study

In the Philippines, being an agricultural country has many vegetable products and

the assurances of rejected farm products are not avoided. It is from the view that rejected

farm products can be used into more useful material such as feed for animals and one of

which is the squash

The squash (Cucurbita Maxima) is an important source of food and the food is a

good source of several nutrients such as Vitamins A, Vitamins C, Dietary fiber, niacin,

folic acid, and iron. The fruit contains some of the highest amount of beta carotene. The

study was conducted to determine the growth performance, carcass yield and production

efficiency of broilers feed with squash meal. It is also rich in manganese it helps to boost

the strength of bone and helps body’s ability to process fats and carbohydrates it also has

a natural deworming which is good for the broiler chicken.

Significance of the Study

This study benefit students, farmers, and entrepreneurs as it will provide

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knowledge about the effect of Squash Meal in the growth performance of a broiler

chicken that was used in research or in a profitable business.

Objectives of the Study

The study conducted to determine the response of squash meal on the growth

performance of broilers.

Furthermore, the study also aims:

To determine the effect of squash meal on the growth performance of broiler chicken in

terms of weight gain efficiency.

To determine the best amount of squash meal that can give the best result on the growth

performance of Broilers.

To determine the profitability of using squash meal on Broilers.

To determine the effect of inclusion of squash meal on the carcass yield of Broiler.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

The study only focuses on determining the effect of squash meal on the growth

performance and carcass yield of broiler chicken.

The study was conducted from March-April 2022 at Brgy. Pugo Cecilio, Sta.

Ignacia, Tarlac.

Definition of Terms

Ad libitum Feeding management in which animals are fed without restriction.

Squash (kalabasa)  kalabasa is round (occasionally, the top and bottom may be
 4

flattened), the thick hard skin is green (sometimes grayish) with specks of yellow and

yellow green. Inside, the flesh is yellow-orange. The flesh cradles the hollow core where

the seeds are loosely stored.

Broiler Chicken Is a type of chicken that is bred and raised specifically for meat

production.

Brooding It is the process of providing supplemental heat to broiler chicks from hatching

up to the time they have grown sufficient feathers to control their own body temperature.

Carcass Yield Refers to the weight of the Carcass after slaughtering.

Feed Edible materials which are consumed by animals and contributed energy and

nutrients to the animal’s diet.

Live Weight Weight of chicken at slaughter.

Nutrients A substance that provides nourishment essential for the maintenance of life.

Supplement It is a feed ingredients or mixture of feed ingredients intended to supply the

deficiencies in a ration or improve the nutritional balance of a total mixture.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

As reported by Patagao (2021) The present study investigated the utilization of

squash (Cucurbita maxima L.) meal as a feed supplement. Based on the result of the

study, it revealed that the inclusion of ten (10) to twelve (12) percent squash meal as feed

supplement consistently shown significant performance in terms of body weight gain in

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weight, feed conversion ratio, dressing percentage, and return on investment (ROI)

throughout the study. Furthermore, squash meal inclusion economically reduced the

production cost and boosted income, thus realizing higher profits. The utilization of

squash meal as a feed supplement also helps add the value of squash for vegetable

contract growers in the province of Abra and returning an agricultural waste into cash.

Girma M. et.al (2021) A study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of feeding

neem (Azadirachta indica) and pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) seed as natural feed

additive for broiler chicks on dry matter intake, mortality, meat quality and blood

parameters of broilers. One hundred ninety two day-old chicks were born and 500 chicks

were distributed to four treatments with three replications in a completely randomized

design. Dry matter intake during the entire experimental period was 106, 111, 114 and

117 g/ bird for 0, 1, 1NS, 1PS and 1NS-PS respectively, and it was significantly higher

(p<0.05) for 1NS -PS. Serum cholesterol and white blood cell decreased but total blood

protein was significantly increased among treatment. Crude protein content of breast and

thigh meat was significantly high for 1 NS-PS. It is concluded that neem and pumpkin

seed can be a good feed additive for broiler production aside its nutritional importance.

The nutritional composition of pumpkins is variable and depends on several

factors, among which are the growing conditions, the species, and the part of the plant or

fruit. In a study by Kim et al., in which three species of pumpkin (Cucurbita

pepo, Cucurbita moschata, and Cucurbita maxima) were evaluated, they reported

that Cucurbita maxima contains significantly more carbohydrates, fat, and fiber,

while Cucurbita pepo and Cucurbita moschata have higher protein content. Dorantes et

al. reported 8% protein, 3% fat, and 49% neutral detergent fiber in the dry peel and pulp
 6

residue of Cucurbita argyrosperma. In this report, the low protein and fat content is due

to the fact that the pumpkin did not contain the seeds, in which these nutrients are

concentrated. On the other hand, Zhang et al. reported that the dried pulp of Cucurbita

moschata contains 44% sugars and 9% pectin.

The study of Ubaque et.al (2015) A total of 144, Cobb Avian 48, genetic line

broilers, reared up to 42 days of age were distributed in a split plot experimental design

with 4 treatments and 3 replicates, each formed by 12 chickens, 6 of each sex, in order to

evaluate the substitution of corn at 0, 50, 75 y 100% by integral pumpkin flour (HIZ), as

an alternative energy, protein and natural pigments source in the performance of the birds

during the growing and finishing phases. The best results were obtained with the ration

50% replacement, which compared with other rations with inclusions of HIZ, got the

highest averages in live weight, carcass weight, feed conversion and efficiency, without

significant differences (p<0.05) to control treatment in carcass yield, but high differences

in the low abdominal fat content and high grade on skin pigmentation, resulting benefited

both aspects with the treatment 50% HIZ included. It valued to according to the

regression of the growth curve of the birds that will have been required only 3 to 5 days

more of chick placement to reach the commercial weight.

In order to use pumpkin seed meal (PSM) in broiler chicken feeding in Cuba, as

partial substitute of soybean cake and imported plant oil, 120 Cobb-500chicks, of one day

of age were used. During 49 d, they were allotted according to completely randomized

design into two treatments and three repetitions. The treatments consisted of diets, with

levels of inclusion of 0 and 10 % of pumpkin seed meal. No significant differences were

observed between treatments the viability (95 %), final liveweight (2268 and 2265
 7

g/bird), feed intake (4837 y 4831 g/bird), feed conversion (2.13), carcass weight (1634

and 1625 g/bird), breast yield (23.73 and 23.52 %) and weight of thigh + leg (511 and

519 g/bird). The excessive abdominal fat diminished with the inclusion of 10 % pumpkin

seed meal. No differences were observed in the sensorial quality of the meat from the

breast and thigh. The results obtained suggested the utilization up to 10 % of pumpkin

seed meal in broiler chicken diets, not changing the productive performance and the

sensorial quality of the meat.

The bioactivity of the pumpkin seeds also helps to reduce abdominal fat and

serum levels of harmful lipids, while increasing the serum levels of beneficial lipids. It

was reported in the study of Umesiobi (2009) that the carcass quality and haematological

parameters of the livestock and poultry fed rations appropriately fortified with organic

compounds, such as the pumpkin seed meal (PSM), enhance their growth and

reproductive performance. Hence, pumpkin meals have a positive impact on the general

performance of poultry, as exemplified by increased feed conversion ratio, growth rate

and egg production (egg quality and quantity) traits, and are also capable of playing an

essential role in poultry health.

Phytogenic feed additive has been reported to enhance performance, feed

conversion ratio, carcass meat safety and quality in animals. Tabari et al (2016)

concluded that use of diet supplemented with pumpkin seed oil improved body weight

and increased feed consumption in broiler chickens as a result of the positive effect of

pumpkin seed oil on the intestine conditions leading to better digestion, absorption and

utilization of nutrients and also due to the positive role of pumpkin seed oil on keeping a

balanced microflora in the digestive tract. And evidently, phytogenic has beneficial
 8

effects on nutrient utilization possibly by stimulating digestive enzymes and improves

gastrointestinal morphology.

According to Valdez-Arjona et.al (2019) without additional processing, millions

of tons of vegetable waste are created each year, resulting in pollution and dangers to

human health. Vegetable waste that is properly handled can be used as a source of feed

for animals, lowering the cost of feeding. The nutritional value of pumpkin waste, as well

as the antioxidants, pigments, and polysaccharides found in it, might help improve the

quality of meat, milk, and eggs.

METHODOLOGY

Treatment and Experimental Design

The study was conducted using Completely Randomized Design (CRD). One

hundred twenty (120) day-old broiler chicks w used in the study. There were four

treatments to be used and replicated three times. Each replication was composed of ten

(10) broiler chicks, the treatment and experimental layout was given below.

T1- control (Pure Commercial Feeds)

T2- 5% Squash meal + Commercial feeds

T3- 10% Squash meal + Commercial feeds

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T4- 15% Squash meal + Commercial feeds

Brooding Management

Pre-heating the brooding cage 2 hours upon the arrival of the chicks was done to

maintain the temperature inside the brooding cage. An incandescent lamp was installed

following the recommendation 1-watt per chick. Cardboard boxes was used as flooring

material for the chicks during brooding. The chicks was fed with Booster feeds that will

provide them nutrients they need to boost their growth and build resistance against

diseases and stress during brooding. A two 3ft by 10ft cage was used. After two weeks of

brooding, the chicks were distributed into each treatment and replication.

Preparation of Cages

The brooder cage was thoroughly cleaned and disinfected as well as all the

equipment or tools that were used like waterers, and feeders to protect the bird from

parasites and diseases. Electric wire was installed in the middle of the cages to provide

artificial heat to the chicks during the brooding stage. Sack was enclosed around the

cages to protect the chicks from cold temperature at early stages of their life. The cage

will follow the space requirements of 1 sqft per bird.

Preparation of Squash Meal

The squash was collected from the local farmers. The squash was being washed,

cut and removed the seeds inside of it and grated. The grated squash was sun dried, then

weighed and divided into 3 different levels.

Feeding Management
 10

Feces and other feed leftovers was removed from the waterers and feeders. Soap

and water was used to clean it. Vitamins are supplied to the broilers three times a week to

supplement the nutrients that the feeds can’t provide. And their feeds was being managed

and following the recommended feed intake. Chick booster was given to them on the first

two weeks. And two weeks thereafter until the last week of feeding period, broiler starter

were given to the birds.

Water Management

Clean water was available at all times, and the drinkers should be cleansed and

disinfect. Vitamins was supplied to the broilers three times a week to supplement the

nutrients that the feeds can’t provide.

Slaughtering and Carcass Yield Evaluation

At 35 days of age, three (3) randomly selected birds was slaughtered per cage to

evaluate the carcass and cut-up yield. The birds was fasted for 12 hours with water given

restricted. They were re-weighed and slaughtered. During slaughtering, bring the

chickens head down and with a sharp knife slice the below jaw line and cut the jugular

veins. This will allow the blood to drain, and when the blood starts draining the chicken

will immediately pass out and dies. Allow up to 1-2 minutes of draining the blood. Then

adding of hot water to the slaughtered chicken for easy dressing. process of dressing the

slaughtered chicken by plucking of the feathers, picking of the tiny feathers for clean

dressing. With a sharp knife cutting into the abdomen of dressed chicken to remove the

internal organs. The feet, head and neck was removed. The carcass was weighted and
 11

butchered. The cut up parts was weighted, tallied and analyzed.

Data Gathered

Growth Performance

Initial Weight (g) - refers to the weight of the birds at the start of the study.

Final weight (kg) - refers to the weight of the bird at the end of study.

Gain in weight (kg) - the gain weight of the birds were determined by deducting the

initial weight from the final weight of the birds at the end of the experimental period.

GW= Final Weight – Initial Weight

Feed Consumption (kg) - all the feeds are consumed throughout the study.

Feed Consumption = Feed Offered – Left Over

Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE) - the measure of efficiency of the birds to convert

1kg. Of feed mass to the body weight. This will be determined by dividing the total feed

consumption by the total weight in gain.

Average Feed Consumption

FCE= x 100
Average Gain∈Weight
Carcass Yield

Live Weight (kg) – refers to the weight of the bird after 12 hours fasting.

Carcass Yield (kg) – refers to the weight of the Carcass after slaughtering

Breast Weight – this refers to the weight of the breast after separating from the legs

Legs Weight – this refers to the weight of legs after separating from the breast

Thigh Weight – this refers to weight of thigh after separating from the breast

Wings Weight - this refers to weight of wings after separating from the body
 12

Data Analysis

All the data gathered was recorded, tabulated, and was subjected to statistical

analysis using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) of the Completely Randomized

Design (CRD). Least Significant Difference (LSD) test was used to the treatments having

statistically significant or highly significant results.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Initial Weight, Final Weight, Gain in Weight

The data on the initial weight of birds before the supplementation of squash meal

is indicated in Table 1.

The analysis of variance showed that there was no significant differences among

the treatments on the initial weight of broilers before the supplementation of squash meal.

This indicates that all birds were similar in initial weight due to the same type of feed

given and kind of environment received during the brooding period of 14 days.

Table 1 presents the final weight at day 35, the ANOVA table shown that there is

a no significant differences among the treatment and table 1 present the mean of each

treatment.
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The data showed that birds fed with 150g of squash meal and 50g of squash meal

has an average final weight of 0.96 kg.. This was followed by birds fed with pure

commercial feeds which had an average final weight of 0.92 kg.. Likewise, birds fed with

100g have the average final weight of 0.90 kg.

Table 1 presents the data of Gain in Weight. ANOVA resulted in no significant

differences among treatments means obtained from the study. This means it was not

affected by squash meal.

Treatment 2, 5% and treatment 4, 15% has the same mean 0.96 kg followed by

controlled has 0.92 kg and treatment 3 which is 10% has a mean of 0.90 kg.

These results contradicting to the study of (Patagao (2021) ) that his study was

consistently shown significant performance in terms of body weight gain in weight, feed

conversion ratio, dressing percentage, and return on investment (ROI) throughout the

study. With the inclusion of 10 to 12 percent of squash meal as feed supplement.

Table 1. Average of initial weight, final and gain in weight of birds in kilogram as
affected by squash meal
Initial Weight Final Weight (kg) Gain in Weight
(kg) (kg)
Mean
Treatment
T1- Control 0.43 1.35 0.92
T2- 5% of Squash 0.40 1.36 0.96
Meal
T3- 10% of Squash 0.42 1.31 0.90
Meal
T4- 15% of Squash 0.42 1.37 0.96
Meal
CV% 3.91% 7.10% 2.59%

ns- non-significant

Feed Consumption and Feed Efficiency

 14

Table 2 presents the average mean of feed consumed by the broilers. In treatment

3 has a mean of 1.14 kg followed by treatment 4 1.13kg, and from the group of control

and treatment 2 has a mean of feed consumed 1.12 kg.

However, the analysis of variance revealed no significant difference among all

treatment and using squash meal has no effect on the feed consumed.

It also shows that the average mean weight of the feed conversion efficiency

ranged from 1.13kg up to 1.27kg. In treatment 3 which has a mean of 1.27 followed by

the group of control which has 1.21kg, next is treatment 4 which has 1.19 and treatment

2 which has a mean of 1.11 kg

Similarly the analysis of variance shows that there was no significant differences

among all treatment and there were no effect on the feed conversion efficiency.

Table 2. Average of feed consumption and feed conversion efficiency on birds as affected
by squash meal
Feed Consumption (kg) FCE (kg)
Treatment Mean
Control 1.12 1.22
5% of Squash Meal 1.12 1.17
10% of Squash Meal 1.14 1.27
15% of Squash Meal 1.13 1.18
CV% 1.13% 3.89%
ns- non-significant

Live Weight and Carcass Weight

The data in the live weight and in carcass weight were as follow:

The Analysis of variance disclosed non-significant difference among the

treatments used on the live weight of birds before slaughtering.

Treatment 4 has the mean of 1.32 kg followed by the treatment 2 5% has a mean

of 1.31kg and control or treatment 1 and treatment 3 with 10% which has a mean of 1.30
 15

kg.

The table 3 presents the average carcass weight of broiler feed with varying

amounts of squash meal. Carcass weight was taken after the bleeding. Head and internal

organs were removed. It is shown that the use of different percentage of squash meal had

no effect on the carcass weight.

The Analysis of variance revealed no-significant differences among treatments.

The carcass mean weight was ranged from 0.98kg, 0.98kg kg. , 0.97kg kg., and 0.96 kg.

Table 3. Average live weight and carcass weight

Live Weight (kg) Carcass Weight (kg)
Mean
Treatment
T1- Control 1.30 0.97
T2- 5% of Squash Meal 1.31 0.98
T3- 10% of Squash Meal 1.32 0.98
T4- 15% of Squash Meal 1.31 0.96
CV% 1.92% 2.46%
ns- non-significant

Breast Weight, Wings Weight, Legs Weight, Thigh Weight

The analysis of variance revealed that supplementation of different treatments of

squash meal did not enhance the muscle build-up of birds.

It was indicated that birds fed with 10% of squash meal in their feed ration has an

average of 1.01 kg. breast yield, the birds fed with 5% of squash meal in their food ration

has an average of 0.99 kg. followed by pure commercial feeds with an average of 0.98

kg. and birds fed with 15% of treatment had an average breast yield of 0.94kg.

The data implied that there was no significant effect on the supplementation of

squash meal on the breast yield of broilers. As indicated in the analysis of variance. all
 16

breast obtained from birds of the different treatments supplemented with or without

treatment were similar.

The treatment 1 control wing weight has 0.55 kg. followed by treatment 4 15% of

0.53 kg., treatment 2 5% has a mean of 0. 51 kg. and the 0.50 kg. in treatment 3 10%.

The Analysis of variance shown that there is no-significant differences among

treatment.

Table 4 presents the different average leg mean. Treatment 1, Treatment 2 and

Treatment 3 had the same means 0.76 kg and Treatment 4 had 0.72 kg.

The Analysis of Variance revealed no-significant differences among treatment

and the leg weight were not affected by squash meal.

The average data of thigh weight and ranged from 0.61 kg to 0.65 kg.

The Analysis of Variance shown that there is no-significant differences among

treatments and had no effect on the carcass cut-ups of the broilers. Treatment 1 control

and treatment 2 had the same mean 0.61 kg followed by treatment 4 0.65 kg and

treatment 3 10% has a mean of 0.65 kg.

Table 4. Average weight of breast, wings, legs and thigh

Breast Wings Weight Legs Thigh
Weight (kg) (kg) Weight (kg) Weight (kg)
Me
an
Treatment
T1- Control 0.98 0.55 0.76 0.61
T2- 5% of Squash 0.99 0.51 0.76 0.61
Meal
T3- 10% of Squash 1.01 0.50 0.76 0.65
Meal
T4- 15% of Squash 0.94 0.53 0.72 0.64
Meal
CV% 2.97% 8.98% 2.53% 5.12%
ns- non-significant
 17

Cost and Return Analysis

Table 5 presents the cost and return analysis of using different levels of treatment.

For the cost of production treatment 4 has amount of expenses 5,249.0. This was

followed by treatment 3, 2, and 1 in the amount of 5,094.00, 4938.00, and 4,784.00

respectively.

However, treatment 4 obtained the gross income of 6,576.00. This was followed

by Treatment 2 and 3 in the amount of 6,528.00 and 6,512.00 respectively. Treatment 1

had the lowest gross income in the amount of 6,480.00.

With regards to the net income, Treatment 1 gave amount with 1,696.00, followed

by Treatment 2 (1,590.00), Treatment 3 (1,416.00) and Treatment 4 has amount of net

income of 1,327.00.

When it comes to return of investment (ROI), Treatment 1 gave 35.5% followed

by Treatment 2 with 32.2%, Treatment 3 27.8% and Treatment 4 with 25.3%.

Table 5. Cost and return analysis in raising broiler using squash meal

ITEM Treatment 1 Treatment 2 Treatment 3 Treatment 4

Commercial 5% Squash 10% Squash 15% Squash
Feeds meal meal meal
Stocks 750 750 750 750
Booster, kg 1050 1050 1050 1050
Starter, kg 2186 2076 1967 1858
Vitamins 150 150 150 150
Treatment - 264 529 793
Housing & 400 400 400 400
Equipment
Labor 188 188 188 188
Electricity 60 60 60 60
Total Cost of 4784 4938 5094 5249
Production
Gross Income 6480 6528 6512 6576
Net Income 1696 1590 1418 1327
 18

Return of 35.5% 32.2% 27.8% 25.3%

Investment
(ROI)
Based on current price;
Stock - 25.00/head
Booster - 35.00/kg
Starter - 31.00/kg
Vitamins - 100.00/pack
Treatment - 75/kg
Labor - 47.00/hour
Electricity/Water - 2.00/chick/month
Live weight - 160.00/kg

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

This study was conducted to determine the effect of the squash meal on the

growth performance, feed intake, and feed efficiency of broiler, and to determine the

economy of using feedstuff in raising broiler. The study used 120 pieces day old broiler

chicks and was first brooded for two weeks.

After two weeks, the birds were divided at random into four groups given with the

following levels of squash meal; Treatment 1- control (pure feeds); Treatment 2- 50g

squash meal, Treatment 3- 100g squash meal; Treatment 4- 150g of squash meal.

This study used the completely randomized design in the lay-out of the period of

the study.
 19

Results of the study showed that the effect of squash meal has no significant

effect on the final weight, gain in weight, feed consumption and feed conversion

efficiency of broiler as revealed in the analysis of variance.

However, the study on the carcass yield was conducted to determine the effect of

squash meal on the weight of the birds.

A total of 36 birds in the study were laid-out in CRD. There were four (4)

treatments and three (3) times replication with three (3) sample birds per replication.

Conclusion
Based on the result of the study, the following conclusions were drawn.

The different levels of squash meal do not significally enhance the growth performance,

feed intake and feed efficiency of broiler.

Different amount of treatment did not affect the initial final weight, gain in weight, feed

consumption and feed conversion efficiency of broiler.

Greater return was attained in raising broiler at treatment 1 or control with 35.5% ROI.

The supplementation of squash meal do not improve the carcass yield of broiler in terms

of dress yield, carcass without head and feet, legs, wings, thigh and breast yield.

Recommendation

Proper cleanliness, ventilation, and spacing of the broilers will make it easier for
 20

them to adapt the environment and grow faster. Using of dried squash meal did not affect

the growth performance, feed intake, feed efficiency and carcass yield of broilers. It is

preferable to utilize pure feeds rather than adding dried squash meal to the feeds or

further increase the treatment percentage to achieve high improvement in the growth

performance of chicken.

LITERATURE CITED

PATAGAO, T. G. (2021). Utilization of Squash Meal (Cucurbita maxima L.) as Feed

Supplement for Broiler’s. IAMURE International Journal of Ecology and
Conservation, 35(1), 1-1.

Girma, M., Ameha, N., Zeryehun, T., Mathewos, Z., & Tadesse, N. (2021). Effects of Neem
(Azadirachta indica) and Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) Seeds and their Combination as Feed
Additive on Intake, Muscle chemical composition, Sensory Quality and Hematology of
Broilers. Ethiopian Veterinary Journal, 25(1), 96-109

Ubaque, C. C., Orozco, L. V., Ortiz, S., Piedad Valdés, M., & Vallejo, F. A. (2015).
REPLACING CORN MEAL BY BUTTERNUT SQUASH FLOUR IN BROILER
CHICKENS NUTRITION. Revista UDCA Actualidad & Divulgación Científica, 18(1), 137-
146.

Martínez, Y., Valdivié, M., Martínez, O., Estarrón, M., & Córdova, J. (2010). Utilization of
pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) seed in broiler chicken diets. Cuban Journal of Agricultural
Science, 44(4), 387-392.
 21

Blando, C. G. (2015). GROWTH AND SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS OF BROILERS

FED WITH SQUASH SEED MEAL (Cucurbita maxima). QSU Research Journal, 4(1), 1-1.

Valdez-Arjona, L. P., & Ramírez-Mella, M. (2019). Pumpkin waste as livestock feed: Impact

on nutrition and animal health and on quality of meat, milk, and egg. Animals, 9(10), 769.

Tabari, M.A., Ghazvinian, K.H., Irani, M., & Molaei, R. (2016). Effect of dietary

supplementation of nettle 116 root extract and pumpkin seed oil on production traits

and intestinal microflora in broiler chickens. Bulgary Journal Veterinary Medicine,

19, 108-116.

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/9/10/769/htm

https://cs-tf.com/can-chickens-eat-squash/

https://henraising.com/can-chickens-eat-yellow-squash/#:~:text=All%20parts%20of%20the
%20squash,their%20own%20individual%20health%20benefits
22
 23

APPENDICES
 24

APPENDIX A
Data and ANOVA TABLES

Appendix Table 1. Average intial weight of birds in kilogram

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN

Treatment 1 0.43 0.43 0.43 1.29 0.43

CONTROL

Treatment 2 0.46 0.36 0.39 1.21 0.40

5%

Treatment 3 0.42 0.40 0.43 1.25 0.42

10%

Treatment 4 0.44 0.39 0.42 1.25 0.42

15%

Table 2. Analysis of Variance on the average initial weight of birds in grams.

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance
5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0011 0.0004 0.41 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0070 0.0009

Total 11 0.0081
C.V = 7.10%
Ns= non-significant
 25

Appendix Table 3. Average final weight of broiler in kilograms

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 1.34 1.35 1.36 4.05 1.35
CONTROL

Treatment 2 1.38 1.35 1.35 4.07 1.36

5%
Treatment 3 1.35 1.24 1.35 3.94 1.31
10%

Treatment 4 1.35 1.38 1.39 4.12 1.37

15%

Appendix Table 4. Analysis of Variance on the Average final weight of broiler in

kilograms

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0060 0.0020 1.63 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0097 0.0012

Total 11 0.0157
C.V = 2.59%
Ns= non-significant
 26

Appendix Table 5. Average gain weight of broilers in kilograms

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 0.91 0.92 0.94 2.77 0.92
CONTROL

Treatment 2 0.93 0.99 0.97 2.89 0.96

5%

Treatment 3 0.93 0.84 0.92 2.69 0.90

10%

Treatment 4 0.91 0.99 0.97 2.87 0.96

15%

Appendix Table 6. Analysis of Variance on the average gain in weight of broilers in

kilograms

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0086 0.0029 2.16 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0107 0.0013 - -

Total 11 0.0193 - -

C.V = 3.91%
ns= non-significant
 27

Appendix Table 7. Average feed consumption per bird in kilogram

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 1.11 1.14 1.12 3.37 1.12
CONTROL

Treatment 2 1.11 1.12 1.13 3.36 1.12

5%
Treatment 3 1.13 1.14 1.15 3.42 1.14
10%
Treatment 4 1.11 1.14 1.15 3.4 1.13
15%

Appendix Table 8. Analysis of Variance on the average feed consumption of broilers in

kilograms

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0008 0.003 1.17 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0017 0.0002 - -

Total 11 0.0025 - -

C.V = 1.13%
ns= non-significant
 28

Appendix Table 9. Average feed conversion efficiency of birds

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 1.22 1.23 1.20 3.65 1.21
CONTROL

Treatment 2 1.20 1.14 1.20 3.54 1.18

5%
Treatment 3 1.22 1.36 1.25 3.83 1.27
10%

Treatment 4 1.24 1.15 1.18 3.57 1.19

15%

Appendix Table 10. Analysis of Variance on the average feed conversion of birds

Tab. F
Source of Variance Df SS MS F-value
5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0170 0.0057 2.52 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0179 0.0022 - -

Total 11 0.0349 - -

C.V = 3.89%
ns= non-significant
 29

Appendix Table 11. Average of live weight of broilers before slaughtering

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 1.32 1.27 1.32 3.91 1.30
CONTROL
Treatment 2 5% 1.33 1.27 1.32 3.91 1.31

Treatment 3 1.31 1.30 1.30 3.91 1.30

10%

Treatment 4 1.30 1.31 1.33 3.94 1.32

15%

Appendix Table 12. Analysis of Variance of the average live weight of broilers before
slaughtering

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0003 0.0001 0.18 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0051 0.0006

Total 11 0.0054

CV = 1.92%
ns- not sifnificant
 30

Appendix 13. Average carcass yield of broiler in kilogram

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 0.99 0.95 0.98 2.92 0.97
CONTROL
Treatment 2 5% 0.99 0.95 0.99 2.93 0.98

Treatment 3 0.96 1.03 0.98 2.97 0.99

10%

Treatment 4 0.96 0.95 0.97 2.88 0.96

15%

Appendix 14. Analysis of Variance of the average carcass yield of broiler in kilogram

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0011 0.0004 0.63 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0196 0.0006

Total 11 0.0057

C.V = 2.46%
ns = non-significant
 31

Appendix 15. Average of dress weight of broiler in kilogram

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 2.98 2.86 2.93 8.77 2.92
CONTROL
Treatment 2 5% 2.96 2.84 2.96 8.76 2.92

Treatment 3 2.89 3.09 2.95 8.93 2.98

10%
Treatment 4 2.89 2.85 2.92 8.66 2.89
15%

Appendix 16. Analysis of Variance of dress weight of broiler in kilogram

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0125 0.0042 0.82 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0404 0.0050

Total 11 0.0529

C.V = 2.43%
ns = non-significant
 32

Appendix 17. Average weight of wing in kilogram

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 0.65 0.50 0.51 1.66 0.55
CONTROL
Treatment 2 5% 0.50 0.49 0.55 1.54 0.51

Treatment 3 0.48 0.52 0.51 1.51 0.50

10%

Treatment 4 0.55 0.53 0.51 1.59 0.53

15%

Appendix 18. Analysis of Variance of average weight of wings in kilograms

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0043 0.0014 0.64 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0178 0.0022

Total 11 0.0221

C.V = 8.98%
ns = non-significant
 33

Appendix 19. Average weight of breast in kilogram

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 0.96 0.98 1.00 2.94 0.98
CONTROL
Treatment 2 5% 1.00 0.97 0.99 2.96 0.99

Treatment 3 0.97 1.07 1.00 3.04 1.01

10%

Treatment 4 0.95 0.93 0.95 2.83 0.94

15%

Appendix 20. Analysis of Variance of average weight of breast in kilogram

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0075 0.0025 2.94 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0068 0.0009

Total 11 0.0143

C.V = 2.97%
ns = non-significant
 34

Appendix 21. Average weight of legs in kilogram

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 0.76 0.77 0.74 2.27 0.76
CONTROL

Treatment 2 0.77 0.76 0.75 2.28 0.76

5%

Treatment 3 0.74 0.79 0.75 2.28 0.76

10%

Treatment 4 0.72 0.70 0.74 2.16 0.72

15%

Appendix 22. Analysis of Variance of weight of legs in kilogram

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0034 0.0011 3.19 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0029 0.0004

Total 11 0.0063

C.V = 2.53%
ns = non-significant
 35

Appendix 23. Average weight of thigh in kilogram

TREATMENT 1 2 3 TOTAL MEAN
Treatment 1 0.65 0.56 0.62 1.83 0.61
CONTROL

Treatment 2 5% 0.64 0.57 0.61 1.82 0.61

Treatment 3 0.64 0.66 0.64 1.94 0.65

10%

Treatment 4 0.61 0.64 0.66 1.91 0.64

15%

Appendix 24. Analysis of Variance of average weight of thigh in kilogram

Tab. F
Source of
Df SS MS F-value
Variance 5% 1%

Treatments 3 0.0035 0.0012 1.14 ns 4.07 7.59

Errors 8 0.0082 0.0010

Total 11 0.0117

C.V = 5.12%
ns = non-significant
 36

T4R2 T3R2 T2R1

T3R3
T1R2 T2R2

T2R3 T1R1 T3R1

T4R3 T4R1 T1R3

APPENDIX B

Figure 1. Experimental Lay-Out

 37

Figure 2. Cage

Figure 3. Disinfectant
 38

Figure 4. Brooding Stage

Figure 5. Cleaning the cages

 39

Figure 6. Initial Weight

Figure 7.
Final Weight
 40

Figure 8.
Purchasing of treatment

Figure 9.
Purchasing of treatment from local farmer
 41

Figure10. Preparing the treatment

 42

Figure 11. Drying of treatment

Figure 12. Sundried squash meal

 43

Figure 13. The researchers removing the intestines

Figure 14. Without head and intestines

 44

Figure 15. Chicken Breast

Figure
16.Chicken Legs
 45

Figure 17. Chicken Wings

Figure 18-. Ocular Inspection