Optimum inclusion levels of Leucaena leucocephala pasture leaf-meal on growth, haematology and physiological performance of growing pigs.

This study was conducted to evaluate the optimum inclusion levels of Leucaena leucocephala leaf meal on growth, haematology, and physiological performance of pigs. A total of 16 grower pigs comprising of 12 females and 4 castrated males weighing an average of 13.5 kg were assigned into a completely randomized experimental layout, subjected to 4 inclusion levels of leaf meal (0, 50, 100, and 150 g/kg DM). Regression model and one-way ANOVA model were used to analyse the data. The total feed intake (TFI) and average weekly feed intake (AWFI) were significantly affected quadratically (P < 0.05) by increased inclusion levels, while tubular diameter (TD) and epithelial cell thickness (ECT) of the thyroid gland were not significantly (P > 0.05) affected quadratically. However, a significant difference due to inclusion levels on TD and ECT was established due to one-way ANOVA. Optimal inclusion levels of 70.5 g/kg for TFI and 70.0 g/kg for AWFI were significantly established with 99% regression coefficient. This implies that the quantity of Leucaena leaf meal intake continued increasing up to 70.50 g/kg inclusion levels before it started reducing; hence, the optimal inclusion levels of Leucaena for best feed intake is at 70.5 g/kg at which point all other parameters of growth, haematology, and physiological parameters were not significantly affected.