HAEMATOLOGICAL AND SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY OF RABBITS FED TOASTED ROSELLE (Hibiscus sabdariffa) SEED MEAL AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENT FOR TOASTED SOYBEANS

Abstract

The study evaluated the haematological and serum biochemistry of rabbits fed toasted roselle seed meal (TRSM) as a partial replacement for toasted soybean meal (TSM). Thirty mixed-breed grower rabbits were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments with TRSM inclusion levels of 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40%. The study lasted six

weeks, with three replicates per treatment. Blood samples were collected via the ear vein for haematological and serum biochemical analyses. Haematological parameters such as packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin (HGB), white blood cell count (WBC), and red blood cell count (RBC), as well as serum biochemistry parameters including total protein, albumin, glucose, and enzymes (AST, ALT, urea, creatinine), were measured. Results showed significant variations (P<0.05) in several parameters with increasing TRSM levels. PCV, HGB, WBC, and RBC were highest in the 10% TRSM group (T2) and lowest in the 30% TRSM group (T4). Serum total protein, albumin, and glucose concentrations were also influenced by TRSM inclusion. The 10% and 20% TRSM groups had the highest values for most of the measured parameters. Conversely, 30% and 40% TRSM inclusion led to a decline in serum total protein, albumin, and glucose concentrations, while ALT and urea levels increased. In conclusion, moderate levels (10%-20%) of TRSM in rabbit diets can support good health and performance. it is recommended that TRSM be included in grower rabbit diets at 20% level. Further studies on the long-term effects and anti-nutritional factors in TRSM are recommended for optimizing its use in rabbit nutrition.