Effect of Azolla pinnata meal supplementation on growth performance and jejunal histomorphology of Philippine mallard ducks ( Anas platyrhynchos )

Abstract This study evaluated the growth performance and histological profile of Philippine Mallard ducks ( Anas platyrhynchos ) fed diets containing Azolla meal ( Azolla pinnata ). A total of 150 ducks were assigned to five dietary treatments containing 0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% Azolla meal for six weeks. There were no statistical differences (P > 0.05) among treatments in body weight, weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed conversion efficiency (FCE), slaughter weight, villi surface area, and jejunal crypt depth. These findings indicate that Azolla meal can be incorporated at levels up to 12% without adverse effects on growth or intestinal morphology. Although differences were not statistically significant, a 6% inclusion level yielded numerically improved FCR and FCE and resulted in higher income when feed cost was considered; therefore, a 6% inclusion may be recommended for practical duck production.