Evaluation of the Effects of the Al-Jazeera Poultry Station’s Routine Use of Tetracycline and Robenidine on the Bursa of Fabricius and Duodenum in Broiler Chickens in Libya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61856/xdq49c23Keywords:
Broiler chickens; Tetracycline; Robenidine; Histology; Poultry management.Abstract
The widespread use of antimicrobial agents in poultry production raises concerns regarding their effects on intestinal integrity and immune function. Tetracycline is a commonly used broad-spectrum antibiotic, while robenidine is a widely applied anticoccidial in broiler management. Understanding their combined impact on key immunological and digestive organs is essential for flock health and productivity. This study evaluated the effects of the routine management protocol at Al-Jazeera Poultry Station in Libya, which involves tetracycline in drinking water and robenidine in feed, on the bursa of Fabricius and the duodenum in Ross broiler chickens. A total of 180 birds were assigned to three groups: Group 1 received water free of tetracycline and feed without anticoccidials; Group 2 received water free of tetracycline and feed containing robenidine (0.005 g/kg); Group 3 received water containing tetracycline (500 mg/0.5 kg body weight) and feed with robenidine according to the station’s standard program. Birds were sampled at 35, 41, and 48 days for macroscopic and histological assessment. Histological analysis revealed variations in tissue morphology across groups, reflecting the effects of the station’s existing management practices. These results provide insights into the impact of routine antimicrobial and anticoccidial use on critical immunological and digestive organs in broilers.
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