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Effects of Ganoderma lucidum Powder on the Growth Performance, Immune Organ Weights, Cecal Microbiology, Serum Immunoglobulins, and Tibia Minerals of Broiler Chickens

Summary

Researchers tested whether powdered Ganoderma lucidum mushroom could replace antibiotic growth promoters in chicken farming. The study found that adding 0.2% mushroom powder to chicken feed improved weight gain and feed efficiency similar to antibiotics, while also promoting beneficial gut bacteria. The mushroom powder was safe and did not cause any disease, making it a promising natural alternative to antibiotics in poultry production.

Background

Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) have been widely used in poultry production since the 1950s, but their continuous use raises concerns about antibiotic resistance and ecological dysbiosis. Ganoderma lucidum is a medicinal fungus rich in secondary metabolites including triterpenes, saponins, steroids, alkaloids, and β-glucans with nutraceutical properties.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary Ganoderma lucidum powder (GLP) supplementation at different doses on growth performance, immune organ weights, cecal microbiology, serum immunoglobulins, and tibia minerals in broiler chickens as a potential alternative to AGPs.

Results

Dietary 0.2% GLP supplementation increased body weight and decreased feed conversion ratio compared to control. Both GLP and AGP groups had increased lactic acid bacteria abundance and thymus relative weight. The AGP group showed decreased serum IgM concentration, while 0.3% GLP increased tibia ash content.

Conclusion

Dietary 0.2% Ganoderma lucidum powder supplementation is recommended as a natural growth promoter to replace antibiotic growth promoters in broiler production, demonstrating improved feed efficiency and beneficial modulation of intestinal microbiology without adverse immune effects.
  • Published in:Veterinary Sciences,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39729015, DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11120675
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