Effect of vitamins, probiotics and protein on semen traits in post-molt male broiler breeders

The study aimed to investigate the comparative effect of vitamins E and C, probiotics, lower than normal protein level and the combination of these treatments in male broiler breeders after Zn-induced molting. One hundred and eighty birds at 65 weeks of age were divided into six groups (five replicates per group) in a completely randomized block design. Birds were induced to molt by mixing zinc oxide in feed at the rate of 3000 mg/kg of feed. Upon completion of molting, birds were fed different supplements. One group was kept as a control, while the other groups were fed: vitamin E (100 IU/kg), vitamin C (500 IU/kg), probiotics (50 mg/L of water), lower dietary protein level (14%) or the combination of these treatments. Results revealed that vitamins (E and C) supplementation increased (P < 0.05) semen volume, however, sperm motility and egg fertility were significantly higher only in vitamin E supplemented group compared to control. The dead sperm percentage decreased (P < 0.05) in vitamin C fed group, whereas, sperm concentration did not differ (P > 0.05) between the control and treated groups. The results validate the key role of antioxidant vitamins in male broiler breeders’ fertility after Zn-induced molting.