Blood Chemistry Profile, Intestinal Microbial Population and Gut Morphometric of Broiler Chickens Administered Turkey Berry (Solanum torvumSolanum torvum) Aqueous Extract

Abstract

The rising concerns regarding the safety, environmental impact, and potential resistance development associated with synthetic additives have motivated interest in natural alternatives such as Solanum torvum (Turkey berry). This study evaluated the effects of aqueous Solanum torvum extract as an additive on blood parameters, intestinal microbial population, and gut morphometrics of broiler chickens. Two hundred and forty (240) day-old broiler chicks were randomly distributed into four treatments in a Completely Randomized Design. The treatments consisted of 0, 10, 15, and 20 ml/L of aqueous extract administered via drinking water. Haematological parameters, serum biochemistry, intestinal microbial population, and gut morphometrics were evaluated using standard procedures and analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Results showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in haematological and serum biochemical parameters across treatments, with values falling within established physiological ranges for broiler chickens. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in intestinal microbial counts and certain gut morphometric parameters. Total bacterial count and total coliform count increased with higher inclusion levels, particularly in T4. Jejunal villus length, crypt depth, and epithelial thickness were significantly affected. The findings indicate that Solanum torvum aqueous extract modulates intestinal microbial population and influences gut morphology without adverse effects on physiological health.