Effects of Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium on production performance,egg quality,serum biochemical,immune indexes,and intestinal microbes of laying hens
The experiment aimed to investigate the effects of Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium on the production performance,egg quality,serum biochemical indexes,immune indexes,and intestinal microbes of laying hens.A total of four hundred 38-week-old Hyline Brown laying hens were randomly divided into four groups,with five replicates per group and 20 hens per replicate.Group 1(control group)were fed with a basic diet.Group 2 received a basic diet supplemented with 200 g/t of Bacillus subtilis.Group 3 received a basic diet supplemented with 200 g/t of Enterococcus faecium.Group 4 received a basic diet supplemented with a composite probiotic consisting of 100 g/t of Bacillus subtilis and 100 g/t of Enterococcus faecium.The experimental period lasted for 56 days.The results showed that compared to the control group,the egg production rate of all the experimental groups increased(P<0.05),and the mortality rate and feed to egg ratio decreased(P<0.05).The eggshell thickness and yolk color increased(P<0.05).The total protein and globulin levels in the serum of laying hens in all the experimental groups increased(P<0.05),and the levels of immunoglobulin G,immunoglobulin M,and γ-interferon in the serum all increased(P<0.05).The number of lactic acid bacteria in the cecum chyme of the laying hens increased(P<0.05),while the number of Escherichia coli and Salmonella decreased(P<0.05).The study suggests that Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium can improve the production performance of laying hens,maintain intestinal health,and enhance serum biochemical and immune indexes.