Variations in the metabolizable energy of raw and autoclaved pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) in chickens and guinea fowl

Abstract

Raw and autoclaved pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) seeds, substituted at 40% from corn, were studied. The chemical composition and apparent metabolizable energy (AME) of the seeds were obtained in growing chickens and adult guinea fowl using a semi-wet force feeding technique. The values obtained were similar in both species (3200 kcal). The autoclave treatment significantly, but differently, improved AME depending on the species (2167 kcal in chicks, 870 kcal in guinea fowl). Force fed guinea fowl did not digest raw seeds well. Therefore, this AME measuring method is not adequate for this species.