Effect of neem (Azadirachta indica) kernel-meal feeding on internal organsof layers

Neem -kernel-meal (NKM) was incorporated into a standard layer die at 0, 10 0, 150 and 200 g / kg levels replacing a part of soybean-meal and deoiled r ice bran and offered ad lib. to 72 White Leghorn layers (25 weeks, 50% egg production) allotted uniformly to 4 dietary treatments. Inclusion of NKM at higher levels significantly (P<0.01) reduced the feed intake and egg produ ction. Blood haemoglobin content, plasma calcium and alanine amino transfer ase activity were also significantly (P<0.01; P<0.05) reduced due to NKM fe eding at higher levels. Microscopic examination of internal organs after 12 weeks of experimental feeding indicated moderate congestion in intestine, liver, kidneys and spleen of hens fed NKM at 150 and 200 g / kg levels. Var ying degree of degenerative changes in hepatic parenchyma with cloudy swell ing and fatty infilteration was observed in hens fed 200 g / kg NKM. In ova ry and oviduct of laying hens fed NKM at 200 g / kg level, height of glandu lar epithelial lining was reduced with loss of cilia and atrophy of follicl es with devoid of ova. The results indicated the untoward effects of feedin g NKM at levels beyond 100 g / kg in the diet of laying hens.