ECONOMICS OF PRODUCTION AND CARCASS INDICES OF RABBIT FED CASSAVA PEEL MEAL BASED CONCENTRATES
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of varied inclusion levels of cassava peel meal (CPM) on the nutritional
composition, carcass traits, and economic viability of rabbit experimental diets. Five diets containing 0%,
12%, 24%, 36%, and 48% CPM were evaluated. Proximate analysis showed crude fibre content
increased from 4.96% in T1 (0% CPM) to 5.93% in T3 (24% CPM), indicating fibre enrichment, while
ether extract ranged from 3.16% (T2) to 4.87% (T4). Nitrogen-free extract was highest at 71.24% in T1
and lowest at 66.95% in T4. Economic analysis revealed feed cost per kilogramme of diet decreased
progressively from ₦480.00 (T1) to ₦431.00 (T5), while feed cost per kilogramme gain dropped markedly
from ₦2400.00 to ₦1240.40. Total revenue increased significantly from ₦10,134.00 to ₦14,565.00, and
the cost-benefit ratio improved from 1.25 to 1.84 across treatments. Carcass characteristics showed
significant increases in live and bled weights with CPM. Lung and intestine percentages increased with
CPM inclusion, suggesting physiological adaptation to higher fibre levels. Overall, CPM can be included
safely up to 48% in rabbit diets for improved carcass yield, and profitability, thus offering a sustainable
and cost-effective feed alternative for rabbit production.
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