Dietary supplementation of moringa leaf powder improves the productive and reproductive performance of Pekin duck

Duck production is often considered advantageous compared to other poultry species due to its lower management requirements. However, intensive duck farming necessitates balanced nutrition and additional feed supplements to maximize profitability. Moringa leaves, rich in high-quality proteins, vitamins, minerals, and various bioactive compounds, have been proven to enhance the production and reproduction performance of poultry. The present study was conducted to elucidate the beneficial effect of Moringa leaf powder (MLP) on the productive and reproductive parameters of Pekin ducks. The experiment involved supplementing the basal ration of Pekin ducks with different percentages of MLP (0%, 2%, 4%, and 6%). The results indicated that 4% MLP supplementation improved production and reproduction parameters most effectively. This supplementation increased mature body weight and live weight gain by lowering the feed conversion ratio (FCR), enhancing the dressing percentage, and reducing triglycerides and cholesterol levels in blood lipids without adversely affecting other blood parameters. Notably, the ducks fed with 4% MLP-supplemented diet reached sexual maturity 7-10 days earlier than other MLP-treated or control groups. Additionally, MLP supplementation improved the fertility and hatchability of ducks. Remarkably, drakes fed with 4% MLP-supplemented diet showed increased semen volume and better sperm quality parameters, including total motility, progressive motility, viability, and concentration, with reduced sperm abnormalities compared to other MLP-treated and control groups. Therefore, it is suggested that 4% MLP can be supplemented in duck rations to enhance the productive and reproductive profiles.