INFLUENCE OF AGE AND BODY WEIGHT ON SPLEEN PARAMETERS IN WHITE PEKIN DUCKS

Abstract

A study was conducted using 45 White Pekin ducks from day old to 155 days to ascertain the influence of age and body weight on the spleen of ducks. A multiple regression fit was applied to the data. Simple as well as partial correlation coefficient between the different factors were calculated and tested for significance. The size and weight of spleen increased with age and body weight of birds. But body weight had a greater influence on the development of spleen. Thus heavier birds of a particular age will tend to have heavier spleen. A well developed spleen is a representative of a strong immune system. Hence, it can be concluded thaf by scientific management practices when the body weight of the birds would increase, the spleen might attain its maximum immunological functions at an early age. This will help to meet the demands of the body in development of systemic immunity, thus improving the flock health

Keywords

• duck
• influence of age and bodyweight
• spleen development