Evaluation of the impact of a growth promoter on immune response and weight gain in white turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo domesticus)

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Fredy Rodrigo Güillín-Núñez
Jenny Marcela Martínez-Moreira
Víctor Danilo Montero-Silva
Jeniffer Patricia Chafla-Valverde

Abstract

The objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of a growth promoter on the immune response, measured through immunoglobulin concentration, and weight gain in white turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo domesticus). The study was conducted in Guaranda canton, Bolívar province, at 2640 masl, under Lower Montane Humid Forest conditions according to Holdridge’s life zone classification. A total of 80 one-day-old turkeys were used, distributed under a randomized complete block design with four treatments and four replications, considering 20 birds per treatment. The experimental groups included a control with water plus feed (T1) and three levels of growth promoter in drinking water: 1 ml/L (T2), 2 ml/L (T3), and 3 ml/L (T4). The trial lasted eight weeks, with weekly weight records of the animals. At the end, blood samples were collected to determine serum immunoglobulin concentrations using turbidimetry. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey’s test at 5% significance. The results showed significant differences in both weekly and total weight gain, with T4 achieving the highest average weight of 3907.5 g in the eighth week and an IgM concentration of 16.3 mg/dL, compared to 3463.3 g and 12.5 mg/dL in the control group. It is concluded that supplementation with growth promoters is a viable strategy to optimize productivity and immune health in white turkeys under local conditions.

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How to Cite
Güillín-Núñez, F., Martínez-Moreira, J., Montero-Silva, V., & Chafla-Valverde, J. (2025). Evaluation of the impact of a growth promoter on immune response and weight gain in white turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo domesticus). 593 Digital Publisher CEIT, 10(5), 538-548. https://doi.org/10.33386/593dp.2025.5.3542
Section
Investigaciones /estudios empíricos
Author Biographies

Fredy Rodrigo Güillín-Núñez, Universidad Estatal de Bolívar - Ecuador

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https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7256-0997

Professor at Bolívar State University for 32 years.

Professor at the 3 de Marzo Technological Institute for 15 years.

Master's degree in poultry production.

Advanced diploma in medicine and emergency management for dogs and cats.

Veterinary technician for the company Corpopralina.

Jenny Marcela Martínez-Moreira, Universidad Estatal de Bolívar - Ecuador

martinez.jpg

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2516-244X

Veterinarian and Zootechnician, Master's degree in Canine Clinical and Surgery, owner-manager of the "De Pelos" Veterinary Clinic and Canine Aesthetics, where she provides medical care and health checks for domestic animals; technical manager of the livestock supplies warehouse; professor at the State University of Bolívar, Veterinary Medicine program.

Víctor Danilo Montero-Silva, Universidad Estatal de Bolívar - Ecuador

monterosi.jpg

https://orcid.org/0009-0009-2137-534X

Víctor Danilo Montero Silva, holder of a Master’s degree in Sustainable Agricultural Production from UTA in Ambato, and a Specialist in Agricultural Production from UEB in Ambato, is a professor at the State University of Bolívar, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Natural Resources and the Environment, in the Veterinary Medicine program. His research focuses on the agricultural field, and he has participated in research projects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Jeniffer Patricia Chafla-Valverde, Universidad Estatal de Bolívar - Ecuador

chafla.jpg

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5075-6373

Veterinarian and Zootechnician – Bolívar State University, Master's degree in Veterinary Medicine with a specialization in Clinical Medicine and Surgery – Catholic University of Cuenca, Master's degree in Education with a specialization in Teaching and Research in Higher Education. She has published several high-impact articles, books, and research and outreach projects. She is a speaker and trainer at conferences. I am a person in continuous training and education both within the country and abroad. My main characteristics are: Leadership, responsibility, honesty, and versatility. Over the years, I have extensively developed my professional skills.

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