Evaluación de harina de Theobroma cacao (Cascarilla de cacao) para la alimentación de cuyes en la etapa de crecimiento - engorde

Abstract

In the Academic United and Minor Species Research of Animal Science Faculty ESPOCH, the effect of the use of cocoa husk flour (5, 10, 15 %) was evaluated, in the feeding of guinea pigs. It worked under a completely randomized desingn (DCA) in combinational arrangement of two factors, with 5 repetitions, the size of the experimental unit was two animals per pool. The best production results were obtained with the inclusion of 15% of cocoa husk flour witch a final weight of 1,22 kg; with a feed conversion of 5,77; carcass weight of 0,96 kg and a performance of 81,65%.

The analysis of the interaction between cocoa husk flour and sex of the animals did not show significant differences (P> 0,005). The higher profitability on stage evaluated in these livestock, was obtained with the inclusion of 15% of cocoa husk flour, reaching a benefit / cost of 1, 36 representing that for every dollar invested, there is a profitability of 0, 36 usd. By virtue of it recommended the use of 15% of flour cocoa husk because it registered the best production yields and the best benefit / cost for feeding guinea pigas in the growing stage - fattening.