Harnessing Organic Phytogenic Feed Additives for Sustainable Rabbit Production: Effects of Syzygium aromaticum on Growth, Physiological and Biochemical Performance of Rabbit Bucks

Abstract

Organic livestock production plays a vital role in building resilient and sustainable food systems, particularly in developing countries where access to expensive synthetic inputs is limited. Rabbit farming represents a promising pathway for improving food security due to its high reproductive rate, efficient feed conversion, and the nutritional quality of rabbit meat. However, productivity in rabbit production systems remains constrained by poor reproductive performance, inadequate nutrition, and limited adoption of natural growth enhancers. This study evaluated the effects of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) as a phytogenic feed additive on the growth performance, morphometric traits, serum biochemistry, lipid profile, antioxidant status, and physiological parameters of 36 rabbit bucks. Four dietary treatments were formulated with graded levels of clove powder: T1 (control), T2 (5 g/kg), T3 (7.5 g/kg), and T4 (10 g/kg). Results showed significant improvements in growth performance, particularly in the T3 group, which recorded the highest final body weight (2093.88 g), weekly weight gain (71.46 g), and the lowest feed conversion ratio (1.34). Serum biochemical analysis indicated enhanced protein metabolism and improved liver function at moderate inclusion levels. Lipid profile results demonstrated decreased triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL levels, alongside increased HDL concentrations. Antioxidant markers revealed reduced malondialdehyde levels and increased activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase, indicating improved oxidative stability. Physiological parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, and pulse rate remained largely stable across treatments. The findings indicate that moderate inclusion of Syzygium aromaticum (7.5g/kg) optimizes growth performance, metabolic efficiency, and antioxidant capacity in rabbit bucks. The use of plant-based feed additives aligns with the principles of organic agriculture by reducing reliance on synthetic inputs while enhancing sustainable livestock productivity.