Determination the Optimum Level of Amaranth Grain in Broilers Pelleted Diet Based On Multiple Attribute Decision Making Method (TOPSIS Model) and Production Index

An experiment was conducted to determine the optimum level of amaranth grain (AG) in broiler diet by empoying a completely randomized design with 4 experimental groups, 5 replicates and 30 birds (Ross 308 as-hatched chicks with equal proportion from both sexes) per each experimental unit. Experimental groups were included birds received levels of zero (control), 2, 4, and 6% of AG (Amaranthus hybridus, variety Ultra) in pelleted diet from 7 to 42 days of age. During the experiment, performance traits, productive index, low density lipoprotein (LDL)- cholesterol level in serum, relative weight of abdominal fat, absorption index (villus height to crypt depth ratio) in jejunum and stress index (heterophile to lymphocyte ratio) in blood were evaluated. To determine the optimum level of AG in pelleted diet, production index and also multi attribute decision making method (MADM) were applied. Based on scoring by this method, experimental group received 2% AG showed the highest score (0.9158). The control and experimental groups fed with 4 and 6% AG ranked in subsequent positions, respectively. Optimum level of dietary AG inclusion to obtain maximum production index was 1.57%. According to the results, this specific variety of amaranth grain (Ultra) can be included at the range of 1.5 to 2% in broiler pelleted diet.