Thesis Abstract

Abstract
In recent years, the use of probiotics in animal production, particularly in poultry farming, has gained significant attention due to their potential benefits on gut health and overall performance. This thesis aims to explore the effects of probiotics on gut health in poultry production, focusing on understanding their mechanisms of action, impact on microbial diversity, and implications for poultry health and productivity. The research begins with a comprehensive review of existing literature on probiotics, gut health, and poultry production. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the topic, highlighting gaps in understanding and areas for further research. The methodology section details the experimental design, sample collection, and analytical techniques used to assess the effects of probiotics on gut health in poultry. Results from the study indicate that probiotics play a crucial role in modulating the gut microbiota composition in poultry, promoting a balanced microbial community that enhances nutrient absorption and immune function. Furthermore, probiotics exhibit antimicrobial properties that can help mitigate the risk of pathogen colonization in the gut, thereby improving overall health and performance of poultry. The discussion section delves into the implications of these findings for poultry producers, emphasizing the potential of probiotics as a sustainable alternative to antibiotics for promoting gut health and reducing disease incidence in poultry flocks. The study also underscores the importance of understanding the specific mechanisms by which probiotics exert their effects on gut health to optimize their use in poultry production. In conclusion, this thesis provides valuable insights into the effects of probiotics on gut health in poultry production, highlighting their potential to enhance performance, welfare, and sustainability in the poultry industry. Further research is recommended to elucidate the specific strains and dosages of probiotics that offer the most significant benefits for poultry gut health, paving the way for the development of targeted probiotic interventions in poultry farming practices.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Exploring the Effects of Probiotics on Gut Health in Poultry Production" aims to investigate the impact of probiotics on the gut health of poultry animals and the subsequent implications for overall production efficiency and animal welfare. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits on the host. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of probiotics as a potential alternative to antibiotics in promoting gut health and performance in poultry farming. The poultry industry faces challenges related to gut health, such as digestive disorders, pathogen colonization, and reduced feed efficiency. Antibiotics have traditionally been used to manage these issues, but concerns over antimicrobial resistance and consumer demand for antibiotic-free products have prompted the search for alternative strategies. Probiotics offer a promising solution by modulating the gut microbiota, enhancing nutrient absorption, and improving immune function in poultry. This research project will involve conducting a series of experiments to evaluate the effects of different probiotic formulations on the gut health parameters of poultry, including gut microbiota composition, intestinal morphology, immune response, and performance metrics such as feed conversion ratio and growth rate. The study will compare the outcomes of probiotic supplementation with a control group to assess the specific benefits and mechanisms of action associated with probiotics in poultry production. The findings of this research are expected to provide valuable insights into the potential of probiotics as a sustainable and effective strategy for improving gut health and performance in poultry farming. By elucidating the mechanisms by which probiotics influence gut health in poultry, this study aims to contribute to the development of evidence-based recommendations for the practical application of probiotics in commercial poultry production systems. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance animal welfare, production efficiency, and the sustainability of poultry farming practices through the targeted use of probiotics to promote gut health.