An experiment was conducted to study the nutritional value of triticale grains, using one hundred forty four Mandarah laying hens divided into 4 groups. Four isonitrogenous (16% CP) and isocaloric (2700 Kcal/kg) experimental diets were formulated. The control diet contained yellow corn as a main source of energy, while triticale was incorporated into the other three diets instead of yellow corn at replacement ratio of 50, 75, or 100%, respectively. These experimental diets were fed to their respective hen groups during the period from 30 to 42 weeks of age. The results obtained could be summarized as follows:
1.Even though the results were; to some extent, in favour of group of hens fed the diet in which 75% of yellow corn was replaced by triticale, it could be concluded that triticale can economically be used to replace yellow corn completely in diets for local Mandarah laying hens, with no adverse effect on their performance for egg production and feed conversion.
2.With the exception of producing a lower yolk color score, dietary triticale had no deleterious effect on egg quality; as measured by egg weight, egg components percentage, Haugh units score, and eggshell quality measurements.
3.Fertility of eggs was improved, but hatchability of fertile eggs was not affected by dietary triticale.
4. No significant differences were observed among hen groups in the concentrations of plasma total protein, total lipids, albumin, or globulin. Yet, significant differences existed in plasma cholesterol level, but not related to dietary triticale.
5.No significant differences were detected among treatments in nutrients digestibility; as evidenced by digestion coefficients of organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, and nitrogen-free extract. Even though significant differences were found in crude fiber digestibility, it is of little importance as a nutrient for poultry.