Evaluación del efecto de la semilla de linaza (Linum usitatissimum) sobre los niveles de testosterona y parámetros productivos en conejos mestizos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) durante la fase de engorde

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of including flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) in diets of rabbits during the fattening phase, evaluating testosterone levels and productive parameters. Four treatments were used: T0 as control, and T1, T2, and T3 with additions of flaxseed at 3%, 6%, and 9%, respectively, all supplemented with alfalfa. Treatments (T0, T1, T2, and T3) were assigned using a randomized block design. The research was conducted over 30 days. Significant differences were observed, such as in the final weight of the rabbits, which was higher in T2 (2235.11 g) and T3 (2239.89 g) compared to T0 (1822.11 g) and T1 (2030.56 g). Food consumption varied significantly between treatments, with higher values in T2 (2187.88 g) and T3 (2282.68 g). Daily weight gain was highest in T3 (33.42 g/day), followed by T2, suggesting a potential positive effect of flaxseed on feed efficiency. There were no significant differences in feed conversion (P = 0.2583), indicating that efficiency was not affected by flaxseed addition. Mortality was low in all groups (1.23% in T0 and T1; no mortality in T2 and T3). Testosterone levels showed numerical increases with flaxseed supplementation, though without significant statistical differences. The study also evaluated carcass quality and internal organs, highlighting potential beneficial effects of flaxseed on basal metabolism and overall rabbit health.