Topics:
Animal Refresher, Poultry Science
Live Culture of Useful Bacteria in Animal Feed
A live culture of useful bacteria added to animal feed is known as:
- Antibiotics
- Probiotics — Correct Answer
- Enzymes
- Prebiotics
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Probiotics
Probiotics are defined as live cultures of beneficial (useful) bacteria that, when fed in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Common probiotic strains used in poultry are Lactobacillus and Streptococcus species.
Probiotics vs. Prebiotics vs. Antibiotics
| Term | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Probiotics | Live beneficial bacteria cultures | Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. bulgaricus |
| Prebiotics | Non-digestible feed ingredients that stimulate growth of beneficial gut bacteria | FOS (Fructooligosaccharides), Inulin |
| Antibiotics | Compounds produced by microorganisms that inhibit/kill bacteria | Penicillin, Tetracycline, Bacitracin |
| Synbiotics | Combination of probiotics + prebiotics | — |
Benefits of Probiotics in Poultry
- Competitive exclusion of pathogenic bacteria (Salmonella, Campylobacter).
- Improved intestinal villi height and nutrient absorption.
- Enhanced immune response.
- Reduced need for antibiotic growth promoters.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Antibiotics → kill/inhibit bacteria; they are not live cultures themselves.
- Enzymes → biological catalysts (e.g., beta-glucanase, phytase); not live bacteria.
- Prebiotics → non-digestible carbohydrates that feed beneficial bacteria; not themselves live cultures.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Poultry Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
