The effects of coccidia challenge and betaine supplementation
on WG, FI, FCR, and mortality rate are
summarized in Table 2. Although mortality was numerically
high in the challenged, not supplemented treatment,
the Pearson chi-square test showed no difference
(P > 0.05) in the mortality rate between dietary treatments.
Coccidia challenge reduced (P < 0.05) the WG
and FI, and increased (P < 0.05) the FCR compared to
the unchallenged groups. Betaine supplementation had
no effect (P > 0.05) on the WG and FI, but lowered
(P < 0.05) the FCR compared to the not supplemented
groups. There was no interaction (P > 0.05) between
coccidia challenge and betaine supplementation on performance
parameters.