Related Experiment Videos
Variation in resistance to Pasteurella multocida among turkey lines
K E Nestor1, Y M Saif, J W Anderson
1Department of Animal Sciences, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, Ohio State University, Wooster 44691, USA. nestor.1@osu.edu
Poultry Science
|October 28, 1999
Summary
Turkeys bred for larger body size show increased susceptibility to Pasteurella multocida infection. This study found variations in resistance among commercial turkey sire lines, suggesting breeding impacts disease resilience.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Veterinary Medicine
- Poultry Genetics
Background:
- Long-term selection for increased body weight in turkey line F has led to greater susceptibility to Pasteurella multocida.
- Previous studies indicated similar P. multocida challenge mortality between turkey line F and sire lines from two major breeders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the resistance of a third major primary turkey breeder's sire line (C) to P. multocida challenge.
- To determine if variation in disease resistance exists among sire lines from three major primary turkey breeders, all used in commercial turkey production.
Main Methods:
- Turkey lines F (selected for high body weight) and RBC2 (randombred control) were compared with a third commercial sire line (C).
- Six-week-old turkeys were challenged with a field isolate of Pasteurella multocida (1.2 x 10(7) organisms/bird).
- Mortality was recorded daily for 14 days post-challenge.
Main Results:
- Turkey line F exhibited higher mortality than line C following P. multocida challenge.
- Both large-bodied lines (F and C) showed higher mortality rates compared to the RBC2 line.
- Body weights at challenge showed F > C > RBC2.
Conclusions:
- There is likely variation in resistance to Pasteurella multocida among commercial turkey sire lines from major primary breeders.
- Breeding programs focusing on body weight may influence disease resistance in turkeys.