Effect of light source and regimen on growing broilers.

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Science
• Agricultural Engineering

Background:

• Optimizing commercial broiler production is crucial for efficiency.
• Light sources and photoperiods significantly influence avian growth and physiology.
• Understanding these effects can improve broiler welfare and economic outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of different light sources on broiler growth and quality.
• To assess the effects of various light schedules on broiler development and health.
• To identify optimal lighting conditions for commercial broiler rearing.

Main Methods:

• Three light sources (incandescent, fluorescent, mini-fluorescent) were tested.
• Three light schedules were implemented: continuous light (23L:1D), increasing light (23L:1D to 16L:8D), and intermittent increasing light (16:8P).
• Body weight, food consumption, mortality, and leg/skin quality were monitored weekly in 810 broiler chicks.

Main Results:

• Broilers under mini-fluorescent bulbs showed greater weight by 49 days compared to other sources.
• At 49 days, 16:8P and 16L:8D light schedules resulted in heavier broilers than 23L:1D.
• Mortality was higher with 23L:1D, and leg condemnation was higher with 16:8P, though skin damage was lower in the 16:8P group.

Conclusions:

• Mini-fluorescent lighting and specific photoperiods (16:8P, 16L:8D) positively influence broiler growth by 49 days.
• Light schedules affect broiler weight, mortality, and physical quality, with trade-offs between leg health and skin integrity.
• Adjusting light sources and schedules offers potential for enhancing broiler production efficiency and welfare.