Graded atmospheric oxygen level effects on performance and ascites incidence in broilers.

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Avian Physiology
• Environmental Physiology

Background:

• Ascites, a condition affecting poultry, is linked to suboptimal environmental conditions.
• Atmospheric oxygen concentration is a critical environmental factor influencing avian health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the impact of varying atmospheric oxygen levels on broiler chick performance.
• To assess the relationship between oxygen concentration and the incidence of ascites in broilers.

Main Methods:

• Commercial male broiler chicks were housed in calorimetry chambers for two weeks.
• Controlled atmospheric oxygen concentrations ranging from 12% to 20.6% were administered.
• Measurements included body weight, weight gain, feed consumption, ascites heart ratio, ascites score, right ventricular mass, and hematocrit.

Main Results:

• Growth parameters (body weight, weight gain, feed consumption, gain-to-feed ratio) improved with increasing oxygen concentration (P < 0.01).
• Ascites indicators (ascites heart ratio, ascites score, right ventricular mass, hematocrit) increased as oxygen concentration decreased (P < 0.01).
• Hematocrit was a more sensitive indicator of physiological change than other ascites metrics.

Conclusions:

• A minimum atmospheric oxygen level of 19.6% is recommended for thermoneutral housing to prevent ascites-related physiological changes.
• Growth depression at lower oxygen levels is primarily linked to reduced feed consumption.
• Maintaining optimal oxygen levels is essential for broiler welfare and productivity.