Modelling energy utilisation in broiler breeder hens

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Physiology
• Poultry Science

Background:

• Accurate estimation of nutrient requirements is crucial for optimizing broiler breeder hen performance.
• Environmental factors, such as temperature, significantly influence energy metabolism and requirements.
• Existing feeding programs may not fully account for the dynamic needs of broiler breeders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive metabolisable energy (ME) requirement model for broiler breeder hens.
• To quantify the impact of ambient temperature on the maintenance energy requirements.
• To validate the developed ME model against established feeding recommendations.

Main Methods:

• Comparative slaughter technique to determine energy requirements for maintenance at different temperatures (13°C, 21°C, 30°C).
• Calculation of energy requirements for weight gain based on body energy content and utilization efficiency.
• Determination of energy requirements for egg production based on egg energy content and deposition efficiency.
• A feeding trial involving 400 broiler breeder hens and 40 males to compare the model's predictions with a standard feeding program.

Main Results:

• A predictive model for ME requirements was established: ME = kgW0.75(806.53-26.45T + 0.50T2) + 31.90G + 10.04EM.
• The model incorporates body weight, ambient temperature, weight gain, and egg mass.
• The feeding trial demonstrated that the model-guided feeding resulted in comparable or superior productive and reproductive performance.
• Improved feed and energy conversion ratios were observed when using the model compared to the strain recommendation.

Conclusions:

• The developed ME requirement model accurately predicts the energy needs of broiler breeder hens.
• Application of the model enhances productive and reproductive outcomes.
• The model offers a more efficient approach to feed and energy management in broiler breeder flocks.