Effects of incubation temperature pattern on broiler performance.

Area of Science:

• Poultry Science
• Animal Science
• Embryology

Background:

• Embryo development is sensitive to eggshell temperature (EST).
• Optimal embryo development is typically associated with a constant EST of 37.8°C.
• Investigating dynamic temperature patterns may enhance embryo development and broiler performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of different eggshell temperature (EST) patterns during incubation on broiler embryo development and subsequent growth.
• To test the hypothesis that a higher EST in week 2 combined with a lower EST in week 3 improves broiler outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A 2x2 factorial experiment was conducted using 468 Ross 308 eggs.
• Incubation involved varying EST in week 2 (37.8°C or 38.9°C) and week 3 (37.8°C or 36.7°C).
• Chick quality, growth performance (BW, ADFI, ADG), and slaughter yield were assessed over 6 weeks.

Main Results:

• No significant interaction was found between EST in week 2 and week 3.
• Higher EST (38.9°C) in week 2 led to longer chicks and lower blood glucose at hatch.
• Lower EST (36.7°C) in week 3 resulted in shorter chicks, higher blood glucose, increased relative heart and stomach weights at hatch, and reduced growth performance.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic EST patterns during incubation do not interact between weeks 2 and 3.
• Elevated EST in week 2 has minimal impact on hatching and grow-out.
• Reduced EST in week 3 negatively affects broiler growth, despite potential benefits in early organ development.