Broiler production challenges in the tropics: A review

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Tropical climates present significant challenges to broiler production, hindering birds from reaching their genetic potential.
• Key issues include high feed costs, limited feedstuff availability (maize, oil seedcakes), and the pervasive problem of heat stress due to high ambient temperatures.
• Climate change exacerbates these problems, impacting broiler health and productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the primary challenges faced in broiler production within hot and humid tropical climates.
• To summarize various strategies employed to combat heat stress in poultry.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of existing literature on broiler production under tropical conditions.
• It synthesizes information on the physiological impacts of heat stress and management strategies.

Main Results:

• High ambient temperatures negatively affect broiler physiology, reducing feed intake, disturbing metabolism (carbohydrates, protein, lipids), altering glucose/insulin homeostasis, increasing fat deposition, and inducing oxidative stress.
• Limited feed availability and high costs are major economic constraints.

Conclusions:

• Addressing heat stress and feed scarcity is crucial for optimizing broiler production in tropical regions.
• Implementing effective management strategies can help mitigate negative impacts and improve bird performance.