Related Experiment Videos
[Occurrence of molds in airborne dusts in poultry farms]
Abstract:
To reach conclusions in terms of industrial hygiene, mycological samples were taken in modern poultry farms between 1979 and 1981. Sedimentation plates, the Krotow slit collector and the SPG-10 airborne dust sampler were used to determine the mould content of the air. The lowest germ counts were made in cage systems, while somewhat higher numbers were recorded among adult bids kept in the floor systems. Unexpectedly high numbers of mould germs were found in the air of large poultry houses where chickens were reared on relatively fresh litter. The fungus genera Penicillium and Cladosporium and, in one case, the species Scopulariopsis brevicaulis were predominant on old litter in both the floor and the cage system, whereas moulds of the Aspergillus group (Aspergillus candidus and A. versicolor) were additionally existent on fresh straw layers.
Insights
Poultry farm air quality varies by housing system. Cage systems had the lowest mould counts, while fresh litter in floor systems unexpectedly showed high fungal levels, impacting industrial hygiene.
Area of Science:
- Industrial Hygiene
- Mycology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Modern poultry farming practices can influence indoor air quality.
- Understanding airborne fungal contaminants is crucial for occupational health in poultry environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess mould levels in various poultry housing systems.
- To identify predominant fungal genera associated with different litter conditions.
Main Methods:
- Mycological sampling using sedimentation plates, Krotow slit collector, and SPG-10 airborne dust sampler.
- Airborne mould content analysis in cage and floor systems.
- Identification of fungal genera on fresh and old litter.
Main Results:
- Cage systems exhibited the lowest mould germ counts.
- Floor systems showed higher mould levels compared to cage systems.
- Fresh litter in large poultry houses unexpectedly contained high mould concentrations, particularly Aspergillus species.
Conclusions:
- Housing system design significantly impacts airborne mould concentrations in poultry farms.
- Litter type and age are critical factors influencing fungal proliferation.
- Specific Aspergillus species were identified as prevalent on fresh litter, posing potential industrial hygiene concerns.