Effect of carbon dioxide on broiler chicken performance

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Science
• Environmental Agriculture

Background:

• Elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are common in poultry houses due to respiration.
• Understanding the impact of CO2 on broiler performance is crucial for optimizing production environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of varying carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on broiler chicken growth and performance.
• To determine the threshold of CO2 exposure that negatively impacts broiler development.

Main Methods:

• Broiler chickens were subjected to different concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2): 3,000, 6,000, and 12,000 ppm.
• Control groups were maintained at CO2 levels not exceeding 1,000 ppm.
• Body weights and feed conversions were monitored throughout the 4-week brooding period and up to 7 weeks of age.

Main Results:

• Exposure to 3,000 and 6,000 ppm CO2 did not significantly alter body weights at 4 or 7 weeks.
• A concentration of 12,000 ppm CO2 significantly depressed body weight by approximately 60 g at 4 weeks.
• This weight deficiency persisted until 7 weeks of age, indicating a long-term effect.

Conclusions:

• Elevated CO2 levels, particularly at 12,000 ppm, can impair broiler chicken growth during the critical brooding period.
• Maintaining CO2 levels below 12,000 ppm is recommended to avoid significant negative impacts on broiler body weight.
• Feed conversion ratios remained unaffected, suggesting CO2 primarily impacts growth rather than nutrient utilization efficiency.