New monochromatic light source for laying hens

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Agricultural Engineering
• Photobiology

Background:

• Artificial illumination is critical for managing laying hens.
• Optimizing light conditions can improve production efficiency and reduce costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel monochromatic light system for egg layers using light emitting diode (LED) lamps.
• To assess the impact of different light intensities and wavelengths on egg production, egg quality, and feed consumption.

Main Methods:

• Lohmann pullets were housed in controlled rooms and exposed to three light treatments: LED lamps at 0.1 W/m2, LED lamps at 0.01 W/m2, and mini-fluorescent bulbs (PL) as control.
• Specific wavelengths (560nm, 660nm, 880nm, and intermittent 660nm) were tested within the LED treatments.
• Light periods were gradually increased from 12 to 16 hours by 28 weeks of age, combining LED and PL light sources.

Main Results:

• A significant reduction in egg production was observed in groups exposed to 880nm wavelength light.
• No significant differences in egg production or quality were found for other tested wavelengths or the 0.1 W/m2 LED intensity compared to the control.
• Feed consumption was significantly reduced by 7% in all groups exposed to 0.01 W/m2 light intensity.

Conclusions:

• The 0.01 W/m2 light intensity using LED lamps can significantly reduce feed consumption in laying hens.
• The 880nm wavelength is detrimental to egg production and should be avoided.
• This monochromatic light system holds potential for reducing rearing costs in commercial laying hen operations.