The effect of lighting program and type of litter on production and carcass performance of two broiler genotypes

Abstract

Light program and quality of litter are important for forming of the environment and have a direct impact on the performance and welfare of broilers. In conditions of short-photoperiod, the welfare of broilers is improved, but they lead to reduced body mass. In this sense, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two light programs and two types of litter on production and carcass characteristics of broilers of different genotypes. Trial was conducted on 800 day-old chicks of genotype Hubbard classic and Ross 308. For litter, two types of materials were used - chopped straw and sawdust, the same thickness. Chickens were exposed to light program with constant moderate photoperiod (LP1), and gradual extending of the photoperiod (LP2). The results suggest that the LP2 would slow down the initial growth of broilers and the occurrence of compensatory growth, without any negative effect on the final body weight and production efficiency. LP1 effect was confirmed in increasing the yield of the carcass. The effects of both light programs are not the result of their major influence, but they are consequence of the interaction with genotype. From the point established of production and carcass parameters in treatments with litter, the criteria for selection of materials for the litter should include indicators of welfare, as well as the availability and cost of certain materials. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR-31033]