Low light levels improve
broiler body weights
The authors sought to determine
how different light intensities
affect broiler live performance and
the characteristics of processed
broilers. A total of 1,080 male
broilers were evenly distributed in
12 rooms. Six rooms were subjected
to light intensities of either 15
foot-candles (FC) from 1 to 51 days
(Bright), or 0.5 FC from 1 to 9 days
and 0.1 FC from 9 to 51 days (Dim).
Both treatments were provided
in an increasing photoperiod
programme ( 23 hours light, L:1
hour dark,D, 1 to 9 days; 12L:12D,
9 to 16 days; 14L:10D, 16 to 23 days;
17L:7D, 23 to 30 days; 20L:4D, 30 to
37 days; and 23L:1D, 37 to 51 days).
Increase profit through
effective sustainability practices.
Feed consumption and body
weight were determined, and
feed conversions were calculated
approximately weekly. At 51 days
of age, 30 birds from each room
were cut up to determine weights
and yields. Beginning at 23 and 30
days, respectively, body weight and
feed consumption were significantly
higher for birds that were reared in
low light conditions. At 51 days, birds
held under low light conditions had
body weights that were 4. 7 percent
higher and feed consumption that
was 3. 9 percent higher.
Feed conversion, metabolic and
total mortality, and body weight
uniformity were not affected by light
intensity. Weights of lean carcass,
total breast, fillets, tenders, and
legs were from 4. 9 to 6. 2 percent
higher for birds reared in low
light conditions. The difference
was proportional to body weight
difference and resulted in similar
increases in yields of parts. However,
wings were 9. 9 percent heavier, which
resulted in greater wing yield.
The results indicate that body
weight, feed consumption, and
most parts weights were increased
proportionally by providing 0.1
instead of 15 foot-candles of light
intensity. One explanation may be
From the editors you know and trust at WattPoultry USA, Poultry
International, Industria Avicola, Egg Industry, Feed Management,
Feed International and Pig International, EcoAgri.Biz is a new monthly
digital magazine and companion Web site that delivers information
to help global agribusiness professionals profitably implement
environmental stewardship.
Be part of the solution - visit www.EcoAgri.Biz and join the global
community today!
22070 Guanzate (Como) Italy
Via Galileo Galilei, 3
Tel. + 39.031.976.672 - Fax + 39.031.899.163
Web site: www.fiem.it
Email: incubators@fiem.it - fiem@fiem.it - info@fiem.it
