High albumen height by expression of GALNT9 and thin eggshell by decreased Ca2+ transportation caused high hatchability in Huainan partridge chicken

Hatchability could be quite different among individuals of indigenous chicken breed which might be affected by the egg quality. In this study, hatchability was individually recorded among 800 forty-wk-old Huainan partridge chickens. The chickens were then divided into high and low hatchability groups (HH and LH group) with 50 birds in each group. Egg quality was further determined in the 2 groups. Eight birds from each group were selected for slaughtering and tissue, responsible for egg formation, collection for structure observation by staining and candidate gene expression by transcriptome analysis. The hatchability in HH was 100% and 61.18% in LH. The eggshell thickness and shell strength were significantly lower, while the albumen height and Haugh unit were significantly higher in HH group than those in LH group (P < 0.05). The magnum weight and index, and the expression of polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 9 (GALNT9), which responsible for thick albumen synthesis, in HH group were also significantly higher than that of LH group (P < 0.05). Compared with the LH group, there were 702 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in HH group, of which 402 were up-regulated and 300 were down-regulated. Candidate genes of calbindin 1 (CALB1) and solute carrier family 26 member 9 (SLC26A9), which regulate calcium signaling pathway so as to affect Ca2+ transportation, exhibited significant high and low expression, respectively, in HH group compared to those in LH group (P < 0.05). Therefore, indigenous chicken with high expression of GALNT9 in magnum to form thick albumen to provide more protein for embryo, while high CALB1 and low expression of SLC26A9 to decrease Ca2+ transportation so as to form a thinner eggshell and provide better gas exchange during embryo development.

Effects of in ovo injection of bacterial peptides and CpG-ODN on Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg infection in specific pathogen-free (SPF) chicks

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

Peptides + CpG-ODN reduced SH in caeca at the first week post-infection.Administered formulations did not reduce SH-faecal excretion.Levels of intestinal IgA were similar between all groups.CpG-ODN improved some parameters associated with chick intestinal health.

Defining optimal dietary starch, oil, and amino acid inclusion levels for broilers experiencing a coccidiosis challenge

Alternative methods to alleviate coccidiosis in broilers are of interest to producers, including dietary strategies to minimize disruptions in growth rate and efficiency when faced with health challenges. Our objective was to determine optimal combinations of dietary starch, amino acids (AA), and oil to benefit productivity of broilers experiencing Eimeria-induced immune activation. Two trials were conducted using 1,536 male Ross 308 broiler chicks in floor pens randomly assigned to 1 of 17 experimental treatments. All birds received common starter (d 0-10) and finisher (d 24-35) diets, and only differed based on their assigned experimental grower diet (d 10-24). Trial 1 experimental grower diets ranged from 2,700 to 3,300 kcal/kg AME. Trial 2 included 10 experimental grower diets following a simplex lattice design consisting of 3 basal lots formulated to have the highest starch (45.4%), oil (10.2%), or AA density (120, 1.33% digestible Lys) and mixed in 4 equally spaced levels for each component (0, 0.33, 0.67, 1). These mixtures enabled varying densities of AA (80-120% of recommendation), starch:oil (4:1-20:1), and AME (2,940-3,450 kcal/kg). Bird and feeder weights were collected on d 0, 10, 24, and 35, and birds were exposed to an Eimeria challenge on d 11 or 12. In trial 2, excreta samples were collected for AME determination and carcasses were processed on d 36. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, t test, or regression. In Trial 1, BW gain and feed conversion were improved (P < 0.05) by increasing dietary AME. In Trial 2, birds receiving diets containing AA at 93 to 107% of recommendations and higher oil exhibited improved (P < 0.05) performance, but increased starch at the expense of oil reduced performance (P < 0.05). Relative breast and fat pad weights were not influenced by diet in Trial 2. We determined that broilers mildly challenged with Eimeria would exhibit highest BW gain when receiving diets containing 35.8% starch, 8.9% oil, and 101.3% of AA recommendations, which can be utilized by producers to maintain productivity under health-challenged conditions.

Impact of broiler breeder hens' age and egg storage on egg quality, embryonic development, and hatching traits of FUNAAB-alpha chickens

This study aimed to determine the impact of the age of breeder hens and egg storage on egg quality, embryonic development, hatching events and chick quality in FUNAAB-alpha chickens. The study involved the use of 500 hatching eggs each collected from 32-wk and 60-wk-old of FUNAAB-alpha broiler breeder hens at the Animal Breeding and Genetic Unit of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria and subjected to 5 storage periods (0, 3, 7, 11, and 15 d). The quality traits of the eggs were recorded and incubated using the conventional protocol. Data were collected on the internal and external egg characteristics, embryonic development, hatching events, and chick quality. The data collected were laid out in 2 by 5 factorial design. The results showed that eggs from 32-wk-old breeder hens had higher albumen height and Haugh unit (HU) value than those from 60-wk-old breeders. The albumen height and HU decreased progressively with storage length in the 2 age groups. Extended storage duration linearly increased (P < 0.01) egg weight loss and decreased (P < 0.01) yolk height. The eggs from both breeder ages had increasing blastodermal diameters at oviposition up until d 11 of storage but decreased on d 15 of storage in eggs from 32 wk breeders. Eggs of 32-wk-old FUNAAB-alpha breeder hens had larger diameters at oviposition compared with 60-wk-old breeders. The chicks from 60-wk breeder had late internal pipping (469.06 h), early external pipping (474.46 h) and a shorter time lag between both pips (9.00 h) compared to chicks from 32 wk breeder. The highest fertility was recorded in eggs stored for 3 d (80.7% and 79.6%), while the lowest fertility was in eggs stored for 15 d (53.4% and 47.7%) in both 32-wk and 60-wk-old breeders, respectively. Chicks from young breeder hens stored for 3 d had better quality scores (100%) compared to 0, 7, 11, and 15-d storage duration and in 60-wk-old breeders across all storage duration. It was concluded that both egg storage duration and age of breeder affected egg quality, hatching events and hatchling quality of FUNAAB-alpha chickens and the interaction effects of both factors was recorded for some of these traits. However, extended storage beyond 7 d had a larger negative impact on egg quality and hatchability of eggs from an old breeder (60 wk) than on eggs of a young breeder (32 wk).

Growth performance, histological and physiological responses of heat-stressed broilers in response to short periods of incubation during egg storage and thermal conditioning

The short periods of incubation during egg storage (SPIDES) method enhances the quality of chicks and improves hatching rates. Additionally, embryonic thermal conditioning (TC) is a technique used to enhance thermotolerance in birds. Previous studies have evaluated the effects of SPIDES and embryonic TC separately. Yet, our hypothesis postulated that a synergistic effect could be achieved by integrating TC and SPIDES, thereby enhancing the broilers' resilience to thermal stress. We conducted an experiment involving 800 Ross broiler eggs, divided into two groups. The first group, referred to as S0, was maintained under standard storage room conditions and acted as our control group. The second group, known as S1, underwent a process called SPIDES for 5 h at a temperature of 37.8 ± 0.1 °C, on three occasions: days 5, 10, and 15 following egg collection. Upon reaching the 14th day of incubation (DOI), each of these primary groups was randomly subdivided into two equal subgroups. The control subgroup, designated as TC0, remained in the usual incubation conditions. Meanwhile, the other subgroup, TC1, was subjected to prenatal heat conditioning at a temperature of 39.5 ± 0.1 °C for 6 h per day, commencing on the 14th embryonic day (E) and extending until the 18th embryonic day (E). This experimental setup resulted in four distinct experimental subgroups: S0TC0, S1TC0, S0TC1, and S1TC1. The findings indicated that the combined application of SPIDES and TC had a significant positive effect on chick performance after hatching. Specifically, the (S1TC1) group exhibited the heaviest live body weight (LBW) and body weight gain (BWG) at the marketing age in comparison to the other groups. Furthermore, both SPIDES and TC had a positive influence on the relative weights of breast muscles and their histological measurements. The (S1TC1) group displayed significantly higher values in terms of the relative weight of breast muscles and the number of myocytes. In conclusion, SPIDES and TC have beneficial effects on pre- and post-hatch characteristics of broiler chicks up until the marketing age. Additionally, TC techniques improve chick performance, particularly under conditions of heat stress, and enhance the yield of breast muscle in later stages of life.

Impact of storage duration and short periods of incubation during egg storage on embryonic development and hatching traits of hybrid chicken strain

The study assessed chicken egg storage duration and short periods of incubation during egg storage (SPIDES) on embryo development. Eggs samples from 310 eggs from 72-week-old hybrid layer breeder flocks were divided and stored at 16 °C and 75% RH for 1, 4, 7, 10, 14, 17, and 21 days (D). Some eggs were also divided between 14D and 21D alone and stored. One subgroup received heat application for 6 h during storage resulting in 0-h × 14D (control); 0-h × 21D (control); 6-h × 14D (SPIDES) and 6-h × 21D (SPIDES). Storage durations between 1D and 21D did not influence most egg quality parameters. The interaction of storage duration and SPIDES affected initial, final egg weights and egg weight loss. SPIDES eggs recorded heavier wet embryos than non-SPIDES eggs at embryonic days (ED) 4, ED7, ED11, and dry embryo weight at ED11. SPIDES resulted in longer embryos at ED4 and ED11. In 21D stored eggs hatchability was higher in SPIDES compared to non-SPIDES treatments (66.7 vs. 48.3%). The reverse effect of SPIDES occurred in 14D stored eggs. In conclusion, the study shows positive effect of SPIDES in longer stored eggs and could be due to a positive impact on embryo.

Effects of algal supplementation in feed to broiler breeders on transfer of nutrients and antibodies to chicks and quality of hatchlings

Breeder nutrition is an important factor for chick quality since the chick embryo relies on nutrients available in the egg for growth and development. In addition, the egg is providing the chick with important antibodies that are vital during the first weeks of life. Brown algae contains several bioactive compounds, and dietary supplementation with algal extracts have shown improved gut health and immune responses in both pigs and poultry. The aim of this study was to investigate if feeding the brown algae Saccharina latissima, intact or as an extract, to broiler breeders can affect breeder hens' antibody responses to vaccination, egg quality and transfer of antibodies and nutrients to the egg and thereby improve the quality of newly hatched chicks. Forty-five hens and nine roosters of the parent lines of the fast-growing broiler Ross 308 were included in the experiment where hens were 31 weeks at the start. The hens were housed individually and fed one of three dietary treatments for seven weeks; (a) control, (b) addition of 0.6% algal meal or (c) addition of 0.08% algal extract. The hens were given a booster vaccination against infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) 21 days after the start of experiment. During experimental days 32-42, hens were naturally mated every 5th day and hatching eggs were collected. A total of 255 chicks were hatched, and chick quality was assessed. Moreover, on chick day three, blood was collected from 48 focal chickens and total immunoglobulin Y levels and specific titres to IBV in serum were determined. The results showed that feeding the brown algae Saccharina latissima, intact or as an extract to broiler breeders did not affect egg production, egg quality, antibody responses to vaccination or transfer of antibodies from hen to chick. However, feeding intact algae significantly increased the levels of iodine and decreased the level of selenium in the eggs and resulted in a lower proportion of chicks with maximum quality score. Interestingly, algal feeding, both intact and as an extract, increased the abdominal fat pad in broiler breeders by about 17% without affecting BW. In conclusion, supplementation of broiler breeder diets with algal extract from Saccharina latissima, but not intact algal meal is a promising dietary strategy to increase the abdominal fat pad without causing any adverse effects on nutrient level in eggs or chick quality.

Factors influencing the development of gastrointestinal tract and nutrient transporters' function during the embryonic life of chickens-A review

Intestinal morphology and regulation of nutrient transportation genes during the embryonic and early life of chicks influence their body weight and feed conversion ratio through the growing period. The intestine development can be monitored by measuring villus morphology and enzymatic activity and determining the expression of nutrient transporters genes. With the increasing importance of gut development and health in broiler production, considerable research has been directed towards factors affecting intestine development. Thus, this article reviews (1) intestinal development during embryogenesis, and (2) maternal factors, in ovo administration, and incubation conditions that influence intestinal development during embryogenesis. Conclusively, (1) chicks from heavier eggs may have a better-developed intestine than chicks from younger ones, (2) in ovo supplementation with amino acids, minerals, vitamins or a combination of several probiotics and prebiotics stimulates intestine development and increases the expression of intestine mucosal-related genes and (3) the long storage period, improper incubation temperature and imbalanced ventilation can negatively influence intestinal morphology and nutrient transporters gene expression. Finally, understanding the intestine development during embryonic life will enable us to enhance the productivity of broilers.

Effect of storage periods and conditions on embryonic mortalities and hatchability of artificially incubated ostrich eggs

1. Despite substantial research, the hatching failure of ostrich eggs remains a key concern for many commercial breeding farms.2. This source of reproductive failure needs to be addressed for ostrich farming to become more profitable.3. Information from 2212 eggs were obtained from the ostrich resource flock at the Oudtshoorn Research Farm (2013-2014). Egg data were divided on a daily basis into two groups: Group 1 included eggs stored from 1 to 13 d in cold storage (CS) at a controlled temperature of 17°C and a relative humidity (RH) of 90%. Group 2 was stored for the same time interval as Group 1, but in a cool room (CR) at ambient temperature to simulate the uncontrolled storage conditions prevalent on most breeding farms.4. Overall embryonic mortalities (OEM) were significantly higher for eggs stored for 1 d (0.38 ± 0.04) and for 8 d or more (between 0.31 ± 0.04 and 0.43 ± 0.04) compared to eggs stored for between 2 and 7 d (between 0.20 ± 0.03 and 0.26 ± 0.04).5. The moisture loss during storage (ML) for eggs stored for 13 d in CS during spring was on average slightly higher (1.28%) than that during summer (0.95%). In contrast, the ML of eggs stored in the CR for 13 d was significantly higher, at 1.59% in spring and 2.08% in summer.6. A general reduction in chick weight occurred for all the seasons (winter, spring and summer) as the number of storage days increased. Ostrich eggs should be stored for between 2 and 8 d under controlled storage conditions for improved hatchability.

Effects of age and eggshell thickness on the hatching results of stored broiler breeder eggs

The present study was conducted to determine the effects of breeder age and eggshell thickness on the hatching results of broiler breeders. A total of 3000 eggs were collected from three flocks at different ages, viz., 27 (young), 48 (middle-aged) and 65 (old) weeks. Eggs were individually weighed and eggshell thicknesses were determined using an ultrasound gauge. The eggs of each age group were classified as thin-, medium- or thick-shelled and stored for 7 days at 18°C and 60% relative humidity prior to incubation. Total egg weight loss during storage and incubation was higher in middle-aged (48 weeks old) flock eggs (11.46%) than in young (10.14%) and old (10.37%) flock eggs. Hatchability was significantly lower in the eggs of the old flock than of the other flocks. The highest hatchability (70.6%) was observed in the young flock. Eggs with thick shells better tolerated the detrimental effects of storage and more eggs remained fertile than amongst the medium- and thin-shelled eggs. The overall hatchability of the old flock was 38.0%, whilst hatchability of set eggs in the thick-shelled group of old flock eggs was 58.3%.

The Hatching Time of Broiler Chickens Modifies Not Only the Production Traits but Also the Early Bacteriota Development of the Ceca

This trial was carried out to find out the effects of the parent flock and hatching time of broiler chickens on the production traits and bacteriota development of animals. Two sets of 730 hatching eggs were collected from two different parent flocks with ages of 25 and 50 weeks. In the hatchery, both groups were divided into two subgroups: those hatched during the first 10 and the subsequent 10 h of the hatching window. A feeding trial was carried out afterwards, using the four treatments in six replicate floor pens and feeding commercial starter, grower, and finisher diets that contained all the nutrients according to the breeder's recommendations. The day-old chickens of the older parent flock and those hatched later were heavier, and this advantage remained until the end of the production period. The different ages and origins of the parent flocks failed to modify the microbiological parameters of the chicken's ceca; however, the hatching time significantly influenced the different bacteriota diversity indices: the late-hatched chickens showed higher Bacteroidetes and lower Firmicutes and Actinobacteria abundances at day 11. These treatments resulted in differences in the main families, Ruminococcaceae, Lactobacillaceae, and Bacteroidaceae. These differences could not be found at day 39.

The effect of storage periods and SPIDES on embryonic mortality, hatching characteristics, and quality of newly hatched chicks in broiler eggs

Egg storage duration can affect embryo mortality, hatching characteristics, hatching time, and post-hatch chick quality. In order to assess these effects, the impact of storage duration (5 days, 10 days, 15 days) and short incubation period during egg storage (SPIDES) investigated further 18, 900 eggs of broiler breeder (ROSS 308) in 3 × 2 factorial arrangement design. In the SPIDES treatment, the egg shell temperature was raised from its storage temperature (18 °C) and held at 100 °F for 3.5 h. Storage periods could significantly (P < 0.05) influence on embryo mortality (total, early, middle, and late), hatchability of both the total eggs and fertile eggs. The SPIDES treatment had a significant (P < 0.05) impact on a lower embryonic death rate and improved egg hatchability. Eggs stored for 5 days and eggs treated with SPIDES significantly (P < 0.001) shorten hatching time, batch’s 90% hatching time (T 90% H), mean hatching time (MHT), maximal hatching period (MHP), and hatching window (HW). Chick quality was also determined, whereas storing eggs for 5 days and using the SPIDES treatment resulted in enhanced (P < 0.001) chick weight relative to egg weight (CW/EW), activity (AC), and chick quality score (CQS). The residual yolk sac weight (RYSW), unhealed navel (UHN %), and dirty feather (DF%) recorded the lowest (P < 0.001) values compared to long storage periods and control group. Finally, stored for 5 days treated by SPIDES positively affected the hatchability characteristics, the shortening hatching time, and the quality of chicks. Regarding the results, it was confirmed that using the SPIDES treatment to prevent the harmful effects of broiler eggs being stored for an extended period of time is a viable option.

Egg quality, hatchability, gosling quality, and amino acid profile in albumen and newly-hatched goslings' serum as affected by egg storage

In modern poultry husbandry, storing fertilized eggs is a common measure to cope with the variable demands of the market and the maximum hatching capacity of the hatchery. However, this measure is harmful to the hatchability of eggs and the quality of newly hatched birds. Knowledge about the effects of storing fertilized eggs on the performance of goslings is still limited. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of storing fertilized eggs on egg quality, hatchability, gosling quality, hatching weight, post-hatching growth performance, and amino acid profile in albumen and newly hatched goslings' serum. A total of 1,080 fertilized goose eggs (Jilin White goose) with a similar egg weight (126.56 ± 0.66 g) were used in this study. All eggs were distributed into 3 groups with 24 replicates per group and 15 eggs per replicate. The differences between groups were the storage duration of eggs (0, 7, or 14 d). We found that the Haugh unit, yolk weight, and eggshell weight decreased linearly, whereas the albumen pH increased linearly, with storage duration. Prolonging storage duration had negative effects on hatchability, hatching weight, post-hatching growth performance parameters, and gosling quality in a time-dependent manner. The analysis of the amino acid profile in albumen and newly-hatched goslings' serum showed that the amino acid content increased linearly with storage duration. Additionally, eggs stored for 14 d had the worst performance for all measured parameters. Therefore, we concluded that the storage of fertilized eggs negatively affects egg quality and post-hatching gosling quality. To produce high-quality goslings, it is necessary to shorten the storage duration for fertilized eggs.

Evaluation of in ovo feeding of low or high mixtures of cysteine and lysine on performance, intestinal morphology and physiological responses of thermal-challenged broiler embryos

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of in ovo feeding cysteine, lysine or their combinations on the perinatal and post-hatch physiological responses of broiler embryos exposed to heat stress during incubation. A total of two thousand fertile eggs of broiler breeders (Ross 308) flock (at 38 weeks of age) were used for this study. In the first 10 days, the eggs were incubated using the conventional protocol of relative humidity and temperature of 55% and 37.8°C respectively. From day ten onward, the temperature was increased to 39.6°C for 6 h per day. On day 17.5, 1,500 eggs with the evidence of living embryos were randomly selected and assigned to 6 treatments having five replicates of 50 eggs each. The treatments were: un-injected eggs (UI), eggs injected with only 0.5 ml distilled water (DW), 3.5 mg/egg cysteine (CY), 2mg/egg lysine (LY), 3.4 mg cysteine+2 mg lysine (CLH) and 1.7 mg cysteine+1 mg lysine (CLL). On day 21, the hatchability, anatomical characteristics, chick quality and the antioxidant status of the chicks were evaluated. During the post-hatch phase, data were collected on the haematology, biochemical parameters, growth performance and intestinal morphology of the birds. The results revealed that the hatchability of CY chicks was higher (p &lt; 0.05) than in the other treatments, while the lowest values were recorded in CLH. The hatching muscle of the chicks of CLL was similar to those of CY but higher (p &lt; 0.05) than the others. The MDA of DW and UI chickens was similar and higher than birds in the other treatment groups. The serum SOD of CLL birds was comparable to that of CY but higher than the values recorded in the other treatments. The final weights of CLL chickens were similar to those of LY but significantly higher (p &lt; 0.05) than those of the other treatments. The duodenal villus heights of the birds of CLL were higher than those of the other treatment groups, whereas the villus height of the birds of CLH was higher than those of UI, DW and CY. Overall, in ovo feeding of cysteine alone improved the hatchability of thermally-challenged broiler embryos. In contrast, a low-dose mixture of cysteine plus lysine improved the post-hatch growth performance.

Chronic dietary exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide results in reversible increase early embryo mortality in chicken

Glyphosate (Gly) is the active molecule of non-selective herbicides used in conventional agriculture. Some evidence shows that exposure to Glyphosate-Based Herbicides (GBH) can affect both male and female fertility in animal models. However, few data exist on birds that can be easily exposed through their cereal-based diet. To our knowledge, there are no current studies on the effects of chronic dietary exposure to GBH and the potential reversibility on the fertility and embryo development in chickens. In our protocol, hens (32 weeks-old) were exposed to GBH (47 mg kg-1/day-1 glyphosate equivalent corresponding to half of the No-Observed-Adverse-Effect-Level (NOAEL) as defined by European Food Safety Authority in birds, GBH group (GBH), n = 75) or not (Control group (CT), n = 75) for 6 weeks. Then, both CT and GBH groups were fed for 5 more weeks without GBH exposure. During these two periods, we investigated the consequences on the egg performance and quality, fertilization rate, embryo development, and viability of offspring. Despite the accumulation of Gly and its metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) in the hen blood plasma, the body weight and laying rate were similar in GBH and CT animals. We observed from the 4th day of exposure an accumulation of Gly (but not AMPA) only in the yolk of the eggs produced by the exposed hens. After artificial insemination of the hens followed by eggs incubation, we showed a strong significant early embryonic mortality level in GBH compared to CT animals (78 ± 2 % vs 2.5 ± 0.3 %, p < 0.0001) with embryo death mainly occurring on the third day of incubation. By using computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tools, we noted a significant delay in the embryo development of GBH survivors at 15 days with a reduction by half of the embryo volume and some disturbances in the calculated volumes of the embryonic annexes. At 20 days of incubation, we showed a reduction in the length of the tibia and in the volume of the soft tissues whereas the skeleton volume was increased in GBH chicks. The vast majority of these phenotypes disappeared two weeks after an arrest of the GBH maternal dietary exposure. Taken together, the dietary chronic exposure of broiler hens to GBH at a Gly equivalent concentration lower than NOAEL induces an accumulation of Gly in the egg yolk resulting in severe early embryonic mortality and a delayed embryonic development in survivors that were abolished two weeks after the end of GBH exposure.

Quality Assessment of Day-Old Chickens on the Broiler Farms of Hong Kong

Simple Summary

Assessing the quality and determining maternal antibodies against regional pathogens in day-old chickens is important to optimize the production performance and management of flocks. So far, such information in Hong Kong is lacking. The present study was conducted to assess abnormalities in appearance, navel, crop filling, dehydration, body weight, and length uniformity in day-old chicks. In addition, the maternally derived antibody levels against relevant infectious diseases were measured. This study was the first in Hong Kong to provide a baseline for the quality of day-old chicks, and results in evidence-based management advice tailored to the farms. We advise the establishment of a well-managed broiler breeder farm and hatchery, in order to improve the health and productivity of the local broiler chicken industry.

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the quality of newly hatched broiler chicks delivered to Hong Kong (imported or local), and to develop tailored recommendations to improve their management. During 2019–2021, 70 batches (34 imported from mainland China and 36 local) of one/three day old chicks on 11 broiler farms were studied. From each batch, 23 or 24 chicks (1647 in total) were assessed for abnormalities in appearance, navel, crop filling, dehydration, body weight, and length uniformity. Chicks were sacrificed, and yolk sac residues in three day old chicks were measured. Maternally derived antibody levels against Newcastle disease virus (NDV), infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), and avian reovirus (ARV) were measured in all chicks using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The proportion of abnormal navel in most batches is high (median: 59%), ranging between 0 and 100%. The average length of chicks within batches ranges between 16.3 and 20.7 cm, and their average weights are 31–38.5 g upon delivery to the farms. On average, imported batches have a higher body weight and length than their local counterparts. The average yolk-free weight varies between 45 and 55 g, which is significantly lower in local batches (33–43 g). The mean antibody titers against NDV and ARV are higher in imported batches than in the local ones. In contrast, the mean antibody titer against IBDV is significantly lower in the imported batches. Concerning the overall lower quality of local chicks compared to the imported batches, establishing a well-managed broiler breeder farm and a hatchery in Hong Kong is highly recommended to enhance the health and productivity of the local broiler chicken industry.

Development, Validation and Preliminary Experiments of a Measuring Technique for Eggs Aging Estimation Based on Pulse Phase Thermography

Assessment of the freshness of hen eggs destinated to human consumption is an extremely important goal for the modern food industry and sale chains, as eggs show a rapid natural aging which also depends on the storage conditions. Traditional techniques, such as candling and visual observation, have some practical limitations related to the subjective and qualitative nature of the analysis. The main objective of this paper is to propose a robust and automated approach, based on the use of pulsed phase thermography (PPT) and image processing, that can be used as an effective quality control tool to evaluate the freshness of eggs. As many studies show that the air chamber size is proportional to the egg freshness, the technique relies on the monitoring of the air chamber parameters to infer egg aging over time. The raw and phase infrared images are acquired and then post-processed by a dedicated algorithm which has been designed to automatically measure the size of the air chamber, in terms of normalized area and volume. The robustness of the method is firstly assessed through repeatability and reproducibility tests, which demonstrate that the uncertainty in the measure of the air chamber size never exceeds 5%. Then, an experimental campaign on a larger sample of 30 eggs, equally divided into three size categories (M, L, XL), is conducted. For each egg, the main sizes of the air chamber are measured with the proposed method and their evolution over time is investigated. Results have revealed, for all the egg categories, the existence of an analytic relationship and a high degree of correlation (R2 > 0.95) between the geometric data of the air chamber and the weight loss, which is a well-known marker of egg aging.

Synergy Between Dietary Quercetin and Vitamin E Supplementation in Aged Hen’s Diet Improves Hatching Traits, Embryo Quality, and Antioxidant Capacity of Chicks Hatched From Eggs Subjected to Prolonged Storage

The current study aims to investigate the effects of the synergy between quercetin and vitamin E in aged hen’s diet on hatchability and antioxidant levels of the embryo and newly hatched chicks from prolonged storage eggs. A total of 400 breeder laying hens of 65 weeks of age were selected and randomly divided into 4 groups. Birds were fed a basal diet alone (Control), and basal diets supplemented with quercetin (Q) (0.4 g/kg) and vitamin E (VE) (0.2 g/kg) alone and their combination (0.4 g/kg Q + 0.2 g/kg VE) for 14 weeks, respectively, to determine their effects on yolk antioxidant status, fertility, embryonic mortality, hatchability, antioxidant status of embryonic tissues, as well as the antioxidant status of the newly hatched chicks. The results showed that the hen’s dietary Q + VE increased the yolk weight, as well as increased the antioxidant status of the egg yolk (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the supplementation of Q + VE significantly increased the hatchability of set-fertile eggs and decreased early embryonic mortality in eggs stored for 7 and 14 days, respectively (p < 0.05), and also improved the antioxidant capacity of the embryos obtained from eggs stored for 14 days (before incubation) (p < 0.05). Moreover, Q + VE increased the levels of SOD, GSH-Px, T-AOC, T-SOD, and CAT in the liver, heart, and pectoral muscle of the embryo, 1-day-old and 14-day-old chicks (p < 0.05), as well as upregulated the antioxidant related genes (GPx-1, GPx-2, GPx-4, DIO-1, and SOD-1) in the liver of the embryo, 1-day-old and 14-day-old chicks hatched from 14-days storage eggs (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the MDA levels were decreased by the Q + VE in the embryo and post-hatched chicks (p < 0.05). In conclusion, these findings suggested that maternal dietary Q + VE exerts beneficial synergistic effects on the antioxidant capacity of the egg yolk, embryo, and chicks during prolong egg storage, therefore, Q + VE could be used as a dietary measure to enhance hatchability and chick quality in poultry production.

Effect of the In Ovo Injection Site of Electrolytes on Some Biochemical Blood Parameters and Quality of Layer Chicks

Simple Summary

In ovo technology is a unique method, the primary goal of which is to administer bioactive substances to eggs during the embryonic development of the bird. Therefore, it is necessary to develop optimal techniques for the implementation of in ovo feeding technology in practical poultry production. This preliminary study may open a window for future research on the site/location of manipulation and solutions and carriers of nutrients used for in ovo injection of laying hen embryos.

Abstract

The effects of the in ovo injection site of electrolytes on selected biochemical blood parameters and the quality of layer chicks were investigated. A total of 120 fertile eggs from Rhode Island Red breeders were randomly distributed into 4 groups, with each group including 30 birds. The groups were as follows: untreated control and groups with different injection sites/locations of 500 µL of 0.9% saline (NaCl) on day 18 of incubation, i.e., into the air cell (AC), through the air cell into the amniotic fluid (AFA), and directly into the amniotic fluid (AF). Measurement at 1 day of age showed that regardless of the injection site, embryos injected with 500 µL of saline had significantly higher Tona score (95/100 points) compared to the control group (90/100 points). Chick length was similar among the injected groups (mean 14.7 cm) and shorter in the control group (13.9 cm). There was no significant effect of in ovo injection on the biochemical blood parameters: total protein, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, glucose, urea, and uric acid. The highest concentration of sodium was noted in the control group (141.59 mmol/L). Regardless of the injection site/location, chicks treated with 500 µL of NaCl were characterized by a significantly lower blood sodium concentration (by 7.45% (AC), 7.90% (AFA), and 4.84% (AF) compared with birds from the control group (p ≤ 0.01)). The influence of saline solution administration in ovo on the blood potassium content of chicks was demonstrated. The concentration of potassium in the control group was significantly higher (by 11.36%) than in the AC group (p ≤ 0.01). In conclusion, the injection of 500 µL of saline solution into the developing chick embryo during the last days of incubation may have a positive effect on the quality of day-old chicks.

Effects of egg storage duration on egg quality, metabolic rate, hematological parameters during embryonic and post-hatch development of guinea fowl broilers

Considering the value of guinea fowl keets, successful incubation of eggs is particularly desirable in this poultry species. This study evaluated the effect of egg storage duration on egg quality, heat production, hematological parameters during embryonic development and post hatch performance of guinea fowl broilers. A total of 800 hatching eggs of guinea fowl were used for this study. Before incubation, 12 eggs per treatment were used to analyse egg quality. Then, eggs were numbered, weighed, and assigned to 2 treatment groups of 400 eggs each according to storage duration of 5, and 10 d at a temperature of 18°C. The eggs were set for incubation at 37.7°C and 55% relative humidity for 28 d in a forced-draft incubator. To determine heat production as a measure of metabolism, 60 eggs in each replicate were transferred to respiratory cages post hatch two 12 wk old guinea fowl were also used to determine heat production. CO₂ and O₂ were recorded to calculate heat production at internal pipping, hatch and at 12 wk of age. The hatched keets were reared for 12 wk and data were collected on feed intake, body weight and feed conversion ratio. Blood samples were collected at hatch and at 12 wk of age from 24 guinea fowls per treatment to analyze haematological parameters. The results showed that embryos and guinea fowls at 12 wks of age from eggs stored for 5 d had higher (P ˂ 0.05) heat production and body weights. However, a significant higher (P ˂ 0.05) level of basophile, eosinophils, and lymphocytes was observed in guinea fowls from 10 d storage egg. It was concluded that extended duration of egg storage negatively influenced the metabolic rate of embryos. It also impacted hematological parameters which may suggest influence on immune response during embryonic and post-hatch growth.

Effects of hatching on-farm on performance and welfare of organic broilers

As an alternative to traditional hatching in the hatchery, fertilized incubated eggs can be placed in the rearing barn on embryonic d 18 for hatching to occur on-farm, omitting several hatchery procedures, and transport of day-old chicks. In addition, this practice further allows newly hatched chicks access to feed and water immediately post-hatch. The aim of the present study was to examine welfare implications of hatching slower-growing organic broilers on-farm (OF) using the One2Born system (One2Born, Uden, the Netherlands). Hatchery-hatched chicks (HC) transported to the farm were used as control. Six flocks of both treatments, each comprising approximately 3,600 mixed-sex Hubbard JA57 ColorYield broilers, housed with veranda and outdoor access were included in the study. Compared to HC, the hatchability was higher in OF chicks (95.3% vs. 94.8%; P = 0.0097), whereas the number of second grade chicks was lower (11.6% vs. 16.1%; P < 0.0001). The chick quality was lower for OF than HC (odds ratio: 1.79; P = 0.0009), but this was not reflected in the first week mortality (OF: 0.41%, HC: 0.99%; P < 0.0001) or total mortality (OF: 1.51%, HC: 2.20%; P < 0.0001). No difference was found between treatments for the live body weight at slaughter age (P = 0.73). Breast blisters were more common in HC males than in OF males and in females from both treatments (P = 0.038), whereas OF males and females from the 2 treatments did not differ (P = 0.91). There was no effect of treatment on litter quality, footpad dermatitis, gait, skin injuries, and rejection rates at slaughter (P ≥ 0.35). In conclusion, OF hatching appears to be a viable concept, resulting in reduced mortality and increased hatchability, though knowledge on the topic is sparse. Therefore, more research should be addressed to the welfare implications of hatching OF, specifically to impacts on litter quality, footpad dermatitis, and how chick quality impacts other animal welfare indicators.

Research Note: Effects of preincubation and higher initiating incubation temperature of long-term stored hatching eggs on hatchability and day-old chick and yolk sac weight

We studied the effect of increased initial incubation temperature and repeated preincubation of 35-d stored eggs from 46-week-old Ross 308 parental stock on the hatchability and day-old chick and yolk sac weight. Two different temperatures were applied during the first 36 h and they were combined with 4 preincubation treatments during storage. One half of the hatching eggs (2,400) were incubated for the first 36 h at an incubation temperature of 38.3°C, and the second half were incubated at a higher temperature of 39.2°C. Four different preincubations were applied; none, once at the 7th d of hatching egg storage, twice at the 7th and 12th d of storage and 3 times at the 7th, 12th and 19th d of storage. Both preincubation and increased temperature had negative effects on hatchability (P < 0.001). The interaction between these 2 factors was also significant (P < 0.05). These 2 factors also negatively affected early and late embryonic mortality (P < 0.001). However, middle embryonic mortality was not influenced. Live weight, weight of residual yolk sac, and yolk sac proportion were not affected by repeated preincubation nor by increased temperature over the first 36 h of incubation (P > 0.05). A higher initial temperature decreased chick yolk free body mass (P < 0.05). Although neither increased initial temperature in the setter nor repeated preincubation affected one-day-old chick weights, these treatments were not suitable for long-term stored eggs because of decreased hatchability and impairment of one day chick yolk free body mass.

Effects of diet density and feeding frequency during the rearing period on broiler breeder performance

1. An experiment was conducted to study the effects of diet density and feeding frequency during the rearing period on broiler breeder performance between three and 40 weeks of age.2. A total of 960 female one-day-old chicks (Ross 308) were randomly allocated to 24 floor pens (12 pens in two rooms). On day 21 pullets were assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement including two diets (control (CON) or 16% diluted (DIL)) and two feeding strategies (fed once (FO) or twice (FT) a day). The FO pullets were fed at 0815 h (100%) and FT pullets at 0815 h (60%) and 1215 h (40%). Water was provided by nipple drinkers with drip cups during 7 and 8 h in the rearing and laying period, respectively.3. Body weight (BW) and water intake were measured weekly and BW uniformity at 10 and 20 weeks of age. Litter characteristics were measured at 10, 15, and 20 weeks of age. During the laying period, egg production and incubation characteristics were recorded.4. The DIL pullets received a higher feed allowance in combination with similar water intake which resulted in a lower water/feed ratio compared to the CON pullets resulting in a higher DM content of the litter and improved litter quality. The higher feed allowance resulted in a 20% higher total manure production at 20 weeks of age. The FT pullets showed a lower body weight (BW) CV at 10 weeks of age; however, no effect was found at 20 weeks of age. During the laying period, FT pullets tended to have earlier onset of lay, higher total egg production at 30 weeks of age and better fertility.5. It was concluded that alternative feeding strategies can positively influence production performance during both the rearing and laying period.

Effects of Maternal and Progeny Dietary Vitamin E on Growth Performance and Antioxidant Status of Progeny Chicks before and after Egg Storage

Simple Summary

Prolonged egg storage duration has been indicated to decrease the quality of hatchlings and the growth performance of offspring. Maternal nutrition plays a vital role in growth of chicks post-hatch. However, no work has been performed to evaluate whether or not maternal nutrition could improve the growth performance of offspring hatched from stored eggs. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of maternal and progeny dietary vitamin E supplementation on the growth performance and antioxidant status of offspring before and after egg storage. Our results showed that maternal dietary vitamin E (VE) supplementation of 200 or 400 mg/kg could improve the growth performance and antioxidant status of offspring hatched from stored eggs, but not for that of offspring hatched from unstored eggs. These findings suggested that maternal dietary vitamin E was beneficial to improve the quality of long-term storage eggs.

Abstract

Two trials were conducted to investigate the effects of maternal and progeny dietary vitamin E (VE) supplementation on the growth performance and antioxidant status of offspring before and after egg storage. A total of 576 75-week-old Ross 308 breeder hens were assigned to three dietary VE treatments (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) with 6 replicates of 32 hens for 12 weeks. Two trials were conducted with offspring hatched from eggs laid at weeks 9 and 12 of breeder feeding trial, respectively. Trial 1 was conducted by a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments with three levels of maternal dietary VE (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) and two levels of progeny dietary VE (0 and 35 mg/kg). Trial 2 was conducted with three maternal dietary VE treatment (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), and chicks were hatched from eggs stored for 14 d and received the same progeny diet with no addition of VE. Results showed that in trial 1, maternal (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) and progeny (0 and 35 mg/kg) dietary VE supplementation did not affect the growth performance of offspring hatched from unstored eggs (p > 0.05). In trial 2, in the case of long-term egg storage, maternal dietary VE supplementation of 200 and 400 mg/kg increased the body weight (BW) of 21- and 42-d-old offspring and the body weight gain (BWG) of offspring from 1 to 21 d (p < 0.05), and decreased the feed conversion ratio (FCR) of offspring from 1 to 21 d (p < 0.05) compared to 100 mg/kg VE. As the maternal dietary VE levels increased, the liver and serum antioxidant status of offspring enhanced (p < 0.05). In conclusion, maternal dietary VE supplementation of 200 or 400 mg/kg could improve the growth performance and anti-oxidant status of offspring hatched from stored eggs, but not for that of offspring hatched from unstored eggs. The suitable VE level for the broiler breeder diet was 400 mg/kg in the case of long-term egg storage.

Broiler growth and efficiency in response to relaxed maternal feed restriction

Broiler growth performance can be influenced by maternal BW, maternal age, and sex. The present study evaluated broiler growth and efficiency in response to increased maternal BW (relaxed level of maternal feed restriction). It was hypothesized that BW and fatness would increase, and efficiency would be reduced as maternal BW increased. Ten BW trajectories were applied to precision-fed Ross 708 female broiler breeders (n = 30) from 2 to 42 wk of age. Trajectories varied in prepubertal and pubertal growth phases from 2.5 to 22.5% above the recommended BW target. Additional unrestricted breeders (n = 6) were not limited to a maximum BW (fed ad libitum). Two 35 d experiments were conducted with precision-fed broilers from these breeders at 35 and 42 wk of age. Two analyses (full and restricted analysis scopes) were performed to evaluate broiler BW, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and carcass traits with maternal BW at photostimulation (22 wk of age) as a continuous effect, and maternal age and sex as discrete effects. The full scope included broilers from all hens (feed restricted and unrestricted). The restricted scope excluded broilers from unrestricted hens. Differences were reported at P ≤ 0.05. For every kilogram increase in maternal BW, cumulative FCR increased by 0.235 and 0.471 g:g for broilers from all and feed restricted hens, respectively. Proportional gut weight of broilers from feed restricted hens decreased by 0.8244% per kilogram increase in maternal BW. Males were heavier than females on day 28 and 35, and broilers from 42-wk-old breeders were heavier than broilers from 35-wk-old breeders on day 0 and 35. Males from all hens were more feed efficient (1.318 g:g) than females (1.335 g:g) from day 29 to 35. Females from all and feed restricted hens had a greater proportional fat pad and breast muscle weight than males, and proportional breast muscle yield of broilers from 42-wk-old breeders was on average 1.04 times greater than that of broilers from 35-wk-old breeders. Maternal BW did not affect offspring BW, reduced cumulative FCR, and reduced gut weight in the restricted analysis scope.

Effects of flock age, storage temperature, and short period of incubation during egg storage, on the albumen quality, embryonic development and hatchability of long stored eggs

1. The effect of breeder flock age, storage temperature and a short period of incubation during egg storage (SPIDES) on albumen quality, development of blastoderm, and hatchability of long-stored eggs was evaluated.2. Hatching eggs were collected from 28-week-old (young) and 40-week-old (prime) Ross female line grandparent flocks and were stored for 14 d at 12, 15 or 18°C. During storage, the eggs were either kept continuously in the storage room (control) or were subjected to SPIDES treatment.3. Embryonic development was more advanced in eggs from the prime flock, exposed to SPIDES and warmer (18°C) storage temperature (P ≤ 0.05). There was a difference in the albumen pH for flock ages (P < 0.05), but the SPIDES treatment did not affect albumen height and pH (P > 0.05). On d 14 of storage, albumen pH was positively (P < 0.05) correlated with storage temperature. Hatchability was higher in the prime flock (P < 0.05).4. At both flock ages, hatchability increased (P < 0.05) by storing the eggs at 15°C, compared to 18°C, with 12°C intermediate. The hatchability improvement was due to reduced early embryonic mortality.5. The SPIDES treatment decreased late embryonic mortality and the percentage of second-grade chicks (P < 0.05), which increased the hatchability of fertile eggs (P < 0.05). SPIDES only reduced (P < 0.05) early embryonic mortality in eggs stored at 18°C.6. The highest hatchability was observed in the eggs stored at 15°C and exposed to one SPIDES treatment during 14 d storage.

The impacts of egg storage time and maternal dietary vitamin E on the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of progeny chicks

Two trials were designed to investigate the impacts of egg storage time and maternal dietary vitamin E (VE) supplementation on the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of progeny chicks. In total 512 Ross 308 broiler breeder hens (71-wk-old) were assigned to 2 dietary VE treatments (6 and 100 mg/kg) for 14 wk. Progeny chicks used in trials 1 and 2 were originated from eggs laid at week 10 (stored 0 d) and week 8 (stored 14 d), and week 14 (stored 0 d) and week 12 (stored 14 d), respectively. The 4 groups in trial 1 consisted of 2 levels of maternal VE (6 and 100 mg/kg) and 2 egg storage time (0 and 14 d). The 8 groups in trial 2 consisted of 2 levels of maternal VE (6 and 100 mg/kg), 2 egg storage time (0 and 14 d) and progeny sex (male and female). In trial 1, egg storage decreased the body weight, the liver total superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity of 21-day-old offspring (P < 0.05), and the body weight gain and feed intake from 8 to 21 d and 1 to 21 d (P < 0.05); and increased the serum and liver malonaldehyde (MDA) of 7-day-old offspring and the ratio of feed: gain (F/G) from 1 to 7 d (P < 0.05). Maternal VE (100 vs. 6 mg/kg) decreased the F/G from 1 to 7 d and increased the serum total superoxide dismutase of 21-day-old offspring (P < 0.05). In trial 2, egg storage decreased the body weight of 42-day-old offspring, and the body weight gain and feed intake from 22 to 42 d and 1 to 42 d (P < 0.05); and increased the serum and liver MDA of 21- and 42-day-old offspring (P < 0.05). Maternal VE (100 vs. 6 mg/kg) reduced the serum MDA of 7-day-old offspring (P < 0.05). Interactively, maternal VE (100 vs. 6 mg/kg) reduced the serum MDA of offspring originated from stored eggs (P < 0.05), but not for that of offspring originated from unstored eggs in the two trials. It can be concluded that egg storage (14 vs. 0 d) decreased the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of offspring, while maternal dietary VE (100 vs. 6 mg/kg) supplementation could partly alleviate the reduction of antioxidant capacity (except for growth performance) of offspring induced by egg storage for the early phase post-hatch.

Effects of coated hatching eggs obtained from old broiler breeders with chitosan on embryonic growth, hatching results and chick quality

The aim of this research was to determine the effects of coating broiler hatching eggs with chitosan on egg quality, embryonic growth, hatching results and chick quality. Eggs obtained from old broiler breeder, aged 59 weeks, were used. Eggs were divided into two groups (coated with chitosan and uncoated) groups. Each group was divided into three groups according to the storage period. Eggs were stored for periods of 1, 4 and 7 days at 15°C and 80% humidity. Then, they were incubated. Storage period of eggs up to 7 days did not affect the egg quality, egg weight loss, embryo growth, chick properties and hatchability of fertile eggs. However, embryo development, relative residual yolk sac weight and relative chick weight were affected by coating eggs with chitosan. Interaction was not found between storage lengths and coating of eggs with chitosan for all examined parameters. The results of the present study suggested that hatching eggs obtained from old broiler breeder flocks were immersed into chitosan solution once and quickly have negative effect on the embryo weight, yolk sac absorption and relative chick weight. It has been observed that covering the hatching eggs with chitosan is not suitable in this respect even if immersion takes place once and in a short time.

Pre-Incubation and Turning During Long Storage as a Method of Improving Hatchability and Chick Quality of Japanese Quail Eggs

In this study, we investigated the effect of modification of 12 d storage conditions of quail eggs from two flocks: at 17–20 weeks of life (A) and 36–39 weeks of life (B) on the incubation time, hatch window (HW), hatching results and chicks quality. The eggs were divided into experimental groups: COI = no pre-incubation (PI); SPIDES = were treated with 4 h PI, delivered at 4, 6, 8 and 10 d of storage; EG SPIDES = were treated with variable time of PI according to the scheme 5 d – 2 h, 7 d – 3 h, 9 d – 5 h and 11 d – 6 h. In addition, in each group, half of the eggs were turned (T) every 12 h, which is indicated as COI T, SPIDES T and EG SPIDES T. Pre-incubation was conducted at 37.8°C and 50–55% RH. It has been demonstrated that both storage profiles contribute to shortened incubation time, yet the HW is deteriorated if T is not applied. The benefits resulting from the EG SPIDES profile is an increase of 2.3 points in the “average score of all chicks” index compared to the COI group. In summary, the use of PI and T, and in particular the EG SPIDES profile with the concomitant use of T during long storage of quail eggs is recommended to obtain a considerable improvement of hatching results and chick quality.

Research Note: Effects of turning and short period of incubation during long-term egg storage on embryonic development and hatchability of eggs from young and old broiler grandparent flocks

Longer egg storage times (>7 d) are common in broiler parent and grandparent hatcheries to obtain the requested flock size. However, prolonged storage is known to decrease hatchability. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of turning and short period of incubation during egg storage (SPIDES) for 14 d on the stage of blastoderm development, embryonic mortality, and hatchability of eggs from young and old grandparent flocks. Hatching eggs were obtained from Ross female line grandparent flocks aged 29 wk (young) and 58 wk (old). Eggs were stored at 15°C, and turned 90° 0 or 4 times daily during storage. On day 5 after egg collection, the eggs were either held in the storage room (control) or subjected to SPIDES treatment. The development of the blastoderm in sample eggs was determined immediately after collection on a farm and again after the SPIDES treatment. Each of the 8 subtreatments was tested on 6 replicate trays of 150 eggs (900 eggs per subtreatment) with 7,200 hatching eggs set in a single-stage setter and hatcher for the trial. The stage of blastoderm development was advanced by the old flock, by SPIDES, and by turning 4 times daily during egg storage (P ≤ 0.05). There was a significant interaction effect of flock age × turning during storage on embryonic development, which suggested that turning advanced the stage of blastoderm development only in eggs from the old flock (P ≤ 0.05). Eggs from the young flock had a better hatchability than eggs from the old flock (P ≤ 0.05). Hatchability was increased by turning 4 times/day during the storage period compared with no turning because of a decrease in the percentage of late embryonic mortality (P ≤ 0.05). SPIDES decreased early and late embryonic mortality as well as the percentage of second-grade chicks (P ≤ 0.05), which increased the hatchability of fertile eggs at both flock ages (P ≤ 0.05). The results of this study showed that a combination of turning eggs 4 times daily along with one SPIDES treatment during 14 d of storage resulted in the highest hatchability in both young and old broiler grandparent flocks.

Comparison of early growth and survivability in indigenous guinea fowls from Northern Ghana

Three guinea fowl populations from Northern Ghana were compared in terms of their body weight, growth rates, and survivability during the first 11 weeks of life. Keets (n = 865) were hatched from eggs collected from 32 sampling areas divided into eleven subpopulations within three populations in Northern Ghana. Together with an experimental flock maintained at Animal Research Institute (ARI flock), these birds were raised and appraised for weekly body weights, weekly growth rates, and survivability. Weekly body weights did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) among the three populations, although ARI flock were significantly heavier (p ˂ 0.05) compared to the main populations until the fourth week. In contrast, among the subpopulations, significant differences emerged in body weights from the second week and were more pronounced from the sixth week. Growth rates measured as weekly weight gains also differed significantly among subpopulations beyond the second week, although differences in growth rates were not significantly different among whole populations. The mean values for total feed intake, daily feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) did not vary significantly (p > 0.05) between the populations. Therefore, although the variations in body weight and growth rates were limited among the populations, there existed significant variations among subpopulations, creating opportunities to establish genetically divergent populations for growth rate and to improve early growth rates and body weights in local guinea fowls by selection. High survivability observed in the ARI flock compared to keets from the three populations of Northern Ghana was likely due to good breeder stock management practices despite their common ancestry.

Effect of dietary l-arginine of broiler breeder hens on embryonic development, apparent metabolism, and immunity of offspring

This study investigated the effects of supplemented l-arginine (l-Arg) in broiler breeder hens' diets on the embryonic development and physiological changes of offspring during the hatching period. A total of 480 35-wk-old healthy female Arbor Acres broiler breeders were randomly divided into 6 groups and fed a corn and soybean meal diet with 6 digestible Arg levels (0.96%, 1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%). After a 10-wk experiment, eggs were collected for incubation. At embryonic day (E) 11 to E21, eggs, embryos, and organs (liver, breast muscle, and thigh muscle) were weighed. Total protein, urea nitrogen, creatinine, cholesterol, and triglyceride in plasma, were measured. Plasma level of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) were measured at E13, E17, and E21. Messenger RNA expression of carbamoyl phosphate synthase I (CPS1), ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC), and argininosuccinate synthase (ASS) in liver and breast muscle tissues was assessed at E13, E17, and E21. The results showed that 1.16% Arg in maternal diet increased egg weight (P < 0.05). The level of Arg in maternal diet has a significant effect on organ index and embryo weight of multiple embryonic days (P < 0.05). Embryonic plasma total protein concentration was significantly affected by maternal dietary Arg level (P < 0.05) and exhibited quadratic responses at E11, E15, E17, and E21 (P < 0.01). Plasma urea nitrogen, creatinine, triglyceride, and cholesterol level were also significantly affected by the level of maternal Arg at different embryonic ages (P < 0.05). Dietary digestible Arg levels quadratically influenced plasma urea nitrogen level at E21 (P < 0.05) and cholesterol concentration at E17 and E19 (P < 0.01). L-Arg supplementation in maternal diet significantly improved the IgG level at E17 and E21 (1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, and 1.74%; P < 0.05), the IgM level at E13 (1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%) and E17 (P < 0.05) and the NOS level at E13, E17, and E21 (P < 0.05). Maternal dietary L-Arg supplementation significantly improved the expression of CPS1 gene, OTC gene (1.16%, 1.35%, and 1.55%), and ASS gene (1.35% and 1.55%) in the liver (P < 0.05), and also enhanced the CPS1 gene (except 1.35%) and OTC gene (1.55% and 1.74%) expression in the breast muscle (P < 0.05). In conclusion, maternal Arg level affected the embryonic development of offspring and regulated the apparent metabolic programming and immunity state of the embryo. Arginine level of 1.55% in hens' diet was beneficial to the protein synthesis and immunity of the offspring in the embryonic period, and it was recommended to obtain healthy offspring.

Effect of storage duration on egg quality, embryo mortality and hatchability in FUNAAB-ɑ chickens

Effect of extended storage on egg quality, embryo mortality and hatchability in FUNAAB-ɑ chickens was determined. Hatchable eggs (n = 288; weighing 53.2 ± 4.67 g) collected from a flock of FUNAAB-ɑ layer breeder hens aged 32 weeks were stored in egg tray with broad end up under 16 ± 1.5°C for either 0, 4, 8, 12, 16 or 20 d. Before incubation, eight eggs from each group were evaluated for internal and external quality traits. Remaining eggs were set in an incubator and transferred into hatcher on embryonic day 18. Data collected were subjected to one-way analysis of variance. Egg weight loss (EWL; p < .001), surface area (p < .001), yolk diameter (p < .001), inner and outer blastoderm diameters (p < .05) and dead in germ (DIG; p < .001) increased with storage duration while yolk height (p < .001), yolk index (p < .001), albumen weight (p < .05), albumen height (p < .05), albumen index (p < .01), Haugh's unit (HU; p < .05), fertility (p < .001), hatchability of set (HATCHS; p < .001) and fertile eggs (p < .05) decreased. Weight losses of 0, 1.2, 2.2, 3.4, 4.6 and 6.1% were recorded in egg stored for 0, 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 days respectively. Eggs stored beyond 8 days exhibited higher DIG and lower HATCHS. Shell percentage in 4 days storage (11.4%) was lower (p < .05) than in 16 days storage (13.4%). Shell thickness was similar in eggs stored for 0 to 12 days, but 8 days storage (0.60 mm) had thinner (p < .01) shell than day 16 (0.71 mm) and day 20 (0.73 mm) storage. Internal quality unit (IQU) was higher (p < .05) in fresh eggs (180.4) than in 12 days (167.8) and 20 days (167.8) stored eggs. Extended storage of FUNAAB-ɑ eggs caused EWL, surface area shrinkage, lowered HU and IQU, loss of yolk and albumen quality, increased blastoderm diameters and DIG, and decreased egg fertility and HATCHS from day 8 forward. Storing FUNAAB-ɑ eggs beyond 8 days reduced quality parameters; therefore, other mitigating factors are recommended when storing beyond 8 days.

Research Note: Storage period and prewarming temperature effects on synchronous egg hatching from broiler breeder flocks during the early laying period

The effects of the storage period and prewarming temperature on embryonic mortality, hatchability, and synchronous hatching of broiler eggs were investigated. Eggs were obtained from commercial flocks of Ross 308 broiler breeders at 27 and 28 wk of age for trials 1 and 2, respectively. In both trials, 2,400 eggs were stored for 4 d (short) or 11 d (long) at 18°C (64.4°F) and 75% RH and were randomly assigned to 2 groups at either a prewarming temperature of 26.1°C (79°F, low) or 29.4°C (85°F, high) for 8 h before setting. The eggs were transferred from setters to hatching baskets at 444 h (18.5 d) of incubation. The hatched chicks were counted at 6-h intervals between 468 h and 516 h of incubation and categorized as early, middle, or late hatching. The eggs stored for 4 d hatched earlier than the eggs stored for 11 d (P < 0.05). An increased prewarming temperature (29.4°C) resulted in a 1.0-h shorter incubation duration, but this difference was not significant (P = 0.064). An interaction between the storage period and prewarming temperature was observed for middle- and late-hatched chicks (P < 0.05). No interactions between the storage period and prewarming temperature were observed for hatchability of fertile eggs or embryonic mortality; however, a significant interaction was found between the storage period and prewarming temperature on the second-quality chick percentage (P < 0.05). The eggs stored for 11 d had a significantly reduced hatchability of fertile eggs owing to increased embryonic mortality than short-stored eggs (P < 0.05). The interaction effect indicated that eggs held for 8 h with prewarming at 29.4°C after 11 d of storage had more middle- and fewer late-hatched chicks and improved chick quality than those that received the 26.1°C prewarming treatment (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was found among the prewarming treatments for eggs stored for 4 d. This study demonstrated that prolonged egg storage resulted in reduced hatchability, increased incubation duration, and an asynchronous hatching time. Moreover, increasing the prewarming temperature could be used to promote uniformity among embryos through synchronous hatching, thus improving broiler flock uniformity and performance of the prolonged stored eggs.

Effects of broiler breeder strain, age, and eggs preheating profile in single-stage systems on the hatchability of eggs and quality of chicks

Preheating can increase the efficiency of commercial broiler breeding. A slow increase in temperature can counteract the negative effects of water condensation on the surface of the shell and reduces the thermal shock to the embryos. It is essential to design different preheating profiles because of the variances between breeds in terms of egg construction and the course of embryogenesis, along with the influence of the parental flocks' age on hatching rates. This study aimed to analyze six preheating profiles with different time and temperature patterns (A-F), which were immediately applied before the egg incubation began. These profiles were used for two broiler breeder strains - Hubbard Flex and Ross 308 - for the entire laying cycle divided into six age ranges: 25-30, 31-36, 37-42, 43-48, 49-54, and 55-60wk of life. A total of 7839250 Hubbard Flex and 57167060 Ross 308 eggs were used in the study. The eggs were stored for 4-7d before the preheating profile was applied. Mortality during incubation, hatchability, and the quality of chicks were analyzed. The most favorable results were obtained with profile B - 02 h (25.0 °C):02 h (29.4 °C):02 h (32.2 °C):02 h (35.0 °C):02 h (37.8 °C), while the worst results were obtained with profile C - 03 h (23.9 °C):03 h (25.0 °C):04 h (32.2 °C). These findings indicated that compared to a rapid temperature increase during incubation, multistage slow heating of eggs is more advantageous as it enables achieving better hatchability from apparent fertile eggs and obtaining more first-grade chicks. An analysis of the interaction of different preheating profiles with flock age and breed of parental flock revealed that profile C is not suitable for eggs from older flocks, in particular Ross 308. Deterioration of hatchability of chicks from apparent fertile eggs was also confirmed for flocks over 49wk of life after the application of profile E - 03 h (77 °C):02 h (29.4 °C):02 h (32.2 °C):01 h (35.0 °C):02 h (37.8 °C). Increased early and late mortality of embryos was observed in the case of Hubbard Flex after the use of profile D - 03 h (25.0 °C):02 h (29.4 °C):01 h (32.2 °C):02 h (35.05 °C):02 h (37.8 °C). Based on the obtained results, it can be recommended that profile B can be applied for the entire duration of Ross 308 and Hubbard Flex flock utilization to achieve high egg hatchability and obtain high-quality chicks.

Effects of repeated thermal manipulation of broiler embryos on hatchability, chick quality, and post-hatch performance

The current study aimed to evaluate the effects of embryonic thermal manipulation (TM) on hatching criteria, chick quality, and subsequent growth performance of broiler chickens under heat stress (HS) condition. Two thousand fertile eggs were randomly divided between 2 groups and incubated under standard (37.8 °C and 56% relative humidity (RH)) and TM (39.5 °C and 65% RH) conditions. Temperature and humidity were identical in both groups within the first 10 days. The eggs in the TM group were exposed to 39.5 °C and 65% RH for 3 h/day from 11 to 16 days of incubation. Egg weight (EW) was measured in 1, 11, and 18 days of incubation, and eggshell temperature (EST) was recorded daily. Chick quality was, also, evaluated according to the Tona method on hatch day. Samples of the chicks (n = 20) were euthanized and dissected at 0-day post-hatch, and different carcass parts were weighed, and blood samples were collected for hormones analysis. The post-hatch growth performance of both groups was also recorded under HS (37 °C for 5 h beginning at 22 days) condition. The results showed that TM did not significantly affect hatchability and embryonic mortality (P > 0.05). The female chick percentage was higher in the TM group (P < 0.05). Eggshell temperature and serum concentrations of corticosterone and T₄ were significantly higher in the TM compared with the control chicks (P < 0.05). The chick length was considerably shorter in TM chicks (P < 0.05). Chick quality was not influenced by TM. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the post-hatch growth performance (P > 0.05). In conclusion, exposing broiler embryos to the controlled TM did not have adverse effects on chick quality and post-hatch growth performance.

Impact of Rotten Eggs on Hatchery Performances: A Multicentric Study

Day-old chick quality is an essential element for the overall profitability of the broiler productive cycle and has been associated with the growth performance and feed conversion rate. An effect on the development of the immune system was also reported, which could likely account for reduced susceptibility to infectious diseases and improved animal welfare parameters. Besides direct cost reduction, lower antimicrobial use and improved animal welfare are crucial in the directive of European Union legislation and are at the forefront of customer choices. Several factors contribute to determining the chick quality. Breeder flocks genetics, health, and management affect the egg features, quality, and bacterial load. However, hatchery practices play a pivotal role, since adequate hygiene and handling are fundamental in reducing egg contamination and cross-contamination. The presence of rotten eggs is often regarded as a major risk, since the internal bacterial load can contaminate the needle used for in-ovo vaccination, the nearby eggs, and the whole incubator/hatching room when broken. In the present multicentric study, representative of 40 hatcheries located in 11 European countries, a remarkable impact of the rotten egg percentage on the hatchery productive parameters, representative of the hatchability, embryo mortality, and level of contamination, was demonstrated. Efficient rotten egg removal and the application of appropriate detection and removal tools should thus provide remarkable benefits for hatchery performance and indirectly for downstream poultry production.

Interactions between Egg Storage Duration and Breeder Age on Selected Egg Quality, Hatching Results, and Chicken Quality

Simple Summary

Egg storage duration and breeder age are two important factors influencing productivity and profitability of hatcheries. These factors probably interact with each other to influence egg quality, apparent fertility, hatchability, and hatchling quality. The aim of this study was to investigate interactions between egg storage duration and broiler breeder age on these parameters. It was demonstrated that eggs from young breeders were the most resistant to storage duration increase in relationship to early and middle embryonic mortality than eggs from older breeders. However, the opposite was found for hatchling quality, where yolk free body mass, which increased from young to old breeders after five days of storage, increased only from middle to old breeders after prolonged storage (19 days). The intestine percentage decreased also after long storage in younger breeders, but in older breeders no significant effect of egg storage duration was found.

Abstract

Egg storage duration and breeder age are probably interacting to influence egg quality, hatchability, and hatchling quality. To evaluate this interaction, the impact of breeder age (31, 42, 66 weeks) and storage duration (2, 5, 12, 19 days) was investigated on broiler breeder eggs (Arbor Acres). Thick albumen diameter and pH increased, and yolk dry matter decreased between 2 and 19 days of storage. With the increase of breeder age from 31 to 66 weeks, albumen height, percentage and dry matter and shell percentage decreased and the egg weight and yolk percentage, dry matter and diameter increased. Prolonged egg storage increased the yolk pH in all breeder ages, but earlier and steeper in the oldest breeders. Prolonged egg storage resulted in a lower hatchability of set and fertile eggs due to a higher percentage of embryonic mortality. Early mortality increased earlier and steeper with prolonged egg storage in the oldest compared to younger breeders. Between 5 and 19 days of storage, yolk free body mass, liver and proventriculus + gizzard percentages decreased, as well as hatchling length and yolk efficiency (yolk absorption per initial yolk weight). The latter effects were most pronounced in the younger than in the older breeders. Therefore, eggs are preferably stored shorter than 7 d, but if long storage (≥12 days) cannot be avoided, we recommend to store eggs of older breeders when egg quality and hatchability are most important. In case hatchling quality is most important, it would be better to store eggs of younger breeders (31 weeks) for a prolonged period.

Results of hatching and rearing broiler chickens in different incubation systems

Hatchery efficiency is based on hatchability and the number of salable chicks. The hatchery sector has been seeking new alternatives to optimize production rates, including the use of different systems (multistage [MS] or single-stage [SS] machines) to improve incubation conditions. The present study aimed to compare results for hatchability, chick quality, and broiler performance of chicks from 2 incubator systems—MS and SS. The experimental design for hatchability, hatch window, egg weight loss, and chick performance variables was completely randomized with 2 treatments (MS and SS). Performance variables were analyzed as a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement (incubator type x chick sex). Egg weight loss between incubation and transfer was higher for eggs incubated in MS (P < 0.05). Hatchability was higher for eggs incubated in SS (P < 0.05), and chicks in SS had a longer hatch window (P < 0.05). Embryo diagnosis revealed higher final mortality for embryos incubated in MS (P < 0.05), as well as higher percentages of alive and dead pipped and cracked eggs (P < 0.05). Physical quality was better for chicks from SS (P < 0.05). There was no interaction between the studied factors for performance results (P > 0.05). Incubator type did not affect broiler performance for any of the studied ages (P > 0.05), whereas male broilers had better performance than females (P < 0.05). The SS incubation system proved better than the MS system at meeting embryo requirements during embryo development, with better hatching rates and chick quality, although performance variables were not influenced by incubation type.

Interactions between egg storage duration and broiler breeder age on egg fat content, chicken organ weights, and growth performance

Egg storage and breeder age are between the most important factors affecting egg lipids, chicken quality, and posthatch performance. To evaluate these factors, including their interaction, the impact of egg storage duration (5, 12, and 19 D), and breeder age (47 and 67 wk) was investigated in Arbor Acres broiler eggs and chickens. Total yolk fat content, chicken organ development at hatch and at 6 D of age, and posthatch performance (at 7 D and 35 D of age) were determined. Total fat content in fresh yolk was lower in 12 and 19 D stored eggs than in 5 D stored eggs (Δ = −2.42% on average). In hatchlings, the heart percentage was not affected by storage duration in the younger flock but was higher after 19 D than after 5 and 12 D of storage in the old flock (Δ = +0.09% on average). Residual yolk weight was higher after 12 D egg storage than after 5 D egg storage (Δ = +1.7 g), with 19 D egg storage in between. Liver and intestine percentage decreased with storage duration. Residual yolk weight (Δ = +1.09 g) and liver percentage (Δ = +0.18%) were higher in old breeders than in younger breeders. At day 6, chicken BW, yolk free body mass, liver percentage, and intestine percentage interacted between egg storage duration and breeder age with the strongest effects in chickens from older breeder after 19 D of storage. Heart percentage was lower after 19 D compared with 5 and 12 D of storage (Δ = −0.05% on average). Feed intake and feed conversion ratio were higher between day 0 to 7 and 0 to 35 after 19 D than after 5 D egg storage (Δ19-5 D = +12 g and +199 g; +0.11 points and +0.09 points, respectively). It can be concluded that when it is needed, eggs from younger breeders should be stored for a prolonged period (≥12 D) rather than those from older breeders.

Blastodermal development, hatchability and chick quality of Marshall® broiler breeders of different flock ages during egg storage

The blastoderm, which represents the fertilized germinal disc, undergoes cellular events of division, differentiation and organization to achieve embryonic development in chickens. In this study, blastodermal cell counts and hatching performance of Marshall^® broiler breeders as influenced by flock age and egg storage were investigated. A total of 1,520 eggs from the flock ages, 43 weeks (younger) and 65 weeks (older), under similar management and nutritional regime were incubated after storage at 16°C with 75% relative humidity for duration of 0 (fresh eggs), 4, 7 and 10 days. Results show that total blastodermal cell counts (BCC) for both ages declined with increasing storage duration, with a sharp regression at 4d storage from younger breeders. Higher percentages of fertility and hatchability were recorded for younger breeders compared to older breeders. Percentage hatchability was statistically similar (p > .05) for both 43 weeks and 65 weeks old broiler breeders under 0, 4 and 7d storage except at 10d storage which was lower for older breeders. Chick lengths were longer with younger breeders whereas older breeders had heavier chick weights. Also, significant associations were found between BCC and fertility, hatchability of fertile eggs and chick weights, respectively, under different conditions. These results indicate that fresh eggs (0d) and short-term stored eggs (4- and 7 d) from 43 weeks old breeders had higher total blastodermal cell counts, fertility, hatchability and increased chick lengths compared to 65 week old breeders which produced heavier chicks. Therefore, egg storage longer than 7 days especially from older breeders resulted in modifications to the blastoderm which subsequently affected fertility, hatchability, embryo liveability and hatched chick quality. Also, detection of BCC in fertile eggs can serve as a predictive tool in fertility and hatchability evaluations.

The effects of dietary Se on productive and reproductive performance, tibial quality, and antioxidant capacity in laying duck breeders

This study evaluated the optimal concentrations of dietary Se for the productive and reproductive performance, tibial quality, and antioxidant status in duck breeders aged 23 to 49 wk. In total, 432 Longyan duck breeders aged 22 wk were allotted randomly to 6 treatments, each with 6 replicates of 12 individually caged birds. The experiment lasted for 27 wk, and birds were fed corn-soybean meal-based diets containing 0.11, 0.19, 0.27, 0.35, 0.43, or 0.51 mg Se/kg, respectively. The tested dietary Se levels did not affect egg production and tibial quality of duck breeders. The Se contents of the shell, yolk or albumin, whole egg, and the fertility of set eggs increased in a linear and quadratic manner (P < 0.05) in response to the increased dietary Se level, whereas the yolk malondialdehyde (MDA) and embryonic mortality decreased. The activities of glutathione peroxidase 3 (Gpx3) in plasma and Gpx1 in the erythrocytes and livers of breeder ducks increased in a linear and quadratic manner (P < 0.05) in response to increased dietary Se levels, whereas the total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity increased and the MDA concentration decreased in the liver. The activity of Gpx3 in the plasma and Gpx1 in the erythrocytes and livers of newly hatched ducklings increased linearly (P < 0.01) with the increase in Se level, whereas the T-SOD activity and MDA concentration did not change. In conclusion, diets containing 0.27 mg Se/kg led to the highest egg fertility and hatchability in Longyan duck breeders, and using levels >0.19 mg Se/kg diet enhanced the antioxidant capacity in breeders and their offspring. The regression model indicated that dietary Se levels 0.19, 0.27, 0.28, 0.24, and 0.30 mg/kg are optimal levels to obtain maximum Se deposition efficiency in eggs, egg fertility, Gpx1 activity in erythrocytes and liver in duck breeders, and plasma activity of Gpx3 in newly hatched ducklings, respectively.