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Ncho CM, Berdos JI, Gupta V, Rahman A, Mekonnen KT, Bakhsh A. Abiotic stressors in poultry production: A comprehensive review. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2024. [PMID: 39132861 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.14032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
In modern animal husbandry, stress can be viewed as an automatic response triggered by exposure to adverse environmental conditions. This response can range from mild discomfort to severe consequences, including mortality. The poultry industry, which significantly contributes to human nutrition, is not exempt from this issue. Although genetic selection has been employed for several decades to enhance production output, it has also resulted in poor stress resilience. Stress is manifested through a series of physiological reactions, such as the identification of the stressful stimulus, activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the adrenal medulla, and subsequent hormonal cascades. While brief periods of stress can be tolerated, prolonged exposure can have more severe consequences. For instance, extreme fluctuations in environmental temperature can lead to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, impairment of reproductive performance, and reduced immunity. In addition, excessive noise in poultry slaughterhouses has been linked to altered bird behaviour and decreased production efficiency. Mechanical vibrations have also been shown to negatively impact the meat quality of broilers during transport as well as the egg quality and hatchability in hatcheries. Lastly, egg production is heavily influenced by light intensity and regimens, and inadequate light management can result in deficiencies, including visual anomalies, skeletal deformities, and circulatory problems. Although there is a growing body of evidence demonstrating the impact of environmental stressors on poultry physiology, there is a disproportionate representation of stressors in research. Recent studies have been focused on chronic heat stress, reflecting the current interest of the scientific community in climate change. Therefore, this review aims to highlight the major abiotic stressors in poultry production and elucidate their underlying mechanisms, addressing the need for a more comprehensive understanding of stress in diverse environmental contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Major Ncho
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Janine I Berdos
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Forestry, Tarlac Agricultural University, Malacampa, Tarlac, Philippines
| | - Vaishali Gupta
- Division of Applied Life Sciences (BK21 Four Program), Gyeongsang National University, Jinju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Attaur Rahman
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kefala Taye Mekonnen
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Arsi University, Asella, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Allah Bakhsh
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
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Li Y, Ma R, Qi R, Li H, Li J, Liu W, Wan Y, Li S, Sun Z, Xu J, Zhan K. Novel insight into the feed conversion ratio in laying hens and construction of its prediction model. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104013. [PMID: 39098296 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Feed efficiency (FE) is an important economic factor in poultry production, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) is one of the most widely used measures of FE. Factors associated with FCR include genetics, the environment, and other factors. However, the mechanisms responsible for FCR in chickens are still less well appreciated. In this study, we examined the pattern changes of FCR, then delved into understanding the mechanisms behind these variations from both genetic and environmental perspectives. Most interestingly, the FCR at the front section of henhouse exhibited the lowest value. Further investigation revealed that laying rate in the high FCR (HFCR) group was lower than that in the low FCR (LFCR) group (P < 0.05). Cortisol, total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), and IgG levels in the LFCR group were significantly lower than those in the HFCR group (P < 0.05), while BUN level was significantly higher than that in the HFCR group (P < 0.05). We identified a total of 67 and 10 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with FCR in ovarian and small intestine tissues, respectively. Functional enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed that they might affect FCR by modulating genes associated with salivary secretion, ferroptosis, and mineral absorption. Moreover, values for relative humidity (RH), air velocity (AV), PM2.5, ammonia (NH3), and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the LFCR group were significantly lower than those in the HFCR group (P < 0.05). Conversely, value for light intensity (LI) in the LFCR group was significantly higher than that in the HFCR group (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between FCR and RH, AV, PM2.5, NH3, and CO2, and a negative correlation with LI. Finally, the FCR prediction model was successfully constructed based on multiple environmental variables using the random forest algorithm, providing a valuable tool for predicting FCR in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Ruiyu Ma
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Renrong Qi
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Hualong Li
- Advanced Manufacturing Technology Research Center of Institute of Intelligent Machines, Hefei Institute of Physical Science, CAS, Hefei 230001 China
| | - Junying Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Yi Wan
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Sanjun Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Zhen Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036 Anhui, China
| | - Jiechi Xu
- Qianshan Tiansheng Agricultural Ecological Technology Development Co. Ltd, Qianshan, Anhui 246300, China
| | - Kai Zhan
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Product Safety Engineering, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China.
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Ribeiro LRR, Sans ECDO, Santos RM, Taconelli CA, de Farias R, Molento CFM. Will the white blood cells tell? A potential novel tool to assess broiler chicken welfare. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1384802. [PMID: 39015105 PMCID: PMC11250086 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1384802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
This study assessed qualitative and quantitative leukocyte evaluation as potential broiler chicken welfare indicators, contributing to the limited literature on white blood cell (WBC) morphology as a diagnostic tool for welfare. Broiler chicken welfare within four poultry houses (PH) 1 to 4, each on a different farm, was assessed using on-field indicators of affective states and health, and WBC morphology was examined. Affective states were evaluated using the Qualitative Behavior Assessment (QBA), with 25 behavioral expressions scored on a visual analogue scale (VAS) and grouped into two categories. Health indicators included assessments of lameness, footpad dermatitis, dermatitis on the breast and abdominal areas, hock burn, and feather cleaning. Blood samples were collected, differential leukocyte counts were performed, and a cell score was created for the recognition, classification, and interpretation of morphologic diversity of heterophils and lymphocytes. The heterophil to lymphocyte ratio (H/L) was also determined. Descriptive statistics and generalized linear models for binomial responses were used to analyze the results. PH4 differed from the other farms, showing a higher frequency of birds within QBA group 1 ('Attentive'to 'Desperate'), while birds in PH1, PH2, and PH3 were more frequent in QBA group 2 ('Relaxed' to 'Positively occupied'). Elevated proportions of heterophils in birds from PH4 (0.61, CI95%: 0.58; 0.64) and PH3 (0.60, CI95%: 0.57; 0.63) suggested higher stress levels and inflammatory responses. Birds in PH2 and PH4 exhibited higher frequencies of health issues such as dermatitis and lameness, and higher proportions of abnormalities in WBC number and morphology. PH3 and PH4 exhibited higher H/L ratios of 3.03 and 2.58, respectively, consistent with the on-field health and behavioral indicators. Blood samples from birds in PH2 and PH4 showed a proportion of 90% toxic change in heterophils, while in PH1 and PH3 it was 70%, indicating high levels of abnormal WBC morphology across all PHs. The findings emphasize the multifactorial nature of welfare impairments, including environmental conditions, health, and affective states. This highlights the need for indicators that reflect multiple welfare impacts, such as WBC counts and morphological alterations, which can serve as powerful tools in the complex task of assessing animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Raquel Rios Ribeiro
- Animal Welfare Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Roberta de Farias
- Animal Welfare Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
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Kwon BY, Lee HG, Jeon YS, Song JY, Kim SH, Kim DW, Kim CH, Lee KW. Research Note: Welfare and stress responses of broiler chickens raised in conventional and animal welfare-certified broiler farms. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103402. [PMID: 38266435 PMCID: PMC10835457 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study was conducted to assess the animal welfare status of broiler chickens raised in conventional and welfare-certified farms. One conventional farm (30,000 birds/house, 1,488 m2/house, 2 houses) and one animal welfare-certified farm (32,000 birds/house, 1,920 m2/house, 2 houses) were selected to measure productivity, stress responses, and animal welfare indicators in 3 broiler flocks (2 farms/season, n = 6 flocks/farm type) during summer, autumn, and spring. Upon farm visits, body weight, uniformity, and animal welfare indicators (i.e., fecal and feather corticosterone, footpad dermatitis, hock burn, feather dirtiness, and gait score) were measured at 26 d posthatch. Also, moisture, nitrogen, and pH of litter, light intensity, ammonia concentration, and body surface temperature of head, chest, and legs were measured. There was no difference in body weight and uniformity between farm types. Fecal corticosterone concentrations were higher (P = 0.021) in welfare-certified vs. conventional farm, but no significant difference was found in feather corticosterone. Welfare-certified vs. conventional farm had lower percentages of hock burn (P = 0.018), feather dirtiness scores (P = 0.009), and gait score (P = 0.040), and there was no difference in footpad dermatitis. Nitrogen content in litter samples tended to be higher in conventional vs. welfare-certified farms (P = 0.094), and there was no difference in moisture and pH between farm types. Ammonia concentration within the broiler houses was not different between 2 farms. However, animal welfare farm was found to be brighter than conventional farm (P < 0.001). The body surface temperature of head, chest, and legs was not different between farm types. In conclusion, the welfare-certified farm had higher welfare measures, including lower hock burn, feather dirtiness, and gait score, confirming an overall improvement in welfare indicators. However, the observation on the elevated feather corticosterone noted in welfare vs. conventionally raised chickens warrants further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byung-Yeon Kwon
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sanghuh College of Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, South Korea
| | - Hyun-Gwan Lee
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sanghuh College of Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, South Korea
| | - Yong-Sung Jeon
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sanghuh College of Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, South Korea
| | - Ju-Yong Song
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sanghuh College of Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, South Korea
| | - Sang-Ho Kim
- K-AniWel, Gwonseon-gu, Suwon 16672, South Korea
| | - Dong-Wook Kim
- Department of Livestock, Korea National University of Agriculture and Fisheries, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju 54874, South Korea
| | - Chan-Ho Kim
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National Institute of Animal Science, Iseo-myeon, Wanju 55365 South Korea
| | - Kyung-Woo Lee
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sanghuh College of Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, South Korea.
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5
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Flees JJ, Keel AJ, Gregg CR, Starkey CW, Starkey JD. Effects of light intensity and reduction of starter diet digestible lysine and metabolizable energy on broiler chicken growth performance, breast meat yield, and meat quality defects. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103222. [PMID: 37980732 PMCID: PMC10685017 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The etiology of Wooden Breast (WB) is unknown; therefore, it is difficult to produce broiler flocks with similar proportions of WB-affected and unaffected birds. Because WB has been detected as early as 15 d posthatch, the objective of this randomized complete block experiment with a 2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement was to determine whether combining the effects of light intensity (LI) and early nutrient reduction strategies could reliably produce WB-affected and normal broilers to further investigate the physiological mechanisms underlying WB. On day of hatch, male, Ross 708 × Yield Plus broilers (n = 384; 16 birds per pen; 3 replicate blocks) were randomly allotted to floor pens in the same facility and exposed to either 2 (LOWLI) or 30 (HIGHLI) lux of light from d 0 to 35. Birds were fed either a commercial starter diet (CON) or the CON diet with a 10% reduction in both ME and digestible lysine (dLys; RED) from d 0 to 14 and then a common grower diet from d 15 to 35. Broiler growth performance, breast yield, and incidence and severity of WB and White Striping (WS) were assessed. Data were analyzed as a 2-way ANOVA with SAS PROC GLIMMIX and means separated at P < 0.05 with PDIFF. No interaction among LI and diet was observed (P > 0.05). Broilers reared with HIGHLI were heavier on d 35 and consumed more feed in all phases compared with broilers reared under LOWLI (P ≤ 0.0096). Broilers reared under LOWLI gained less BW from d 15 to 35 and d 0 to 35 compared with broilers reared under HIGHLI (P = 0.0073). Broilers fed the RED starter diet consumed more feed and had higher FCR from d 0 to 14 compared with broilers fed the CON diet (P ≤ 0.0012). In conclusion, combining reductions in LI and starter diet ME and dLys did not produce the hypothesized reductions in breast yield and incidence and severity of WB or WS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua J Flees
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - A Jacob Keel
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Caroline R Gregg
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Charles W Starkey
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Jessica D Starkey
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
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6
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Gratta F, Bošković Cabrol M, Xiccato G, Birolo M, Bordignon F, Trocino A. Effect of light restriction on productive results and behavior of broiler chickens. Poult Sci 2023; 102:103084. [PMID: 37826901 PMCID: PMC10568561 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to evaluate the effect of light restriction (18L:6D vs. 14L:10D), genotype (A vs. B), and sex on performance, behavior, and meat quality, and the occurrence of wooden breast (WB) and white striping (WS) in broiler chickens. To this purpose 704 one-day-old chickens of 2 genotypes, half males and half females, were reared from hatching until slaughtering at 45 d of age in 32 collective pens (22 chickens per pen). Light restriction reduced growth rate and final live weight (LW), but improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.01) and reduced inactive behaviors of chickens (P < 0.001). Light restriction also reduced WS occurrence in breasts (89.5 to 64.6%; P < 0.001) and reduced meat shear force (2.64 to 2.20 kg/g; P < 0.05) and ether extract content (2.29 to 1.87%; P < 0.05). Regarding genotype, compared to genotype B, chickens of genotype A were heavier (3,242 g vs. 3,124 g; P < 0.01) with higher cold carcass weight and Pectoralis major muscle yield (12.9 vs. 12.0%; P < 0.001) and a higher FCR (1.63 vs. 1.61; P < 0.01). Finally, females had lower final LW (2,852 g vs. 3,513 g) and higher FCR (1.64 vs. 1.59) than males (P < 0.001), but a higher proportion of breast and P. major (P < 0.001), lower cooking losses (P < 0.001) and shear force (P < 0.01), and higher protein content (21.6 vs. 20.7%; P < 0.001). In conclusion, light restriction depressed growth, but was effective in decreasing WS occurrence and improved feed conversion. The decrease in inactive behaviors (sitting/laying) of light-restricted chickens can be positively considered in view of animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Gratta
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Bošković Cabrol
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - G Xiccato
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Birolo
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - F Bordignon
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Trocino
- Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy; Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy.
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Choppa VSR, Kim WK. A Review on Pathophysiology, and Molecular Mechanisms of Bacterial Chondronecrosis and Osteomyelitis in Commercial Broilers. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1032. [PMID: 37509068 PMCID: PMC10377700 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Modern day broilers have a great genetic potential to gain heavy bodyweights with a huge metabolic demand prior to their fully mature ages. Moreover, this made the broilers prone to opportunistic pathogens which may enter the locomotory organs under stress causing bacterial chondronecrosis and osteomyelitis (BCO). Such pathogenic colonization is further accelerated by microfractures and clefts that are formed in the bones due to rapid growth rate of the broilers along with ischemia of blood vessels. Furthermore, there are several pathways which alter bone homeostasis like acute phase response, and intrinsic and extrinsic cell death pathways. In contrast, all the affected birds may not exhibit clinical lameness even with the presence of lameness associated factors causing infection. Although Staphylococcus, E. coli, and Enterococcus are considered as common bacterial pathogens involved in BCO, but there exist several other non-culturable bacteria. Any deviation from maintaining a homeostatic environment in the gut might lead to bacterial translocation through blood followed by proliferation of pathogenic bacteria in respective organs including bones. It is important to alleviate dysbiosis of the blood which is analogous to dysbiosis in the gut. This can be achieved by supplementing pro, pre, and synbiotics which helps in providing a eubiotic environment abating the bacterial translocation that was studied to the incidence of BCO. This review focused on potential and novel biomarkers, pathophysiological mechanism, the economic significance of BCO, immune mechanisms, and miscellaneous factors causing BCO. In addition, the role of gut microbiomes along with their diversity and cell culture models from compact bones of chicken in better understanding of BCO were explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Woo Kyun Kim
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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Wlaźlak S, Pietrzak E, Biesek J, Dunislawska A. Modulation of the immune system of chickens a key factor in maintaining poultry production-a review. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102785. [PMID: 37267642 PMCID: PMC10244701 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The awareness of poultry production safety is constantly increasing. The safety of poultry production is defined as biosecurity and the health status of birds. Hence the constant pursuit of developing new strategies in this area is necessary. Biosecurity is an element of good production practices that ensures adequate hygiene and maintaining the health status of poultry production. Poultry production is the world leader among all livestock species. Producers face many challenges during rearing, which depend on the utility type, the direction of use, and consumer requirements. For many years, the aim was to increase production results. Increasing attention is paid to the quality of the raw material and its safety. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure hygiene status during production. It can affect the immune system's functioning and birds' health status. Feed, water, and environmental conditions, including light, gases, dust, and temperature, play an essential role in poultry production. This review aims to look for stimulators and modulators of the poultry immune system while affecting the biosecurity of poultry production. Such challenges in current research by scientists aim to respond to the challenges posed as part of the One Health concept. The reviewed issues are a massive potential for an innovative approach to poultry production and related risks as part of the interaction of the animal-human ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Wlaźlak
- Department of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz 85-084, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Pietrzak
- Department of Animal Biotechnology and Genetics, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz 85-084, Poland
| | - Jakub Biesek
- Department of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz 85-084, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Dunislawska
- Department of Animal Biotechnology and Genetics, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz 85-084, Poland.
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt CG, Herskin MS, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Tiemann I, de Jong I, Gebhardt‐Henrich SG, Keeling L, Riber AB, Ashe S, Candiani D, García Matas R, Hempen M, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Rojo Gimeno C, Van der Stede Y, Vitali M, Bailly‐Caumette E, Michel V. Welfare of broilers on farm. EFSA J 2023; 21:e07788. [PMID: 36824680 PMCID: PMC9941850 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.7788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This Scientific Opinion considers the welfare of domestic fowl (Gallus gallus) related to the production of meat (broilers) and includes the keeping of day-old chicks, broiler breeders, and broiler chickens. Currently used husbandry systems in the EU are described. Overall, 19 highly relevant welfare consequences (WCs) were identified based on severity, duration and frequency of occurrence: 'bone lesions', 'cold stress', 'gastro-enteric disorders', 'group stress', 'handling stress', 'heat stress', 'isolation stress', 'inability to perform comfort behaviour', 'inability to perform exploratory or foraging behaviour', 'inability to avoid unwanted sexual behaviour', 'locomotory disorders', 'prolonged hunger', 'prolonged thirst', 'predation stress', 'restriction of movement', 'resting problems', 'sensory under- and overstimulation', 'soft tissue and integument damage' and 'umbilical disorders'. These WCs and their animal-based measures (ABMs) that can identify them are described in detail. A variety of hazards related to the different husbandry systems were identified as well as ABMs for assessing the different WCs. Measures to prevent or correct the hazards and/or mitigate each of the WCs are listed. Recommendations are provided on quantitative or qualitative criteria to answer specific questions on the welfare of broilers and related to genetic selection, temperature, feed and water restriction, use of cages, light, air quality and mutilations in breeders such as beak trimming, de-toeing and comb dubbing. In addition, minimal requirements (e.g. stocking density, group size, nests, provision of litter, perches and platforms, drinkers and feeders, of covered veranda and outdoor range) for an enclosure for keeping broiler chickens (fast-growing, slower-growing and broiler breeders) are recommended. Finally, 'total mortality', 'wounds', 'carcass condemnation' and 'footpad dermatitis' are proposed as indicators for monitoring at slaughter the welfare of broilers on-farm.
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10
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Wu Y, Zhou X, Wang M, Wang W, Yang Y. Effect of light intensity on growth performance and bone development of tibia in broilers. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2023; 107:192-199. [PMID: 35060202 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Light management affects the health outcomes and growth performance of broiler chickens. However, the effects of different light intensities on growth performance and its association with tibia development of broilers remain unclear. In the present study, 462 Ross male broilers were divided into seven treatment groups with 6 replicates (11 birds per replicate), and then were subjected to different light intensity levels (0.5, 2, 5, 7, 9, 13 or 19 Lx) for 42 days. The results demonstrated that broilers under lower light intensity (2, 5Lx) obtained higher body weight (p < 0.05) and feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05). Lower light intensity exposure had no effects on the length, width, weight, breaking strength and the mineral density of the tibia (p > 0.05), but led to increased ash content and phosphorus during the starter phase (p < 0.05). Also, plasma levels of calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and alkaline phosphatase were increased in response to lower light intensity conditions (p < 0.05), but decreased under higher light intensity (p < 0.05), indicating dynamic mineral metabolic and depositional activity to light intensity. In addition, broilers exposed to lower intensity (0.5 Lx, 2 Lx and 5 Lx) during the starter phase had decreased hypertrophic chondrocytes (p < 0.05), but did not affect resting zone chondrocytes and proliferative chondrocytes of the growth plate (p > 0.05). In contrast, the light intensity did not affect the growth performance and the development of the tibia of broilers during the finishing phase. In summary, we demonstrated that lower light intensity promoted the growth performance and the bone development of broilers. Application of lower light intensity at the starter phase might be a management strategy for broiler industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiumin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Mengmeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenyu Wang
- Nantong Tiancheng Modern Agricultural Technology Co. Ltd., Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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11
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Description of Light Environment in Broiler Breeder Houses with Different Light Sources-And How It Differs from Natural Forest Light. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12233408. [PMID: 36496928 PMCID: PMC9737624 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Light is a key factor in poultry production; however, there is still a lack of knowledge as to describing the light quality, how to measure the light environment as perceived by birds, and how artificial light compares with the light in the natural forest habitats of their wild ancestors. The aim of this study was to describe the light environment in broiler breeder houses with three different light sources, using two different methods of light assessment. We also aimed to compare an artificial light environment with the light in a range of relevant natural forest habitats. A total of 9 commercial broiler breeder houses with one of three different light sources-Lumilux 830 CFL (n = 3), Biolux 965 CFL (n = 3) or LED Evolys with UVA (n = 3) were visited. Assessments of the light environment in the breeder houses were conducted using both a spectrometer and the environmental light field (ELF) method. ELF measurements from three forest types in south India (Kerala) were also included. We found that most aspects of the light environment were similar between the nine breeder houses and were not dependent on the type of light sources. The only clear difference related to the light source was the spectral balance, wherein 830 CFL had the most red-dominated light, 965 CFL had the most blue-dominated light and Evolys was intermediate but with more UV than the latter two. Plumage color had minimal effect on the light environment. Both the spectrometer and the ELF method provided valuable information. The spectrometer gave detailed values about certain aspects of the light environment, while the ELF described the light more in line with human and avian visual perception. We also found that the light environment in the investigated broiler breeder houses differs dramatically in all measured aspects from the natural light habitats of wild junglefowl, suggesting improvement possibilities in artificial lighting systems.
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12
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Linhoss JE, Davis JD, Campbell JC, Purswell JL, Griggs KG, Edge CM. Comparison of commercial broiler house lighting programs using LED and natural light: Part 1 – spatial and temporal analysis of light intensity. J APPL POULTRY RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2022.100272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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13
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Tan Z, Sun J, Liu X, Liu J, Wang S. Interactions between color and intensity of LED light on growth performance, serum biochemical profile, immune response variable, and nutrient apparent utilization in broiler chicken. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13717. [PMID: 35445771 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of light-emitting diode (LED) color and intensity of broilers. One-day-old Cobb-500 broilers (n = 648) were fed nine groups with six replicates; three light colors (white, blue, & green) and intensities (for 1 to 7 days, viz., 20, 40, and 60 lx; for 8 to 42 days, viz., 5, 10, and 15 lx) were applied. Test lasted for 42 days. Results indicated that compared with blue light, 60-lx white light for 1 to 7 days increased the average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of broilers (p < 0.01). In the 10-lx light groups, the levels of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and the concentrations of albumin (ALB) (p < 0.05) increased. Moreover, the nutrient apparent utilization for ether extract (EE) under 10-lx green light was higher than that under 15-lx blue light (p < 0.01). The interaction effects of light intensity and light color had an extremely significant influence on the ADG for 1 to 7 days, IL-2 level, ALB content, and EE apparent utilization rate (p < 0.01) and had a significant influence on the ADFI and F/G for 1 to 7 days (p < 0.05). The production performance of broilers reared in three-layer cage could be improved by using 60-lx white LED light for 1 to 7 days and 5- to 10-lx green LED light or 10-lx white LED light for 8 to 42 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichao Tan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jinling Sun
- College of Science and Information, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jie Liu
- College of Science and Information, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shubai Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
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14
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Impact of light intensity or choice of intensity on broiler performance and behavior. J APPL POULTRY RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2021.100216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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15
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Ogbonna AC, Chaudhry AS, Asher L. Effect of Dietary Vitamin D3 and Ultraviolet B Light on Growth Performance, Blood Serum Parameters, Gut Histology, and Welfare Indicators of Broilers. FRONTIERS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fanim.2021.806967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stressors are commonly encountered by all farmed species, including chickens, but the impact of these stressors on the animal and their productivity can be influenced by the environmental conditions in which they are kept. This study investigated the effects of dietary vitamin D3 (vitD3) and ultraviolet light (UVB) on growth performance, organ weight, serum corticosterone levels (CORT), serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-OH-D3) status, gut histology, and welfare indicators of broiler chickens challenged with social isolation stress. One day (d) old Ross 308 broiler chicks (n = 192) were individually weighed, wing-tagged, and allocated to non-isolated (control) and isolated groups; control birds were never isolated, while isolated birds were subjected to regular sessions of social isolation for about 15-min periods over the course of 3 d a week for 2 weeks starting from d 10 (1.30 h total exposure) with inter treatment interval of 48 h. Birds were treated with either dietary vitD3 at 4,000 IU/kg (HD) or UVB light (UVB). The UVB lamp (24 Watt 12% UVB D3, 55 cm) with wavelength: 280–315 nm, intensity; 28.12 μW/cm2 hung 50 cm above the substrate was used for the broilers in all the treatment groups but were filtered to remove UVB in the HD group. Growth performance measure; body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were estimated at the end of starter (day 10), grower (day 24), and finisher periods (day 38). Broilers were feather and gait scored to measure welfare at 22/35 and 24/37 days of age, respectively. The selected birds were weighed and euthanized to obtain serum to determine 25-OH-D3 and CORT levels, GIT weights, and gut histology. Subjecting the birds to 2-week social isolation (for 15 min, three times per week) increased CORT levels but did not alter GP and 25-OH-D3 levels of broilers. However, UVB-treated broilers demonstrated better welfare, duodenal absorptive capacity, and reduced FCR compared to HD chickens. Results suggest some beneficial effects of UVB lighting on welfare indicators and the potential to support early life growth of commercial broilers reared indoors, which are often challenged with stressors.
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16
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Influence of Light Supplement on Duck Sternal Calcification from Integrated Analysis of Metabolome and Transcriptome. Poult Sci 2022; 101:101697. [PMID: 35176705 PMCID: PMC8851249 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.101697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcification of bones is the critical process of bone development in birds, which is very important for sustaining the normal biological function of bones. Light is one of the vital factors affecting bone development, but whether light intensity affects bone calcification and the underlying mechanism is still unknown. In this study, we used duck sternum as a model to analyze the calcification process under different light regimes. In addition, the underlying mechanism was also illustrated by integrating metabolomics and transcriptome methods. The experiment lasted from 14 to 51 d of duck age. The control group (LP1) kept light intensity 2 lx during the whole experiment. The two light supplement groups (LP2, LP3) were given light with the intensity of 70 lx at different time (14–29 d for LP2, 14–43 d for LP3). Samples were collected at 52 d of duck age. Sternal calcification analysis showed no significant difference in proportion of area of cartilage matrix and trabecular bone in keel tissue among the 3 groups, but the degree of keel calcification in LP3 was higher than in the other 2 groups. Serum metabolomics showed 32 and 28 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) in the 2 comparison groups, LP1 vs. LP3 and LP1 vs. LP2, respectively. Carboxylic acids and derivatives were the most abundant among the DAMs. Sternal transcriptome analysis showed 231 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 177 upregulated genes and 54 downregulated genes in group LP1 vs. LP3, and 22 DEGs in group LP1 vs. LP2. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis on DEGs between LP1 and LP3 showed that genes BTRC, GLI1, BMP4, and FOS were in the core position of the interaction network, and are also involved in bone development. KEGG pathway analysis of DAMs and DEGs showed that differences in Hedgehog signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, apoptosis, energy metabolism, and amino acid metabolism following light treatment seem likely to have contributed to the observed difference in calcification of duck sternum.
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Sans ECDO, Tuyttens FAM, Taconeli CA, Pedrazzani AS, Vale MM, Molento CFM. From the Point of View of the Chickens: What Difference Does a Window Make? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3397. [PMID: 34944173 PMCID: PMC8698106 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate what broiler chickens prefer when given free choice between a barn side with artificial lighting only as opposed to the other barn side with natural light through glass windows and artificial light. Eighty-five 1 day-old male Cobb 500 broiler chickens were divided into 10 pens; half of each pen area was provided with only artificial light (OAL) and the other half with natural and artificial light (NAL), and birds were free to move across sides. Environmental indicators and external conditions such as temperature, relative humidity, air velocity, ammonia and illuminance were monitored inside and outside the barn. Chickens' preference was registered each three days, divided in categories: I (at 9, 12, and 15 days), II (at 18, 21, 24, and 27 days), and III (at 30, 33 and 36 days). The effect of the interaction between environmental indicators and week was statistically different only for illuminance. Chickens preferred NAL to OAL from 18 days onwards (II p < 0.001; III p = 0.016). Drinking (p = 0.034) and exploration or locomotion (p = 0.042) behaviours were more frequent, and "not visible" behaviours (p < 0.001) were less frequent, in NAL. Foraging was the only behaviour with an interaction effect between age category and light treatment, as birds during period II expressed this behaviour more frequently in NAL than OAL (p = 0.003). For our experimental conditions, the chickens preferred NAL from 18 days of age onwards, when the confounding effect of the heating light was removed, and their behavioural repertoire was also different according to each side of the barn and to their ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Cristina de Oliveira Sans
- Animal Welfare Laboratory, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba 80035-050, Paraná, Brazil; (A.S.P.); (C.F.M.M.)
| | - Frank André Maurice Tuyttens
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Scheldeweg 68, 9090 Melle, Belgium;
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Cesar Augusto Taconeli
- Department of Statistics, Federal University of Paraná, Rua Evaristo F. Ferreira da Costa, 408, Curitiba 81531-990, Paraná, Brazil;
| | - Ana Silvia Pedrazzani
- Animal Welfare Laboratory, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba 80035-050, Paraná, Brazil; (A.S.P.); (C.F.M.M.)
| | - Marcos Martinez Vale
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba 80035-050, Paraná, Brazil;
| | - Carla Forte Maiolino Molento
- Animal Welfare Laboratory, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba 80035-050, Paraná, Brazil; (A.S.P.); (C.F.M.M.)
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18
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Wu Y, Huang J, Quan S, Yang Y. Light regimen on health and growth of broilers: an update review. Poult Sci 2021; 101:101545. [PMID: 34823171 PMCID: PMC8626679 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of lighting regimen is increasing with the industrialization of poultry production, as lighting has been intimately associated with not only the establishment of rhythm and synchronous physiology of broiler chickens, but also the secretion of hormones associated with broiler maturation and growth. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the effects of lighting management on growth performance, immune status, and welfare of broilers. An appropriate lighting regimen, including proper source of lighting, intensity, duration, and wavelength (color) of light, is crucial to improve the growth performance and welfare of broilers. In this review, we updated the impacts of different light regimens on health and growth performance of broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jingxi Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shuli Quan
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
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19
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Kang SW. Central Nervous System Associated With Light Perception and Physiological Responses of Birds. Front Physiol 2021; 12:723454. [PMID: 34744764 PMCID: PMC8566752 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.723454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental light that animal receives (i.e., photoperiod and light intensity) has recently been shown that it affects avian central nervous system for the physiological responses to the environment by up or downregulation of dopamine and serotonin activities, and this, in turn, affects the reproductive function and stress-related behavior of birds. In this study, the author speculated on the intriguing possibility that one of the proposed avian deep-brain photoreceptors (DBPs), i.e., melanopsin (Opn4), may play roles in the dual sensory-neurosecretory cells in the hypothalamus, midbrain, and brain stem for the behavior and physiological responses of birds by light. Specifically, the author has shown that the direct light perception of premammillary nucleus dopamine-melatonin (PMM DA-Mel) neurons is associated with the reproductive activation in birds. Although further research is required to establish the functional role of Opn4 in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), dorsal raphe nucleus, and caudal raphe nucleus in the light perception and physiological responses of birds, it is an exciting prospect because the previous results in birds support this hypothesis that Opn4 in the midbrain DA and serotonin neurons may play significant roles on the light-induced welfare of birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong W. Kang
- Department of Poultry Science, Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
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20
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Abo Ghanima MM, Abd El-Hack ME, Abougabal MS, Taha AE, Tufarelli V, Laudadio V, Naiel MAE. Growth, carcass traits, immunity and oxidative status of broilers exposed to continuous or intermittent lighting programs. Anim Biosci 2021; 34:1243-1252. [PMID: 32882771 PMCID: PMC8255881 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.20.0328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An experiment was conducted to investigate the continuous and intermittent lighting program effects on terms of the productive performance, carcass traits, blood biochemical parameters, innate immune and oxidative status in broiler chicks. METHODS A total of 600 Cobb-500 one day old chicks were randomly allocated into six equal groups (100 chicks per treated group with five replicates of 20 chicks each) based on lighting program; 22 continuous lighting (22 C), 11 h lighting+1 darkness twice daily (11 L/1 D), 20 h continuous lighting (20 C), 5 h lighting+1 darkness four times daily (5 L/1 D), 18 h continuous lighting (18 C) and the final group subjected for 3 h lighting+1 h darkness six times daily (3 L/1 D). The experimental period lasted 42 days. RESULTS Compared with those under the intermittent light program, broiler chicks exposed to continuous lighting for 22 h had significant improvement in live body weight and carcass (dressing and breast percentage) measured traits. Though reducing lighting hours significantly reduced feed intake and feed conversion ratio values. Different lighting programs revealed no significant effect on all blood biochemical parameters. Oxidative stress and innate immunity parameters significantly enhance by reducing lighting hours (3L/1D). CONCLUSION The findings suggest that reducing lighting hours up to 3L/1D would be more useful in enhancing feed efficiency, innate immunity, and oxidative status compared with continuous lighting programs on broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud M. Abo Ghanima
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511,
Egypt
| | | | - Mohammed Sh. Abougabal
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11754,
Egypt
| | - Ayman E. Taha
- Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Rasheed, Edfina 22758,
Egypt
| | - Vincenzo Tufarelli
- Department of DETO, Section of Veterinary Science and Animal Production, University of Bari ‘Aldo Moro’, 70010 Bari,
Italy
| | - Vito Laudadio
- Department of DETO, Section of Veterinary Science and Animal Production, University of Bari ‘Aldo Moro’, 70010 Bari,
Italy
| | - Mohammed A. E. Naiel
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511,
Egypt
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21
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Abo-Al-Ela HG, El-Kassas S, El-Naggar K, Abdo SE, Jahejo AR, Al Wakeel RA. Stress and immunity in poultry: light management and nanotechnology as effective immune enhancers to fight stress. Cell Stress Chaperones 2021; 26:457-472. [PMID: 33847921 PMCID: PMC8065079 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-021-01204-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The poultry industry plays a significant role in boosting the economy of several countries, particularly developing countries, and acts as a good, cheap, and affordable source of animal protein. A stress-free environment is the main target in poultry production. There are several stressors, such as cold stress, heat stress, high stocking density, and diseases that can affect birds and cause several deleterious changes. Stress reduces feed intake and growth, as well as impairs immune response and function, resulting in high disease susceptibility. These effects are correlated with higher corticosteroid levels that modulate several immune pathways such as cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and Toll-like receptor signaling along with induction of excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thus oxidative stress. Several approaches have been considered to boost bird immunity to overcome stress-associated effects. Of these, dietary supplementation of certain nutrients and management modifications, such as light management, are commonly considered. Dietary supplementations improve bird immunity by improving the development of lymphoid tissues and triggering beneficial immune modulators and responses. Since nano-minerals have higher bioavailability compared to inorganic or organic forms, they are highly recommended to be included in the bird's diet during stress. Additionally, light management is considered a cheap and safe approach to control stress. Changing light from continuous to intermittent and using monochromatic light instead of the normal light improve bird performance and health. Such changes in light management are associated with a reduction of ROS production and increased antioxidant production. In this review, we discuss the impact of stress on the immune system of birds and the transcriptome of oxidative stress and immune-related genes, in addition, how nano-minerals supplementations and light system modulate or mitigate stress-associated effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitham G Abo-Al-Ela
- Genetics and Biotechnology, Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fish Resources, Suez University, Suez, 43518, Egypt.
| | - Seham El-Kassas
- Animal, Poultry and Fish Breeding and Production, Department of Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, 33516, Egypt.
| | - Karima El-Naggar
- Department of Nutrition and Veterinary Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina, 22758, Egypt
| | - Safaa E Abdo
- Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Department of Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Ali Raza Jahejo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Rasha A Al Wakeel
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
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Sans ECDO, Tuyttens FAM, Taconeli CA, Rueda PM, Ciocca JR, Molento CFM. Welfare of broiler chickens reared in two different industrial house types during the winter season in Southern Brazil. Br Poult Sci 2021; 62:621-631. [PMID: 33769158 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2021.1908519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
1. The following trial compared broiler chicken welfare in closed-sided (CS) versus open-sided (OS) industrial house types during the winter season in the South of Brazil.2. Ten flocks in each house type were evaluated as follows: a) bird health: contact dermatitis on the breast and abdominal areas (CDE), bird soiling (BSO), footpad dermatitis (FPD), hock burn (HBU), lameness (LAM), fractures (FRA), bruising (BRU), scratches (SCR), dead on arrival (DOA), and diseases (DIS); b) house environmental measurements: relative humidity (RHU), temperature (TEM), air velocity (AVE), illuminance (ILL), ammonia concentration (NH3), and carbon dioxide concentration (CO2), and c) bird behaviour and affective states: bird behaviour (BBE), touch test (TTE), and qualitative behaviour assessment (QBA).3. Statistical analyses were based on regression models for CDE, BSO, FPD, HBU, LAM and generalised linear models for DOA, FRA, BRU, SCR, and DIS. The Mann-Whitney test was used for RHU, TEM, AVE, ILL, NH3, CO2, and the t-test for TTE and LMO, with a specific regression model for BBE data and Principal Component Analysis for QBA.4. According to odds ratio for worse scores for CS relative to OS, birds were less likely to have severe scores for CDE (P = 0.040 and P = 0.007), BSO (P = 0.031, P = 0.016, and P = 0.038), and HBU (P = 0.017), and had higher median values for AVE (2.3, 0.0-7.8 m s-1 vs. 0.0, 0.0-4.3 m s-1), lower NH3 concentration (9.0, 0.0-64.0 ppm vs. 12.0, 0.0-60.0 ppm) and TTE scores (98, 96-100 vs. 67, 25-100). Worse results were observed in CS houses for higher stocking density (13.8 ± 0.2 birds/m2 vs. 12.0 ± 0.2 birds/m2), RHU (74.5, 50.7-99.9% vs 72.3, 47.4-99.9%), and TEM (23.9, 14.6-29.2°C vs. 21.7, 12.9-30.1°C), lower ILL (16.0, 1.0-60.0 lx vs. 161.0, 8.0-2380.0 lx), less drinking (P = 0.007), more inactive behaviour (P < 0.001) and lower positive emotions, according to QBA (P = 0.028).5. In the studied region and season, CS houses seemed to offer fewer welfare problems in terms of the health indicators; however, OS houses showed fewer behavioural restrictions and higher positive emotional states.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C D O Sans
- Animal Welfare Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - F A M Tuyttens
- Animal Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Melle, Belgium.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - C A Taconeli
- Department of Statistics, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - P M Rueda
- Department of Farm Animals, World Animal Protection, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - J R Ciocca
- Department of Farm Animals, World Animal Protection, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C F M Molento
- Animal Welfare Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
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23
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Chang CWT, Takemoto JY, Chang PE, AlFindee MN, Lin YY. Effects of Mesobiliverdin IXα-Enriched Microalgae Feed on Gut Health and Microbiota of Broilers. Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:586813. [PMID: 33553275 PMCID: PMC7854538 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.586813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) links to animal medicinal feed and antibiotic-resistance are fueling major economic impacts in the agricultural livestock industry. New animal feeds that promote livestock gut health and control of IBDs without antibiotics are needed. This study investigates the effects of mesobiliverdin IXα (MBV)-enriched microalgae spirulina extracts on the growth performance, blood parameters, intestinal morphology, and gut microbiota of broilers. A total of 288 1-day-old broiler chicks (Arbor Acres) were randomly allotted to six dietary treatments (4 pens/treatment and 12 birds/pen). The dietary treatments comprised a basal diet as control (CON), basal diet plus 0.05 and 0.1% microalgae extract as low and high dose, respectively (SP1 and SP2), basal diet plus 0.05 and 0.1% MBV-enriched microalgae extract as low and high dose, respectively (MBV-SP1 and MBV-SP2), and basal diet plus 0.1% amoxicillin (AMX). All treated animals showed no significant differences in live weight, average daily gain, and feed efficiency compared to control animals. Histological examination showed that AMX treatment decreased the villi lengths of the duodenum and ileum below control villi length (P < 0.05) while MBV-SP1 and particularly MBV-SP2 increased villi lengths in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum above AMX -treatment lengths (P < 0.05). The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio increased in the cecum of broilers fed AMX (P < 0.05) while SP2, MBV-SP1, and MBV-SP2-fed animals showed (in order) increasing ratios up to the AMX level. The abundance of bacterial species of the genus Lactobacillus increased in MBV-SP1 and MBV-SP2-fed groups including a striking increase in Lactobacillus salivarius abundance with MBV-SP2 (P < 0.05). Feeding MBV-SP1 and MBV-SP2 decreased the level of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 in plasma of broilers to a greater extent than SP1 and SP2. These results reveal that MBV-enriched microalgae extracts improve the intestinal health and beneficial microflora composition of broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Wei T Chang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | - Jon Y Takemoto
- Department of Biology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | - Pei-En Chang
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Madher N AlFindee
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Utah State University, Logan, UT, United States
| | - Yuan-Yu Lin
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan
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24
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Mohammed AA, Zaki RS, Negm EA, Mahmoud MA, Cheng HW. Effects of dietary supplementation of a probiotic (Bacillus subtilis) on bone mass and meat quality of broiler chickens. Poult Sci 2020; 100:100906. [PMID: 33518351 PMCID: PMC7936156 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.11.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a dietary probiotic supplement on bone mass and meat quality of broiler chickens. Two hundred ten 1-day-old male Ross 708 broiler chicks were divided among 21 floor pens (10 chicks per pen). The pens were randomly distributed to 1 of 3 dietary treatments containing a probiotic, Bacillus subtilis, at 0 (control), 0.25 (0.25X), and 0.5 (0.5X) g/kg (n = 7). Gait score, footpad dermatitis (FPD), leg straightness, and hock burn (HB) were examined at day 33, and a latency-to-lie test was performed at day 34. At the end of the experiment (day 35), plasma, right leg, and litter samples were collected for mineral contents, meat quality, bone morphometric parameters, and litter quality assessments. The results indicated that probiotic-fed birds stood much longer during the latency-to-lie test with a greater tibial length, weight, and strength as well as higher plasma levels of calcium and phosphorus compared with the controls. In addition, probiotic-fed birds' leg muscle had higher color lightness at both 30 min and 5 h postmortem and greater water-holding capacity with a trend for less cooking loss (P = 0.056) and lower pH values (P < 0.05) at 5 h postmortem. Probiotic-fed birds' leg meat was tastier (P < 0.05) at 24 h after slaughter. These probiotic effects were greater in the 0.5X group than in the 0.25X group. There were no treatment effects on other measured parameters including gait score, HB, FPD, tibial lateral and medial wall thickness, diaphysis and medullary canal diameters, robusticity and tibiotarsal indexes, plasma magnesium concentrations, and litter moisture and pH values (P > 0.05). These findings indicate that the probiotic supplement could be a useful management tool for improving broiler production and welfare by enhanced bone mass and meat quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Mohammed
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Department of Animal and Poultry Behavior and Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71526, Egypt.
| | - R S Zaki
- Department of Meat Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, New Valley University, New Valley 72711, Egypt
| | - E A Negm
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71526, Egypt
| | - M A Mahmoud
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71526, Egypt
| | - H W Cheng
- USDA Agricultural Research Service, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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Hofmann T, Schmucker SS, Bessei W, Grashorn M, Stefanski V. Impact of Housing Environment on the Immune System in Chickens: A Review. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1138. [PMID: 32635616 PMCID: PMC7401558 DOI: 10.3390/ani10071138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During their lifespan, chickens are confronted with a wide range of acute and chronic stressors in their housing environment that may threaten their welfare and health by modulating the immune system. Especially chronic stressful conditions can exceed the individual's allostatic load, with negative consequences for immunity. A fully functional immune system is mandatory for health and welfare and, consequently, also for high productivity and safe animal products. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of housing form, light regime as well as aerial ammonia and hydrogen sulfide concentrations on the immune system in chickens. Certain housing conditions are clearly associated with immunological alterations which potentially impair the success of vaccinations or affect disease susceptibility. Such poor conditions counteract sustainable poultry production. This review also outlines current knowledge gaps and provides recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Hofmann
- Department of Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;
| | - Sonja S. Schmucker
- Department of Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;
| | - Werner Bessei
- Department of Livestock Population Genomics, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; (W.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Michael Grashorn
- Department of Livestock Population Genomics, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; (W.B.); (M.G.)
| | - Volker Stefanski
- Department of Behavioral Physiology of Livestock, Institute of Animal Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr, 17, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;
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Weimer SL, Wideman RF, Scanes CG, Mauromoustakos A, Christensen KD, Vizzier-Thaxton Y. Broiler stress responses to light intensity, flooring type, and leg weakness as assessed by heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratios, serum corticosterone, infrared thermography, and latency to lie. Poult Sci 2020; 99:3301-3311. [PMID: 32616223 PMCID: PMC7597826 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress and leg weakness are detrimental to broiler production, health, and welfare. Traditional methods to evaluate stress may be stressful to the bird because they are invasive and require handling and restraint. Two studies examined the effects of light intensity and flooring on the following in broilers: 1) traditional methods for assessing stress using heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratios and serum corticosterone (CORT) concentrations, 2) noninvasive measures of stress from infrared thermography (IRT) eye and beak surface temperatures, and 3) latency-to-lie (LTL) test times of birds tested individually and in groups of 5. Day-of-hatch male broiler chicks were placed into 6 pens (N = 120 chicks/pen). At 1 wk, pens were allocated to 3 light intensity treatments (2, 5, or 10 lux). At 4 wk, half of the birds from each pen were moved to a pen with wire flooring and the same light intensity. At 1, 4, 5, and 8 wk, blood samples were collected and IRT images of the heads of 5 clinically healthy broilers from each pen were captured. In study 2, IRT images of the heads of birds that became lame in the wire flooring pens were taken. There were no treatment effects on the LTL times of birds tested in groups or individually (P > 0.05). On day 56 in study 1, birds on wire flooring had elevated heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratios and CORT concentrations (P ≤ 0.002) and depressed IRT eye and beak temperatures (P < 0.0001). In both studies, there were negative correlations between CORT concentrations and IRT beak surface temperatures (P < 0.05). Lame birds had lower IRT eye and beak surface temperatures than sound birds (P ≤ 0.004), and the IRT beak surface temperatures of lame birds were lower than their eye surface temperatures (P = 0.004) in study 2. These studies indicate that the IRT surface temperatures of the eye, and more distinctly of the beak, can be used as sensitive noninvasive indicators of stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawna L Weimer
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA.
| | - Robert F Wideman
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Colin G Scanes
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Andy Mauromoustakos
- Agricultural Statistics Lab, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Karen D Christensen
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA; Office of Animal Welfare, Tyson Foods, Springdale, AR 72762, USA
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27
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Comparison of Chinese Broiler Production Systems in Economic Performance and Animal Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10030491. [PMID: 32183491 PMCID: PMC7142404 DOI: 10.3390/ani10030491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary There are three main rearing systems for white-feathered broilers in China. They are the net floor system (NFS), the normal cage system (NCS), and the high standard cage system (HCS). This study compared the relationship between economic benefit and animal welfare between these systems. The high economic input, high output, and high profit in these three different rearing systems. The welfare scores were 778.24 ± 29.45, 691.09 ± 32.97, and 669.82 ± 22.79, respectively. As white-feathered broiler production in China has developed, from the conventional system to the latest system, both cost and economic profit have increased while the welfare score has decreased. This study explains why the level of animal welfare in China’s white-feathered broiler production is not high at present, and why breeders do not wish to improve the level of animal welfare production. Abstract Both proper animal welfare and economic benefit are important to the broiler industry, so it is better to consider these two factors together. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between economic benefit and animal welfare in different production systems of white-feathered broilers in China. Based on the Welfare Quality Assessment (WQA) protocol for poultry, the authors compared and evaluated the results of the Welfare Quality model (WQM) and the deterministic model. The present study conducted welfare evaluations and investigations on 66 broiler chicken flocks on 52 farms in China. These flocks included three types: the net floor system (NFS), the normal cage system (NCS), and the high standard cage system (HCS). In terms of economy, the results were in line with high economic input, high output, and high profit. In terms of animal welfare assessment, the authors calculated the welfare scores per measure and the attributional WQ scores and WQ index scores of each production systems. The results showed that nine welfare measures from four welfare criteria presented different trends in the three production systems. WQ index scores were 778.24 ± 29.45, 691.09 ± 32.97, and 669.82 ± 22.79, respectively. According to Chow test results, significant differences were found between WQ index scores and total cost and profit (all p < 0.01). In conclusion, with the development of white-feathered broiler production in China, from the conventional system to the latest system, both cost and economic profit have been increased, but the welfare score has been decreased.
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Kang SW, Christensen KD, Aldridge D, Kuenzel WJ. Effects of light intensity and dual light intensity choice on plasma corticosterone, central serotonergic and dopaminergic activities in birds, Gallus gallus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 285:113289. [PMID: 31557469 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.113289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Light intensity plays an important role in the regulation of growth, behavior, reproduction, and welfare of avian species. Light intensity preference behavior has been suggested to be involved in welfare of birds. This study aims to investigate the effects of different light intensity and dual light intensity choice (DLIC) lighting program on plasma corticosterone (CORT), and tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2, the rate-limiting enzyme of serotonin biosynthesis) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, the rate-limiting enzyme of dopamine biosynthesis) gene expression in the brainstem of male chickens. Day old broilers were housed in two commercial houses, and placed in 24 pens. All the treatment groups were provided with 23 h light (L) /1 h dark (D) and 30 lx (lx) light intensity during the first week and then 18L:6D (10 lx) from day 7 to 14. Blood and brain were sampled at 14 days of age (10 lx) before the onset of light treatments. On day 15, four treatments (2, 10, 20, and 100 lx), and DLIC treatment (2/20 lx) were initiated. Samples were collected on days 15, 16, 17, 30 and 41. TPH2 expression in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) and caudal raphe nucleus (CRN) of brainstem, and TPH2 and TH expression in ventral tegmental areas (VTN) of the midbrain were determined by qPCR. Results showed that bright light and DLIC lighting program temporarily attenuated plasma CORT, suggesting the short-term stress attenuating effect of bright light and DLIC lighting program. Differential TPH2 expression in the DRN and CRN observed in the DLIC birds indicate a significant effect of DLIC lighting program on the serotonergic activity in the avian brainstem. At the 41 days of age, the significant downregulation of TPH2 and TH expression occurred in the VTA of DLIC treated birds compared to the other group of birds. Taken together, temporal and spatial regulation of TPH2 and TH expression by DLIC lighting program indicate that compensatory regulation of serotonergic and dopaminergic activities might be involved in the light intensity preference behavior of birds, suggesting a possible beneficial effect of the DLIC lighting program on broiler welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong W Kang
- Department of Poultry Science, Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA.
| | | | - Douglas Aldridge
- Department of Poultry Science, Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Wayne J Kuenzel
- Department of Poultry Science, Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
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29
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Weimer SL, Wideman RF, Scanes CG, Mauromoustakos A, Christensen KD, Vizzier-Thaxton Y. The utility of infrared thermography for evaluating lameness attributable to bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis. Poult Sci 2019; 98:1575-1588. [PMID: 30508160 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO) is a leading cause of lameness in broilers. Infrared thermography (IRT) is a noninvasive technique for measuring infrared radiation from an object and can be used to evaluate clinical health. Two replicated studies compared the effect of light intensity on broilers grown on a wire flooring model that experimentally increased their susceptibility to and incidence of BCO lameness. Day-of-hatch male broiler chickens were placed into 6 pens on wood shavings litter, and at 1 wk one of 3 light intensity treatments (2, 5, or 10 lux) was allotted. At 4 wk half of the population from each pen was moved to a pen with wire flooring and the same light intensity. At 1, 4, 5, and 8 wk, an IRT image of the legs of 5 clinically healthy broilers from each pen was taken. The right and left proximal femora and tibiae of sound and lame broilers were scored for femoral head necrosis (FHN) and tibial head necrosis (THN) lesion severity. There were minimal effects of light intensity and flooring. In Study 1, but not Study 2, broilers on wire flooring weighed less on day 38 (P = 0.007) and days 57 to 58 (P = 0.003) compared to those on litter. The proportion of broilers that became lame on wire flooring was 52% in Study 1 and 14% in Study 2. The proportion of sound broilers from litter and wire flooring pens with subclinical signs of BCO in their right or left proximal growth plates was over 45% for FHN and 92% for THN, and lame broilers had more severe (P < 0.0001) FHN and THN compared to sound broilers. IRT surface temperatures of the hock joint, shank, and foot were consistently lower (P < 0.0001) in broilers that became lame when compared to sound. Therefore, IRT surface temperatures of broiler leg regions may be useful for detecting lesions attributed to BCO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawna L Weimer
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Robert F Wideman
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Colin G Scanes
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Andy Mauromoustakos
- Agricultural Statistics Lab, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Karen D Christensen
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
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30
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Yan FF, Mohammed AA, Murugesan GR, Cheng HW. Effects of a dietary synbiotic inclusion on bone health in broilers subjected to cyclic heat stress episodes. Poult Sci 2019; 98:1083-1089. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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31
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Karaarslan S, Nazlıgül A. Effects of lighting, stocking density, and access to perches on leg health variables as welfare indicators in broiler chickens. Livest Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2018.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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32
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Effects of a commercial broiler enrichment programme with or without natural light on behaviour and other welfare indicators. Animal 2018; 13:384-391. [PMID: 30008274 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731118001805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Commercial broiler production systems based on market initiatives to improve animal welfare beyond minimum legal requirements have emerged in several European countries. A common factor in the 'higher welfare' indoor systems is the application of environmental enrichment, with or without natural light, to promote locomotor activity and natural behaviours of the broiler chickens. In the current study, we evaluated the effects of a commercial enrichment programme for fast-growing indoor-housed broiler chickens, with or without natural light entering the broiler house. Enrichment materials were selected in relation to perceived minimal hygiene risk and ease of cleaning in between production cycles. Selected enrichments were a combination of wood shavings bales (1.5 bale/1000 chickens), round metal perches (2.7 m/1000 chickens) and metal chains as pecking objects (1/1000 chickens). Three treatments were studied: control (C) without enrichment and natural light, enriched (E) with enrichments as previously defined but without natural light and enriched plus natural light (EL) with enrichments as previously defined and natural light entrance. The experiment was carried out during five subsequent production cycles on one commercial broiler farm with three identical houses. EL could only be assigned to the middle house that was equipped with roof windows (light entrance area: 3% of floor space). C and E were in the two outer houses (alternated in between production cycles). Behaviour was observed during daytime at days 25 and 39 of age by scan sampling. Lameness, footpad dermatitis, hock burn, cleanliness and injuries were scored at the same ages, in addition to the response of the chickens to a novel object. Results showed that the treatments only affected broiler behaviour. E flocks showed significantly more resting as compared with EL and C. EL flocks showed significantly more walking, exploration and foraging behaviour as compared with E and C. Thus, broiler activity was highest in the EL treatment and lowest in the E treatment, with the C treatment in between. No treatment effects were found on the other welfare indicators and only a few tendencies for treatment effects were found for the novel object test, with E birds tending to be more reluctant to approach the object as compared with EL and C birds. We concluded that providing environmental enrichment and natural light-stimulated activity and natural behaviours in broiler chickens, whereas providing enrichment only seemed to have the opposite effect as compared with control flocks without enrichment.
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33
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Guo YL, Ma SM, Du JJ, Chen JL. Effects of Light Intensity on Growth, Anti-Stress Ability and Immune Function in Yellow Feathered Broilers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2017-0542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- YL Guo
- Gansu Agricultural University, China
| | - SM Ma
- Gansu Agricultural University, China
| | - JJ Du
- Gansu Agricultural University, China
| | - JL Chen
- Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China
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