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Becker S, Büscher W, Tiemann I. The British Ixworth: individual growth and egg production of a purebred dual-purpose chicken. Br Poult Sci 2023; 64:659-669. [PMID: 37577795 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2023.2246142] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
1. Killing male one-day-old chicks, especially from layer lines, is banned in some European countries. Therefore, dual-purpose chickens, where each sex is used for meat and egg production, respectively, offer an alternative production solution. This study evaluated the British purebred breed Ixworth as a dual-purpose chicken for meat and egg production.2. Ixworth chicks (n = 167) were hatched and reared mixed-sex in a floor housing system, with two groups receiving a commercial pullet diet (treatment 1) and two groups receiving a diet composed for males of layer lines (treatment 2). Individual chick performance data were recorded. Males were slaughtered at 12 weeks of age, and their growth rate and carcase variables were analysed. All hens were continuously reared on the pullet diet and kept in a free-range system from 20 weeks old for one laying period (52 weeks). In addition, group-based feed consumption and mortality were recorded.3. Cockerels in treatment 1 and 2 showed significantly different [T(88) = -2.846, P = 0.003] growth rates (25.3 vs. 27.4 g/day) and average final weights (2166 g vs. 2344 g). The hens in treatment 1 (n = 41) laid an average of 193 eggs per hen housed (mean egg weight: 56.9 g), whereas those in treatment 2 (n = 35) laid 195 eggs per hen housed (mean egg weight: 56.5 g). Nest acceptance was >97.5% and feed consumption was up to 140 g/bird/day.4. The results showed that the Ixworth may be a suitable breed for dual-purpose use and could be improved through selective breeding, offering potential for preservation of this local breed as well as general biodiversity in poultry farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Becker
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - W Büscher
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - I Tiemann
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Werner D, Bussemas R, Baldinger L. Crossing the Old Local Breed Deutsches Lachshuhn with the Layer Breed White Rock: Effects on Laying Performance of the Females and Fattening Performance of the Males. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2999. [PMID: 37835605 PMCID: PMC10571803 DOI: 10.3390/ani13192999] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
We tested the novel cross of the old local breed Deutsches Lachshuhn and the layer breed White Rock, as well as purebred Deutsches Lachshuhn, for their suitability as dual-purpose chickens under 100% organic husbandry conditions, and compared their performance and welfare with the two dual-purpose crosses New Hampshire × Bresse and Bresse × White Rock, which are already established in Germany. Chicks were reared in mixed-sex groups until slaughter of the males at 15 or 18 weeks of life. Data on laying performance and animal welfare were recorded until the hens' 72nd week of life. Laying performance of Deutsches Lachshuhn × White Rock was almost twice as high as that in purebred hens, while fattening performance of the males did not differ. Deutsches Lachshuhn × White Rock, New Hampshire × Bresse and Bresse × White Rock realized a balanced performance profile of 242-250 eggs per hen alive and a final live weight of the males of 2924-3105 g after 18 weeks of rearing. The efficiency of a pair of chickens (one male and one female) was very similar for the crosses (3.69-3.77 kg feed kg-1 marketable product), while purebred Deutsches Lachshuhn was less efficient (6.35 kg feed kg-1 marketable product). Crossing the breed Deutsches Lachshuhn with a layer breed therefore improved laying performance and overall efficiency of the birds compared to purebred Deutsches Lachshuhn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Werner
- Thünen Institute of Organic Farming, Trenthorst 32, 23847 Westerau, Germany
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Arora R, Sharma R, Ahlawat S, Chhabra P, Kumar A, Kaur M, Vijh RK, Lal SB, Mishra DC, Farooqi MS, Srivastava S. Transcriptomics reveals key genes responsible for functional diversity in pectoralis major muscles of native black Kadaknath and broiler chicken. 3 Biotech 2023; 13:253. [PMID: 37396468 PMCID: PMC10310660 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-023-03682-0] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA sequencing-based expression profiles from pectoralis major muscles of black meat (Kadaknath) and white meat (broiler) chicken were compared to identify differentially expressed genes. A total of 156 genes with log2 fold change ≥ ± 2.0 showed higher expression in Kadaknath and 68 genes were expressed at a lower level in comparison to broiler. Significantly enriched biological functions of up-regulated genes in Kadaknath were skeletal muscle cell differentiation, regulation of response to reactive oxygen, positive regulation of fat cell differentiation and melanosome. Significant ontology terms up-regulated in broiler included DNA replication origin binding, G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathway and chemokine activity. Highly inter-connected differentially expressed genes in Kadaknath (ATFs, C/EPDs) were observed to be important regulators of cellular adaptive functions, while in broiler, the hub genes were involved in cell cycle progression and DNA replication. The study is an attempt to get an insight into the transcript diversity of pectoralis major muscles of Kadaknath and broiler chicken. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-023-03682-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reena Arora
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
- Animal Biotechnology Division, G T Road By-Pass, P O Box 129, Karnal, Haryana 132001 India
| | - Rekha Sharma
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
| | - Sonika Ahlawat
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
| | - Pooja Chhabra
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
| | - Mandeep Kaur
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India
| | | | - Shashi Bhushan Lal
- ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Md. Samir Farooqi
- ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Sudhir Srivastava
- ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi, India
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Gvoždíková Javůrková V, Doležal P, Fraňková A, Horák M, Chodová D, Langrová I, Tůmová E. Effects of genotype, sex, and feed restriction on the biochemical composition of chicken preen gland secretions and their implications for commercial poultry production. J Anim Sci 2022; 101:6956961. [PMID: 36547363 PMCID: PMC9923712 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Preen gland secretions spread on the feathers contain various chemical compounds dominated by fatty acids (FAs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals may significantly affect plumage condition, microbial and ectoparasitic load on feathers, and chemical communication of birds. However, how chemical composition of preen secretions varies in commercially produced chickens with respect to their genotype, sex, and feeding regime remain largely unknown, as well as the welfare implications for farmed poultry. We found that while polyunsaturated fatty acids in chicken preen secretions differed significantly with genotype (P << 0.001), saturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids varied with genotype-dependent preen gland volume (P < 0.01). Chickens of meat-type fast-growing Ross 308 genotype had reduced preen gland volume and lower proportions of all FA categories in their preen secretions compared with dual-purpose slow-growing ISA Dual chickens. A total of 34 FAs and 77 VOCs with tens of unique FAs were detected in preen secretions of both genotypes. While differences in the relative proportion of 6 of the 10 most dominant VOCs in chicken preen gland secretions were related to genotype (P < 0.001), only 1 of the 10 most dominant VOCs showed a sex effect (P < 0.01), and only 2 of the 10 most dominant VOCs showed a genotype-dependent effect of feed restriction (P < 0.05). Feed restriction had no effect on the relative proportion of any of the FAs in chicken preen gland secretions. Moreover, we found that meat-type Ross 308 preen secretions were dominated by VOCs, which are proven attractants for poultry red mite and may also increase infestation with other ectoparasites and negatively influence overall odor-mediated intraspecific communication and welfare. This study shows that no feeding management, but long-term genetic selection in commercial breeding may be the main cause of the differences in the biochemistry and function of chicken preen secretions. This might have negative consequences for chemosignaling, antiparasitic, and antimicrobial potential of preen secretions and can lead to increased susceptibility to ectoparasites, plumage care disorders, and can affect the overall condition, welfare, and productivity of commercially bred chickens. Selection-induced preen gland impairments must therefore be considered and compensated by proper management of the chicken farm and increased care about animal well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Petr Doležal
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague 6 - Suchdol, Czech Republic,Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague 6 - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Adéla Fraňková
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague 6 - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Monika Horák
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague 6 - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Darina Chodová
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague 6 - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Iva Langrová
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague 6 - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Tůmová
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague 6 - Suchdol, Czech Republic
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Productive performance, perching behavior, keel bone and other health aspects in dual-purpose compared to conventional laying hens. Poult Sci 2022; 101:102095. [PMID: 36095865 PMCID: PMC9472069 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102095] [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: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Several alternatives to avoid killing male day-old chicks are available. One of these alternatives is to keep dual-purpose chicken strains. The aim of this study was to compare dual-purpose hens (Lohmann Dual, LD) with conventional laying hens (Lohmann Tradition, LT) in terms of performance, animal welfare parameters such as keel bone state and foot pad dermatitis, and perching behavior. We expected a generally equal or even better performance of the dual-purpose hens except for laying performance. Four hundred female day-old chicks were housed in 6 pens (3 pens per strain) and reared until 54 wk of age. Each pen offered a littered area, elevated slatted manure pit, elevated wooden frame with perches or grids and nest boxes on the manure pit. The wooden frame was alternately equipped with perches or grids. The elevated manure pit as well as the elevated structure was accessible via ramp. Productive performance parameters like mortality, total number of eggs and body weight were assessed periodically. In week 49, 132 hens (66 hens per strain) were randomly selected for radiography of the keel bone and assessment of plumage and foot pad state. Perching behavior was analyzed via scan sampling during rearing and laying period, respectively. Statistical analyzes were done with Linear Mixed Effect Model and General Linear Mixed Model. LD had a higher radiographic density than LT hens (P = 0.0016), other keel bone parameters (fracture score, P = 0.36; deformation, P = 0.83) showed no differences. The vast majority of fractures occurring in both strains were located in the caudal part of the keel bone. During the laying period, usage of elevated structures was higher with grids compared to perches (P < 0.001) and in LD compared to LT (P = 0.01). Some animal welfare problems were less frequent in LD compared to LT hens while other problems did not differ between the 2 strains or were even more frequent in LD hens. Grids may be more suitable as resting area than perches and may possibly help to decrease the prevalence of keel bone damage.
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Male Layer Chicken’s Response to Dietary Moringa oleifera Meal in a Tropical Climate. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141843. [PMID: 35883390 PMCID: PMC9311652 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In the egg industry, most slow-growing chicks are usually euthanized at 1-day-old even though it has been demonstrated that they are well-suited to production systems with outdoor access. However, the rearing of these birds, as an option to address the ethical concerns related to their disposal at such an early age, is impaired by high feeding costs. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate non-conventional feeding materials that could be incorporated into their diets. Moringa is a non-traditional feed for poultry; nevertheless, studies investigating slow-growing breeds’ performance when fed Moringa while given access to outdoors in the tropics are limited. Thus, the current study evaluated slow-growing chickens’ response to dietary Moringa in terms of production performance, carcass yield, and blood parameters. The results revealed that all cumulative traits were not negatively affected by the treatments (except for feed conversion). Additionally, both breast weight and yield and gizzard weight and yield significantly increased with dietary Moringa, while blood parameters remained unaltered. It is concluded that Moringa, as a feed ingredient, could be added to the diets of slow-growing male chickens grown with outdoor access in the tropics to improve productive and carcass traits, but feed conversion could be increased. Abstract This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different dietary amounts of Moringa oleifera meal (MOM), consisting of leaves and small edible green stems, on growth performance, carcass traits, and blood parameters of finisher male layer-type slow-growing chickens raised with outdoor access. A total of 198 Dominant Blue D 107, 72-day-old male chickens were randomly assigned to tree dietary treatments containing 0, 30, and 60 g/kg MOM that corresponded to T1 or control, T2, and T3, separately. Each treatment was divided into 6 replicates of 11 birds apiece, and all birds had access to the outdoors. After 7 weeks of experimental rearing, live weight was 2218.1, 2164.4, and 2176.6 g for birds raised in T1, T2 and T3, respectively, without statistical differences (p ≥ 0.05). Live weight gain and daily live weight gain increased (p ≤ 0.05) in favor of the control group during the first 4 weeks but decreased (p ≤ 0.05) in the last 3 weeks of the trial. Overall feed intake was not influenced by the treatments (p ≥ 0.05). Birds raised with MOM in their diets had higher feed conversion (p ≤ 0.05). T2 diet considerably increased (p ≤ 0.05) birds’ breast and gizzard weight and yield while decreasing feet weight and yield, in comparison to T1. Dietary MOM inclusion did not impair or improve (p ≥ 0.05) blood parameters. The results of this study suggest that up to 60 g/kg MOM could be included in the diets of slow-growing Dominant Blue D 107 male chickens grown with access to outdoors without compromising their productive performance (except for feed conversion), slaughter characteristics, and health status.
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7
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Carcass Characteristics, Digestive System Traits of Spent Broiler Breeder and Dual-Purpose Hens. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101320. [PMID: 35625166 PMCID: PMC9138096 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Raising dual-purpose hens for meat is believed to bring more economic benefits to farmers selling products directly to consumers. The aim of the study was to determine the differences between the carcass features and the digestive system of multipurpose hens and spent broiler breeders. In the experiment, 20 carcasses of 70-week-old Rosa 1 dual-purpose hens and 20 carcasses of 62-week-old Ross 308 broiler breeders were used. Measurements of the length of various sections of the intestine and the diameter of individual intestinal segments were made. During the gutting, proventriculus, gizzard, liver, heart, and spleen were separated and then weighed. Dual-purpose hens differed significantly (p < 0.05) from broiler breeders in weight and carcass dimensions. Multipurpose hens were characterized by significantly lower (p < 0.05) percentages of breast muscles, leg muscles, skin with subcutaneous fat, wings, and carcass remainders. Broiler breeders were characterized by significantly longer (p > 0.05) total intestinal length, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and terminal intestine. Significant differences were confirmed in terms of the diameter of some segments of the intestine. Broiler breeder hens also had a greater mass of internal organs compared to the dual-purpose layer hens.
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Popova T, Petkov E, Ignatova M, Vlahova-Vangelova D, Balev D, Dragoev S, Kolev N. Male Layer-Type Chickens - an Alternative Source for High Quality Poultry Meat: a Review on the Carcass Composition, Sensory Characteristics and Nutritional Profile. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2021-1615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - D Balev
- University of Food Technologies, Bulgaria
| | - S Dragoev
- University of Food Technologies, Bulgaria
| | - N Kolev
- University of Food Technologies, Bulgaria
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González Ariza A, Arando Arbulu A, León Jurado JM, Navas González FJ, Delgado Bermejo JV, Camacho Vallejo ME. Discriminant Canonical Tool for Differential Biometric Characterization of Multivariety Endangered Hen Breeds. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082211. [PMID: 34438669 PMCID: PMC8388411 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Breed undefinition boosts the risk of irreversible breed loss due to its substitution by dominant breeds. Breed loss results detrimental for the fraction of the genetic pool which is linked to the value of livestock as perfectly adapted elements of domestic ecosystems among other desirable features. In turn, this ensures and maximizes population sustainability. The present study aimed to design a biometric characterization tool in autochthonous avian breeds and their varieties in Andalusia (south of Spain): Utrerana and Sureña breeds. For this, different quantitative and qualitative measurements were collected in 473 females and 135 roosters belonging to these breeds. Even though both genotypes belong to a common original trunk, discriminant canonical analysis (DCA) revealed clear differences between both breeds and within the varieties that they comprise. In particular, certain variables such as ocular ratio and phaneroptic characteristics, which may be intrinsically related to the capacity of the breeds to adapt to the environmental conditions in which they thrive, could allow breeders to develop breeding programs focused on the enhancement productive potential of individuals. Abstract This study aimed to develop a tool to perform the morphological characterization of Sureña and Utrerana breeds, two endangered autochthonous breeds ascribed to the Mediterranean trunk of Spanish autochthonous hens and their varieties (n = 608; 473 females and 135 males). Kruskal–Wallis H test reported sex dimorphism pieces of evidence (p < 0.05 at least). Multicollinearity analysis reported (variance inflation factor (VIF) >5 variables were discarded) white nails, ocular ratio, and back length (Wilks’ lambda values of 0.191, 0.357, and 0.429, respectively) to have the highest discriminant power in female morphological characterization. For males, ocular ratio and black/corneous and white beak colors (Wilks’ lambda values of 0.180, 0.210, and 0.349, respectively) displayed the greatest discriminant potential. The first two functions explained around 90% intergroup variability. A stepwise discriminant canonical analysis (DCA) was used to determine genotype clustering patterns. Interbreed and varieties proximity was evaluated through Mahalanobis distances. Despite the adaptability capacity to alternative production systems ascribed to both avian breeds, Sureña and Utrerana morphologically differ. Breed dimorphism may evidence differential adaptability mechanisms linked to their aptitude (dual purpose/egg production). The present tool may serve as a model for the first stages of breed protection to be applicable in other endangered avian breeds worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio González Ariza
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain; (A.G.A.); (A.A.A.); (J.V.D.B.)
| | - Ander Arando Arbulu
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain; (A.G.A.); (A.A.A.); (J.V.D.B.)
- Animal Breeding Consulting S.L., 14014 Córdoba, Spain
| | | | - Francisco Javier Navas González
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain; (A.G.A.); (A.A.A.); (J.V.D.B.)
- Andalusian Institute of Agricultural and Fisheries Research and Training (IFAPA), Alameda del Obispo, 14004 Córdoba, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-651-679-262
| | - Juan Vicente Delgado Bermejo
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain; (A.G.A.); (A.A.A.); (J.V.D.B.)
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Nematbakhsh S, Selamat J, Idris LH, Abdull Razis AF. Chicken Authentication and Discrimination via Live Weight, Body Size, Carcass Traits, and Breast Muscle Fat Content Clustering as Affected by Breed and Sex Varieties in Malaysia. Foods 2021; 10:foods10071575. [PMID: 34359445 PMCID: PMC8303480 DOI: 10.3390/foods10071575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, the high demand for village chickens in Malaysia leads to the fraudulent substitution of indigenous chickens with other cheaper counterparts. Discriminating different chicken breeds based on their phenotypic characteristics is one strategy to avoid chicken adulteration. The main objective of this study was to authenticate and group dominant chicken breeds in Malaysia, including commercial chickens (Cobb, Hubbard, DeKalb) and cross-bred village chickens (Ayam Kampung, Akar Putra). The further discrimination of village chickens from underaged colored broilers (UCBs) (Hubbard, Sasso) was performed based on phenotype traits. The results showed that the breed had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on phenotypic characteristics, while the sex effect was not significant for some characteristics. In the first phase, the most remarkable discriminating factors were abdominal fat weight, breast muscle weight, chest circumference, shank length, and wingspan. However, in the second phase, notable variations in phenotypic characteristics between village chickens and UCBs were not detected. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed the successful separation of village chickens from high-performance breeds (broiler and colored broiler). Nevertheless, there was overlap among observations for Sasso and village chickens, which approved the possible similarities in their phenotypic characteristics. This study showed clear breed clustering, which leads to the chicken authentication based on their phenotypic characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Nematbakhsh
- Laboratory of Food Safety and Food Integrity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.); (J.S.)
| | - Jinap Selamat
- Laboratory of Food Safety and Food Integrity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.); (J.S.)
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Lokman Hakim Idris
- Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Ahmad Faizal Abdull Razis
- Laboratory of Food Safety and Food Integrity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.); (J.S.)
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Natural Medicines and Products Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Correspondence:
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Daş G, Auerbach M, Stehr M, Sürie C, Metges CC, Gauly M, Rautenschlein S. Impact of Nematode Infections on Non-specific and Vaccine-Induced Humoral Immunity in Dual-Purpose or Layer-Type Chicken Genotypes. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:659959. [PMID: 34046445 PMCID: PMC8144313 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.659959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Nematode infections may induce immune-modulatory effects and influence host-immune responses to other pathogens. The aim of the study was to investigate whether a mixed nematode-infection influences non-specific and vaccine-induced humoral immunity against Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), and Avian Metapneumovirus (AMPV) in already vaccinated hens of a dual-purpose (Lohmann Dual, LD) or a layer genotype (Lohmann Brown Plus; LB). Until 17 weeks-of-age, LD (n = 70) and LB (n = 109) hens were vaccinated against major bacterial and viral diseases and coccidiosis. At 24 weeks-of-age, the hens received either a placebo or an oral inoculation of 1,000 infectious eggs of A. galli and H. gallinarum. Plasma total immunoglobulin (Ig) isotypes (IgY, IgM, IgA) levels and vaccine-induced antibody titers against NDV, IBV, and AMPV were determined from 2 to 18 weeks post-infection (wpi). Infections had no suppressing effect on total Ig isotypes IgY, IgM, and IgA as well as on vaccine-induced antibody titers against NDV, IBV, and AMPV (P > 0.05). Overall, LB hens had higher levels of IgY, IgM, and IgA than those of LD hens (P < 0.05). There were no differences between IBV titers of the two genotypes (P > 0.05). Independent of infection status of the hens, NDV titers were higher in LB hens than in LD hens at wpi 2 (P < 0.05), but not in following weeks (P > 0.05). Uninfected LD hens had lower AMPV titers than their infected counterparts at 6 and 14 wpi (P < 0.05). Regardless of nematode infection, LD hens revealed a higher risk of responding weak to vaccination against NDV (odds ratio = 5.45; P = 0.021) and AMPV (odds ratio = 13.99, P < 0.001) than did LB hens (P > 0.05). We conclude that nematode infections have no adverse effects on non-specific and vaccine-induced humoral immunity in either genotype. LB hens have higher levels of total immunoglobulin isotypes than LD hens. Except for IBV, vaccine-induced humoral immune responses show a dependency on genotype. Dual-purpose hens show lower responsiveness to vaccinations against NDV and AMPV, possibly due to factors associated with increased body fat reserves in this genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gürbüz Daş
- Institute of Nutritional Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Monika Auerbach
- Clinic for Poultry, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Manuel Stehr
- Institute of Nutritional Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Christian Sürie
- Farm for Education and Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Cornelia C Metges
- Institute of Nutritional Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Matthias Gauly
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Silke Rautenschlein
- Clinic for Poultry, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
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12
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Phillips HN, Moon RD, Sorge US, Heins BJ. Efficacy of Broilers as a Method of Face Fly ( Musca autumnalis De Geer) Larva Control for Organic Dairy Production. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E2429. [PMID: 33353115 PMCID: PMC7766460 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate Freedom-Ranger broiler chickens as a method to control face fly (Musca autumnalis De Geer) larvae in cow dung pats on pasture. Ninety-nine pats in three replicates were inoculated with first-instar larvae and exposed to one of four treatment conditions for 3 to 4 days: (1) an environment-controlled greenhouse (GH); (2) pasture without broilers (NEG); (3) pasture with 25 broilers stocked at a low density of 2.5 m2 of outdoor area per broiler (LOW); and (4) pasture with 25 broilers stocked at a high density of 0.5 m2 of outdoor area per broiler (HIGH). Broiler behaviors and weather conditions were recorded twice daily. Survival rates of larvae (mean, 95% CI) were similar for pats in the NEG (4.4%, 2-9%), LOW (5.6%, 3-11%), and HIGH (3.2%, 2-7%) groups, and was greatest for larvae reared in the GH (54.4%, 36-72%) group compared to all other groups. The proportion of broilers observed pasture ranging was 14.0% (6-28%) but was negatively related to solar radiation. Broilers were never observed foraging in pats. Results indicate that use of broilers may not be an effective method for controlling larvae of dung pat breeding flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah N. Phillips
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Roger D. Moon
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA;
| | - Ulrike S. Sorge
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA;
- Bavarian Animal Health Services, 85586 Poing, Germany
| | - Bradley J. Heins
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
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13
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Tiemann I, Hillemacher S, Wittmann M. Are Dual-Purpose Chickens Twice as Good? Measuring Performance and Animal Welfare throughout the Fattening Period. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1980. [PMID: 33126643 PMCID: PMC7692664 DOI: 10.3390/ani10111980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Chickens are the world's most widely used farm animal and have a significant genetic diversity. In the current study, we investigated three strains for their suitability as dual-purpose chickens, with a focus on the fattening ability and welfare of the cockerels: 1. layer cockerels (Lohmann Brown, LB, n = 714); 2. cockerels of a dual-purpose hybrid (Lohmann Dual, LD, n = 844); and 3. cockerels of a native breed (Rhinelander, RL, n = 458). Chicks were raised under identical conditions and marked individually to compare focus and random sampling methods for weighing birds weekly. Because chicks of dual-purpose origins are usually raised mixed-sex, cockerels and pullets were weighed and observed together until sexes the were identifiable at week 10 of their life. During the 10th to 20th week of life, investigations were continued on 100 cockerels per genotype. Key figures for growth performance, such as feed conversion ratio (FCR) and European production efficiency factor (EPEF), were also calculated at weekly intervals. LD cockerels showed considerable growth performance (p < 0.001 compared to LB, RL, 2 kg at 9 weeks), whereas LB reached a live weight of 2 kg at 13 weeks and RL at 15 weeks of age. Genotype-dependent differences were also evident, with favorable FCR and EPEF for LD, intermediate for LB, and unfavorable for RL (all p < 0.001). The results of the FCR and EPEF suggest that cockerels should be slaughtered around week 8 of life, although only the carcass of the LD might be marketable. Thus, the optimal time of slaughter based on production parameters such as FCR and EPEF is different from the time when the animal reaches a marketable 2 kg live weight. Animal-based welfare indicators revealed that the RL are not adapted to production environments, including those that are extensive. Further research aimed at adapted feed management, including better FCR, and animals adapted to the respective production environments is necessary to improve alternative poultry production in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga Tiemann
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany;
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, Nussallee 5, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Sonja Hillemacher
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany;
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, Nussallee 5, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Margit Wittmann
- Faculty of Agriculture, South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences, Lübecker Ring 2, 59494 Soest, Germany;
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14
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Nolte T, Jansen S, Halle I, Scholz AM, Simianer H, Sharifi AR, Weigend S. Egg Production and Bone Stability of Local Chicken Breeds and Their Crosses Fed with Faba Beans. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1480. [PMID: 32842714 PMCID: PMC7552325 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Poultry production is raising concerns within the public regarding the practice of culling day-old chicks and the importation of soy from overseas for feedstuff. Therefore, an alternative approach to poultry production was tested. In two consecutive experiments, two traditional chicken breeds, Vorwerkhuhn and Bresse Gauloise, and White Rock as a commercial layer genotype as well as crossbreds thereof were fed diets containing either 20% vicin-rich or vicin-poor faba beans, though addressing both subjects of debate. Hen performance traits and bone stability were recorded. All parameters were considerably influenced by the genotype with White Rock showing the significantly highest (p < 0.05) laying performance (99.4% peak production) and mean egg weights (56.6 g) of the purebreds, but the lowest bone breaking strength (tibiotarsus 197.2 N, humerus 230.2 N). Regarding crossbreds, the Bresse Gauloise × White Rock cross performed best (peak production 98.1%, mean egg weight 58.0 g). However, only limited dietary effects were found as only the feeding of 20% vicin-rich faba beans led to a significant reduction of egg weights of at most 1.1 g (p < 0.05) and to a significant reduction of the shell stability in the crossbred genotypes. In terms of dual-purpose usage, crossing of Bresse Gauloise with White Rock seems to be the most promising variant studied here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Nolte
- Department of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Genetics Group, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (H.S.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Integrated Breeding Research, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
| | - Simon Jansen
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 31535 Neustadt, Germany
| | - Ingrid Halle
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 38116 Braunschweig, Germany;
| | - Armin Manfred Scholz
- Livestock Center of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany;
| | - Henner Simianer
- Department of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Genetics Group, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (H.S.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Integrated Breeding Research, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
| | - Ahmad Reza Sharifi
- Department of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Genetics Group, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany; (H.S.); (A.R.S.)
- Center for Integrated Breeding Research, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
| | - Steffen Weigend
- Center for Integrated Breeding Research, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 31535 Neustadt, Germany
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15
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Pellattiero E, Tasoniero G, Cullere M, Gleeson E, Baldan G, Contiero B, Dalle Zotte A. Are Meat Quality Traits and Sensory Attributes in Favor of Slow-Growing Chickens? Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E960. [PMID: 32486516 PMCID: PMC7341280 DOI: 10.3390/ani10060960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study compared certain quality features and sensory attributes of the meat obtained from three different chicken genotypes: two endangered slow-growing indigenous breeds (Padovana: PAD, Polverara: POL) and a commercial broiler (Hybrid). Chickens (n = 42/genotype) were slaughtered at their commercial slaughter age: 183 days for PAD and POL chickens, and 35 days for the Hybrid. Breast and leg meat were dissected and used for qualitative evaluations. Results highlighted that genotype significantly affected final breast weight, with Hybrid showing higher values than both indigenous chickens. Conversely, PAD and POL meat was instrumentally tougher and richer in haem iron compared to the Hybrid. The sensory analysis conducted by a trained panel showed that the textural aspects and metallic flavor perception of PAD and POL meat differed from that of the Hybrid. These aspects were probably responsible for the lower overall acceptability of the PAD and POL meat compared to the Hybrid, as expressed by the consumer panel. A key step in making PAD and POL meat acceptable to consumers and stimulating its market seems thus the development of appropriate marketing strategies to transform product peculiarities in strength points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Pellattiero
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Agripolis, viale dell’ Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro (P.D.), Italy; (E.P.); (G.T.); (E.G.); (B.C.); (A.D.Z.)
| | - Giulia Tasoniero
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Agripolis, viale dell’ Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro (P.D.), Italy; (E.P.); (G.T.); (E.G.); (B.C.); (A.D.Z.)
| | - Marco Cullere
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Agripolis, viale dell’ Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro (P.D.), Italy; (E.P.); (G.T.); (E.G.); (B.C.); (A.D.Z.)
| | - Elizabeth Gleeson
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Agripolis, viale dell’ Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro (P.D.), Italy; (E.P.); (G.T.); (E.G.); (B.C.); (A.D.Z.)
| | - Gabriele Baldan
- Agricultural High School “San Benedetto da Norcia”, Via delle Cave 172, 35136 Padova, Italy;
| | - Barbara Contiero
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Agripolis, viale dell’ Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro (P.D.), Italy; (E.P.); (G.T.); (E.G.); (B.C.); (A.D.Z.)
| | - Antonella Dalle Zotte
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Agripolis, viale dell’ Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro (P.D.), Italy; (E.P.); (G.T.); (E.G.); (B.C.); (A.D.Z.)
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16
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Torres A, Muth PC, Capote J, Rodríguez C, Fresno M, Valle Zárate A. Suitability of dual-purpose cockerels of 3 different genetic origins for fattening under free-range conditions. Poult Sci 2020; 98:6564-6571. [PMID: 31376357 PMCID: PMC8913997 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The utilization of male chickens for fattening constitutes a potential advantage of the dual-purpose concept. In addition to the use of commercial hybrids, producers could introduce alternative chicken genotypes or further develop local breeds. To gain more information about the genetic effect on growth performance, carcass characteristics, physicochemical meat traits, and sensory attributes, 60 cockerels belonging to Les Bleues (developed from the French breed Bresse Gauloise), Canarian (Spanish local breed), and Dominant Red Barred D459 (DRB D459; commercial dual-purpose hybrid) genotypes were reared under free-range conditions in a warm tropical climate and slaughtered at 15 wk of age. The major findings were as follows: (i) Les Bleues chickens exhibited the best growth rate and the body weight of 2.44 kg reached by this strain at 15 wk would be gained only after 18 to 19 wk with DRB D459 and it would take even 2 wk longer for Canarian breed, according to the growth modeling using the Morgan equation, although the body weights between the latter were statistical similar at 15 wk; (ii) Les Bleues strain had a good capability in terms of meat production performance, presenting carcasses with significantly heavier commercial cuts, and higher fleshiness than the other 2 genotypes; (iii) although significant differences among genotypes appeared in the physical characteristics of the breast meat, especially those concerning the skin and meat color and water-holding capacity, which was significantly reduced for Canarian chickens, no significant differences were detected in the chemical composition and fatty acid profile of the breast meat; (iv) trained panelists (n = 8) pointed out that leg meat of none of the genotypes is better in terms of global appreciation, but untrained consumers (n = 99) perceived that the Les Bleues leg meat was significantly more palatable than the DRB D459 leg meat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandr Torres
- Animal Husbandry and Breeding in the Tropics and Subtropics, Hans-Ruthenberg-Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany.,Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias, 38200 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Philipp C Muth
- Animal Husbandry and Breeding in the Tropics and Subtropics, Hans-Ruthenberg-Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Juan Capote
- Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias, 38200 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Covadonga Rodríguez
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38206 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Maria Fresno
- Instituto Canario de Investigaciones Agrarias, 38200 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Anne Valle Zárate
- Animal Husbandry and Breeding in the Tropics and Subtropics, Hans-Ruthenberg-Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany
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17
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Growth Performance of Local Chicken Breeds, a High-Performance Genotype and Their Crosses Fed with Regional Faba Beans to Replace Soy. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040702. [PMID: 32316455 PMCID: PMC7222797 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The culling of day-old male chicks and the ecological impact of high soy imports from overseas as animal feed are intensively discussed by the Western European agricultural sector and society. One possible approach to mitigate these problems could be the use of dual-purpose chickens for meat and egg production in combination with a predominant use of regionally grown protein plants. In the present study the suitability of six different chicken genotypes for fattening was evaluated while feeding them two different faba bean varieties. No adverse effects of the faba bean feeding on the performance and the health of the birds could be detected. Abstract The faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is a native protein crop and considered a promising alternative to soybeans. Due to its anti-nutritive substances such as vicin and convicin (VC) its use in animal nutrition has been restricted. In the present study, two consecutive experiments were conducted to analyse the effects of feeding 20% faba beans, which differ in their VC content on fattening performance and slaughter traits of different chicken genotypes. In a first trial, purebred male chickens of the local breeds Bresse Gauloise and Vorwerkhuhn as well as of a high-performance White Rock line were tested. In a second trial, crossbreds of them were evaluated: Vorwerkhuhn × Bresse Gauloise, Vorwerkhuhn × White Rock, Bresse Gauloise × White Rock. Daily weight gain and feed intake were recorded until slaughter at approximately 2100 g. At slaughter the final live weight, carcass yield and the weights of the valuable parts (breasts and legs) were measured. For the genotypes studied, no adverse or undesirable effects of both VC−rich and VC−poor faba beans in the feedstuff were detected regarding body weight development, carcass quality, and fattening parameters. Furthermore, there was no indication that the birds’ health was impaired.
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18
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Growth, carcass, and meat quality of 2 dual-purpose chickens and a layer hybrid grown for 67 or 84 D compared with slow-growing broilers. J APPL POULTRY RES 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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19
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Ibrahim D, Goshu G, Esatu W, Cahaner A. Dual-purpose production of genetically different chicken crossbreeds in Ethiopia. 2. Egg and meat production of the final-crossbreed females and males. Poult Sci 2019; 98:3405-3417. [PMID: 30953063 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Females and males of 7 commercial (ComCb) and 3 experimental (ExpCb) crossbreeds were produced by 6 imported parent stocks (PS) and 1 local PS. The ComCb were Dominant Red Barred (DR), Dominant Sussex (DS), Lohmann Brown (LB), Lohmann-Dual, NOVOgen Brown (NB), NOVOgen Color (NC), and local Koekoek (KK). The ExpCb were (dams × sires) DR × KK (R × K), DS × DR (S × R), and KK × DS (K × S). The females were reared to 60 wk of age, and recorded data included BW, BWG, feed intake, egg number, and egg weight, allowing the calculation of egg mass and feed conversion ratio (FCR). The males were reared to 16 wk of age and recoded data included feed intake, BW, FCR, and carcass characteristics. A total of 621 females and 516 males were tested in sex-separated trials, each with 3 replicated floor pens per crossbreed. The overall value of each crossbreed was determined by overall egg production, 60-wk BW and FCR of females, and by 16-wk BW, carcass yield, and FCR of males. The highest laying rate was exhibited by LB (68%) and NB (66%), followed by RxK and K × S (∼62%). The crossbreeds differed in feed intake and in females' FCR, with LB leading (2.74) followed by NB and S × R (3.07) then DR (3.18). In egg production, LB, followed by NB, were the best, as expected from specialized table-egg crossbreeds. The highest 16-wk BW of males and best FCR were exhibited by NC, followed by NB. In summary, LB was the best egg-producing crossbreed, but poor in meat production. Better choice for dual-purpose production would be NB, ranked second in egg production and in males' BW and FCR. NC was the best meat-producing (males and spent hens) crossbreed and the hens were second in egg-mass production. Hence, NC might be the best dual-purpose hybrid where artificial insemination is feasible and the consumers prefer large eggs and birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawud Ibrahim
- Debre Zeit Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Debre Zeit 36, Ethiopia.,College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Debre Zeit 34, Ethiopia
| | - Gebeyehu Goshu
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Debre Zeit 34, Ethiopia
| | - Wondmeneh Esatu
- Debre Zeit Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Debre Zeit 36, Ethiopia
| | - Avigdor Cahaner
- Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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20
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Malchow J, Puppe B, Berk J, Schrader L. Effects of Elevated Grids on Growing Male Chickens Differing in Growth Performance. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:203. [PMID: 31294041 PMCID: PMC6603214 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pullets, i. e., chickens of layer lines are often raised in housings equipped with perches. In contrast, broiler chickens most often are raised in a barren environment that lacks any three-dimensional structures, even though broilers also are motivated to use elevated structures. In addition, environmental enrichment may improve welfare problems in broiler chickens, such as skeletal disorders or contact dermatitis. Due to ethical reasons, currently there are attempts to fatten the male chickens of layer strains or to use dual purpose strains. However, there is only limited knowledge on the behavior of these chickens until now. The aim of this study was to test the use of elevated grids and their effect on animal-based indicators (e.g., physical condition). In two successive trials, we kept a total of 1,217 male chickens from three strains (Lohmann Dual, Lohmann Brown Plus, Ross 308) that show differences in growth performance in 24 pens (two trials × three strains × eight pens). In half of the pens, grids were offered at three different heights (enriched groups); in the other half of the pens, no elevated structures were installed (control groups). We recorded the number of birds using the grids at the different heights as well as locomotor activity, walking ability, plumage cleanliness, and the footpad health of chickens. Chickens with low and medium growth performance preferred the highest grids during both the light and dark periods. In contrast, fast-growing chickens used the lowest grid more frequently. Fast-growing chickens kept in the enriched pens tended to have a higher level of locomotor activity and reduced chest cleanliness. Chickens from the medium growth performance strain showed better walking ability when kept in the enriched pens. Enrichment did not affect any of the welfare measures in the slow-growing chickens. These findings suggest that elevated structures may improve chicken welfare, particularly for medium growing chickens. For fast-growing chickens we found evidence for an improvement of animal-based indicators although they used the elevated structures less. However, regardless of growth performance, elevated grids offer the birds an opportunity to rest in a species-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Malchow
- Institute of Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Celle, Germany
| | - Birger Puppe
- Institute of Behavioural Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, Dummerstorf, Germany.,Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Jutta Berk
- Institute of Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Celle, Germany
| | - Lars Schrader
- Institute of Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Celle, Germany
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