Chapter 22 - Avian bone physiology and poultry bone disorders

Abstract

The skeletal system of birds serves as the major structural framework of its body that protects the internal organs, maintains mineral homeostasis, harbors bone marrow, and above all, supports the locomotion and flight. Bone is the principal component of skeleton which forms through two ways: one directly through dermal ossification and the other through endochondral ossification that involves the development of a cartilage intermediate. A variety of growth and transcription factors, endocrine, physical, and nutritional factors are responsible for the development and maintenance of bone throughout life. Deficiencies or imbalances of these factors other than infection can lead to bone deformities and diseases. Poultry is a major agricultural commodity which has been genetically selected for fast growth and egg production, and commercially raised to these advantages under different managed conditions. Thus, commercial poultry are vulnerable to a number of skeletal problems due to nutritional imbalances, overlooked management conditions, and infections. This chapter deals with different aspects of avian skeletal development, physiology, and bone disorders largely, with respect to poultry.