Circadian variation in heat production and respiratory quotient in growing broilers maintained at different food intakes and ambient temperatures

Abstract

1. Circadian variations in heat production (HP) rate and respiratory quotient (RQ) were measured in growing broilers maintained at 5 ambient temperatures (14 degrees, 17 degrees, 22 degrees, 27 degrees and 32 degrees C) and at 5 rates of feeding [ad libitum intake and 75%, 50%, 25% and 0% (fasting) of ad libitum intake]. 2. In most cases, the HP rate decreased from 10 30 h (just after food was given) until 00 30 h (the 1-h dark period), showed an overshoot just after the 1-h dark period and then changed little. 3. Circadian variation in RQ , except in the fasted group, showed a similar pattern, which consisted of increase, decrease and constant phases. 4. Food intake affected the pattern of circadian variation in RQ , although ambient temperature had little effect. Possible effects of food intake on the pattern of circadian variation in HP rate were discussed.