Abstract
The results of the research into the microbiological contamination of litter used by broiler chickens are presented. Litter samples were taken prior to the introduction of chicks (day 0) and in 7-day intervals until the end of the fattening period. The total numbers of aerobic mesophilic microorganisms, yeasts, moulds and Clostridium perfringens spores, and the presence of bacteria of the Salmonella genus were determined. The total microbial count in newly laid litter was 7 log10 CFU/g, which increased to 9 log10 CFU/g by the 4th week. However, at the end of the 5th week, it was at the same level as in newly laid litter. C. perfringens spores, presumably originating from chicks? faeces, were first detected on day 7. In the next 7 days their number increased, reaching 3-4 log10 CFU/g, and remained at approximately same levels until the end of the research. The initial mould contamination was 5-6 log10 CFU/g. However, from day 21 moulds were not isolated, but only yeasts of the Saccharomyces genus. It is supposed that these were deposited with chicks? faeces, due to their presence in complete broiler feed. No bacteria of the Salmonella genus were ever isolated from the litter. In conclusion, the total numbers of microorganisms in deep litter reach their peak in approximately a month, which is followed by their decrease. Deep litter is a favourable environment for probiotic yeast cultures. Added to feed intended for broilers, they can positively influence the microbial composition of litter, providing healthier environment to fattening broilers.
Highlights
Bedding material for animal housing is of organic or inorganic origin, primarily made from various by-products of agriculture and wood industry: baled hay, chopped straw, peanut or rice hulls, wood shavings and chips, sawdust, shredded paper etc. (Torok et al, 2009)
The total numbers of microorganisms in deep litter reach their peak in approximately a month, which is followed by their decrease
The assessment of the total number of microorganisms in poultry litter revealed neither increase with time, nor that it was directly proportional to the number of flocks successively grown in the building (Schefferle, 1965; Thaxton et al, 2003): the average number of aerobics plunged after four flocks were kept on the bedding, after which it remained similar, whilst
Summary
Bedding material for animal housing is of organic or inorganic origin, primarily made from various by-products of agriculture and wood industry: baled hay, chopped straw, peanut or rice hulls, wood shavings and chips, sawdust, shredded paper etc. (Torok et al, 2009). When used in intensive broiler production it is expected to absorb moisture, dilute chicken manure and protect the birds from the thermal effects of the floor. Litter is defined as the combination of bedding material, wasted feed and water, manure, feathers, and other detritus from the chicken (Tabler et al, 2009; Ritz et al, 2005: Torok et al, 2009). The birds are continuously in close contact with litter, which may heavily affect their health and influence production performance owing to ammonia, dust particles, high humidity, pH, temperature (Torok et al, 2009) and, primarily, to microorganisms originating from the environment and the chicken’s guts. Certain microbes in bedding material are potential causative agents of bird diseases, but are human pathogens threatening people involved in poultry production. The assessment of the total number of microorganisms in poultry litter revealed neither increase with time (resulting from increased faecal content), nor that it was directly proportional to the number of flocks successively grown in the building (Schefferle, 1965; Thaxton et al, 2003): the average number of aerobics plunged after four flocks were kept on the bedding, after which it remained similar, whilst
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