Abstract
Four replicate experiments were conducted to determine the effects of pinealectomy and environmental lighting on testes and comb weights in the broiler cockerel. Birds were housed in brooder batteries under a 14L:10D fluorescent white light regime for 2 weeks and then allotted to light-controlled chambers. Surgery was performed when the chicks were 3 to 5 days old. The fluorescent light treatments were 14L:10D green (narrow-band, 545nm peak), 14L:10D cool white, and constant darkness. At the end of the 46-day experimental period, testes weights were determined and comb weight recorded.Pinealectomy did not affect testes weights or comb development. Darkness significantly (P<.05) depressed testes and comb weight. This suggests that lack of light, but not pinealectomy, affects circulating hormone levels and/or tissue responsiveness in the young cockerel.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
