The Productive Performance in Broilers of New Russian Cross Smena-9 at Different Stocking Density

Abstract

AbstractIt is well established that stocking density significantly affects the productive performance in floor-housed broilers. The aim of the study was to define the effective stocking density for the broilers of newly selected cross Smena-9. Three treatments of broilers (74–98 birds per treatment) were housed to 35 days of age in separate boxes with similar management conditions (including numbers of feeders and drinkers) and sawdust as litter material. Stocking density was 18 birds/m2 in control treatment 1 and 15 and 20 birds/m2 in treatments 2 and 3, respectively. It was found that productive performance in broilers tended to decrease with the increase in stocking density. Average live bodyweight at 35 days of age in treatment 2 was higher by 1.26 and 7.48% in compare to treatments 1 and 3, respectively; the European production efficiency factor (EPEF) higher by 14 and 48 points. In treatment 3 the highest yields of live bodyweight and meat per 1 m2 was found. However, the increase in stocking density negatively affected the condition of litter and leg health in broilers: the frequency of pad dermatitis in treatments 3 and 1 was higher 10-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively, in compare to treatment 2 with the lowest stocking density where the best carcass quality was found. The conclusion was made that stocking density 15 birds/m2 is optimal for broilers of new cross Smena-9 from the standpoints of productivity and welfare.KeywordsBroiler chickensOutdoor cultivation technologyPlanting densityProductivityDermatitis of paw padsMeat qualities