Higher Egg Weight Research Articles

Egg Quality of Italian Local Chicken Breeds: I. Yield Performance and Physical Characteristics.

The aim of this study was to compare yield performance (from 39 to 50 weeks of age) and egg physical characteristics (at 50 weeks of age) of eight autochthonous chicken breeds of the Veneto region (Italy). Four white eggshell breeds, namely Padovana Camosciata (PA-C, chamois plumage), Padovana Dorata (PA-G, golden plumage), Polverara Bianca (PO-W, white plumage), and Polverara Nera (PO-B, black plumage), and four tinted eggshell breeds, namely Pepoi (PP), Ermellinata di Rovigo (ER), Robusta Maculata (RM), and Robusta Lionata (RL) from a conservation centre were considered in the trial. Significant differences (p < 0.05) among breeds were observed for yield performance and egg quality. From 39 to 50 weeks of age, the hen-day egg production was higher in PA-C and RM than in RL, and PO-W and ER were intermediate; PA-G, PO-B, and PP were the lowest. The hen-day egg production changed according to the age of the hens. From 39 to 42 weeks of age, ER showed the highest hen-day egg production and PA-G the lowest; from 47 to 50 weeks, PA-C, PO-W, and RM were the highest and PP the lowest. The tinted eggshell breeds, with the exception of PP, had higher egg weights than white eggshell breeds. PP egg weight was similar to PO-B. As regards the tinted eggshell breeds, RM eggs had the highest eggshell a* and b*, and PP the lowest. PA-C had the most spherical eggs, and PO-B and ER had the most ovoid eggs. PO-W and RM had the highest eggshell thickness and ER had the lowest. The highest eggshell ratio was observed for PO-W and PO-B, and the lowest for ER. The yolk-to-albumen ratio was higher in the white eggshell breeds than in PP, ER, and RL. ER had the highest Haugh units and PA-G the lowest. PO-W, PO-B, PA-C, PA-G, and ER had the lowest egg inclusions, and RL and RM the highest. Tinted eggshell eggs differed from white eggshell eggs by having higher meat spots. Results indicated that the eggs produced by the eight local chicken breeds differed according to the laying rate and a wide range of physical external and internal characteristics which allow the consumer to distinguish them for their genetic origin by the eggshell shape and colour, and to use them for different purposes to valorise poultry biodiversity.

Evaluating the quality of indigenous chicken eggs in Gena Bossa district of Dawro zone, South Ethiopia

This study was carried out in the Gena Bossa district to evaluate the quality of indigenous chicken eggs in different agro-ecology and education levels of chicken producers. A total of 108 fresh eggs were collected from randomly selected 36 households for the determination of egg quality parameters and three eggs from each household, 36 eggs from each Agro-ecology, and 27 eggs from each education level of farmers collected. Eggs collected from highland agro-ecologies had the highest egg weight (43.94 ± 0.42g), shell thickness (0.54 ± 0.01mm), albumen weight (23.31 ± 0.40g), and shell weight (5.25 ± 0.73g). Lowl and eggs had the highest yolk color score (8.65 ± 0.14). Eggs collected from primary second cycle educated farmers had the highest egg weight (44.41 ± 0.48g), albumen height (5.17 ± 0.17mm), Haugh unit score (75.34 ± 1.41%), yolk height (15.58 ± 0.33), albumen weight (23.65 ± 0.46g), and shell weight (5.33 ± 0.08g). Except for shell thickness (0.54 ± 0.11mm) all egg quality parameters were lowest for eggs collected from illiterate farmers. Egg weight was most appropriate in primary first cycle and primary second cycle interactions with respective highland and midland agro-ecologies. However, shell strength was most appropriate in the interactions of highland agro-ecology with illiterate education level. The combinations of primary second cycle with highland agro-ecology was most appropriate than other interactions for albumen weight. Depending on this conclusion, it will be better to investigate further studies on factors affecting internal and external qualities of the eggs in the study area.

Research Note: Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis reveals potential candidate genes and regulatory pathways associated with egg weight in ducks

Egg weight is an important indicator of egg phenotypic traits, which directly affects the economic benefits of the poultry industry. In the present research, laying ducks were classified into high egg weight (HEW) and light egg weight (LEW) groups. To reveal the underlying mechanism that may be responsible for the egg weight difference, the integrated analysis of transcriptomes and serum metabolomics was performed between the two groups. The results showed extremely significant differences (P < 0.01) in the total egg weight at 300 d, and average egg weight between the HEW and LEW groups. 733, 591, 82, and 74 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the liver, magnum, F1, and F5 (hierarchical follicles) follicle membrane, respectively. The candidate genes were screened further from the perspective of forming an egg. In terms of egg yolk formation, the functional analysis revealed fatty acid metabolism-related pathways account for 36% of the liver's top pathways, including fatty acid biosynthesis, folate biosynthesis, fatty acid metabolism, and glycerol lipid metabolism pathways. FASN gene was identified as the key candidate gene by comprehensive analysis of gene expression and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. In the follicle membrane, the DEGs were mainly enriched in protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, and MAPK signaling pathway, and HSPA2, HSPA8, BAG3 genes were identified as crucial candidate genes. In terms of egg white formation, the functional analysis revealed protein metabolism-related pathways account for 40% of the magnum's top pathways, which includes protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum pathway. HSP90AA1 and HSPA8 genes were identified as key candidate genes. In addition, the integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis showed that arginine and proline metabolism pathways could contribute to differences in egg weight. Thus, we speculated that the potential candidate genes, regulatory pathways, and metabolic biomarkers mentioned above might be responsible for the egg weight difference. These findings might provide a theoretical basis for improving the egg weight of ducks.

Dietary Theabrownin Supplementation Improves Production Performance and Egg Quality by Promoting Intestinal Health and Antioxidant Capacity in Laying Hens.

Simple SummaryEggs are one of the main sources of protein for human beings, and the health of laying hens is closely related to egg production. It has been widely accepted that theabrownin has antioxidative functions, regulating microbiota community and lipid metabolism, but studies on layers are scarce. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of dietary theabrownin supplementation on production performance, egg quality, intestinal health, and antioxidant capacity in laying hens. Our results revealed that the addition of 100 mg/kg theabrownin in the diet could improve performance and egg quality, and extend the shelf life of eggs. On the other hand, the addition of theabrownin increased the antioxidant capacity of the ovary and the magnum and improved intestinal health. These results revealed that dietary theabrownin supplementation was beneficial to improve production performance and egg quality.Theabrownin, an activated and ample pigment in Pu-erh tea, is known to exert antiobesity and antihyperlipidemic effects in humans, mice, and rats. In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of theabrownin (TB) dietary supplementation on production performance, egg quality, intestinal health, and antioxidant capacities in laying hens. In total, 160 Lohmann laying hens (25 weeks old) were randomly split into four groups (each group 40 hens), namely the CONT (control, basal diet + 0 mg/kg TB), TB1 (basal diet + 100 mg/kg TB), TB2 (basal diet + 200 mg/kg TB), and TB4 (basal diet + 400 mg/kg TB) groups, respectively. These were supplemented with TB for 12 weeks. The results showed that the TB1 group exhibited a significantly higher laying rate during 9 to 12 weeks and higher egg weight and feed conversion efficiency (lower FCR) during 5 to 8 weeks and in the overall period (1 to 12 weeks) than the CONT group (p < 0.05). Compared with the CONT group, the eggs from the TB4 group had higher albumen height and Haugh unit than those from the other treatment groups after the 8th and 12th week; notably, the same was also observed in the TB1 and TB2 groups but only after the 12th week (p < 0.05). The albumen quality (albumen height and Haugh unit) after 3 weeks of storage was significantly higher in the TB1, TB2 and TB4 groups than in the CONT group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, TB supplementation lowered the serum levels of total cholesterol and total triglyceride (p < 0.05). Expression analysis revealed that TB2 and TB4 groups had reduced expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (p < 0.05), while TB1, TB2, and TB4 had significantly decreased expression of interleukin-1β and IL-6 (p < 0.05). Conversely, zonula occludens-1, claudin-1, and mucin-2 were upregulated in the TB2 and TB4 groups (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, dietary TB supplementation ameliorated the antioxidant status of the ovary and the magnum, showing a significant reduction in malondialdehyde and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine levels in the magnum, the upregulation of glutathione in the ovary, and superoxide dismutase and catalase in the magnum (p < 0.05). Overall, dietary supplementation with TB (>100 mg/kg) improved production performance and egg storage quality by improving the intestinal health and antioxidant capacities of the reproductive system in laying hens.

Influence of free fatty acid content and degree of fat saturation in laying hen diets on egg quality, yolk fatty acid profile, and cholesterol content

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of dietary free fatty acid (FFA) content and the degree of saturation on egg quality, yolk fatty acid (FA) profile, and yolk cholesterol content. For a 15-wk period, a total of 144 laying hens (19-wk-old) were randomly assigned to 8 treatments arranged in a 2×4 factorial design, with 2 sources of crude oil (soybean oil and palm oil) and 4 levels of FFA (10, 20, 30, and 45%). The dietary treatments were achieved by progressively substituting the original oils with equivalent amounts of their corresponding acid oils (soybean acid oil and palm fatty acid distillate, respectively). No differences in ADFI or egg mass were found. However, dietary FFA reduced egg production (linear, P < 0.05) and increased the feed conversion ratio (linear, P < 0.05). Higher levels of FFA in soybean diets resulted in higher egg weight with higher albumen and yolk weights (linear, P < 0.01). Palm diets presented higher yolk:albumen ratio than soybean diets (P < 0.001), but the effect of FFA did not follow a linear trend. Hens fed soybean diets laid eggs with higher Haugh units (HU) than palm diets (P < 0.001), although increasing the dietary FFA% reduced the HU values in both (linear, P < 0.001). Palm diets enhanced shell quality with greater resistance to breakage, and higher dry matter and ash content than soybean diets (P < 0.05). No differences in egg chemical composition and yolk cholesterol content were found (P > 0.05). The saturation degree had a significant effect on all the analyzed yolk FA (P < 0.001) except for arachidonic acid (C20:4 n-6), whereas increasing the FFA content did not affect to a great extent. These results show that varying dietary FFA level did not affect egg quality and yolk composition as much as the dietary fat source did, supporting the use of acid oils and fatty acid distillates as fat ingredients for feed.

The influence of hen size and diet nutrient density in early lay on hen performance, egg quality, and hen health in late lay

The effect of hen size and diet nutrient density during early lay on egg production (EP) at 24 and 69 wk of age (WOA) and late lay egg quality and hen health was evaluated. Based on bodyweight (BW) at 18 WOA ISA Brown hens were assigned as heavier (HW; n = 120) or lighter weight (LW; n =120). Sixty birds from each BW group were fed an early-lay diet of higher nutrient density (HND), or lower nutrient density (LND) between 18 and 24 WOA. From 25 WOA all hens received the same early-lay diet and then from 40 WOA the mid-lay diet. Hen average daily feed intake (ADFI), hen-day EP, egg weight (EW), egg mass (EM), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were assessed at 24 and 69 WOA. Between 66 and 70 WOA eggshell and internal egg quality was evaluated and at 70 WOA BW, liver and bone health were assessed. At 24 WOA BW was highest in HW birds and birds receiving the HND diet (P < 0.01). Concurrently ADFI, and FCR were higher and hen-day EP was lower in HW compared to LW birds (P < 0.05). The HND diet resulted in lower ADFI and FCR at 24 WOA, but higher EW and EM compared to the LND diet (P < 0.01). At 69 WOA HW birds had higher ADFI, EW (P < 0.02) and heavier 70 WOA BW compared to LW hens. The lower FCR of the LW birds at 69 WOA was approaching significance (P = 0.054). Hen weight and diet density did not affect 69 WOA egg production. Between 18 and 69 WOA cumulative FI and EM were higher in HW hens (P < 0.01) than LW hens, as was cumulative FCR (P = 0.053). Hen weight and diet density did not alter 66–70 WOA internal egg quality, but the HND diet generated thicker eggshells and higher eggshell breaking strength (P < 0.05). Seventy WOA liver health, keel curvature and femur breaking strength did not differ. Overall LW hens had lower FCR than HW hens and the early-lay HND diet facilitated improved eggshell integrity during late lay compared to the LND diet.

Господарськи корисні ознаки оброшинських гусей з білим оперенням

Goal. To study the dynamics of weight and linear growth, egg production, incubation qualities, and physical characteristics of goose eggs of the newly formed Obroshyne white breed group of geese. Methods. Zootechnical, physiological, biochemical, statistical, purebred linear breeding. Control over the growth and development of young animals was carried out until 21 weeks of age. Live weight of geese of both sexes was determined by weighing at daily, 4-, 9-, 12- and 21-weeks of age on SF400 scales with an accuracy of 0.01 g. The exterior of young geese in the above age periods was studied by measuring chest circumference, torso length, keel, shin and mold, as well as indices of the structure of the bird’s body according to conventional methods. They determined the total mass of feather raw materials and the mass fraction of individual components — down and feather (mature, immature), clogging. Incubation qualities of eggs were determined by their fertilization, the number of deaths and hatching of goslings. Physical parameters of eggs (30 pcs.) were evaluated by their weight, length, width, shape index, strength and thickness of the shell according to conventional methods. The obtained research results were statistically processed according to the G. Lakin method (1990) using Microsoft Excel software. Results. The dynamics of weight and linear growth, egg-laying, incubation qualities and physical parameters of goose eggs of the newly formed Obroshyne white breed group of geese were studied. Indicators of productivity of Obroshine white geese of the OB4 line (I group) made: laying — 39,5 pieces for a head; egg weight — 154.1 g; fertility — 84.6%; hatching — 71.9%; the live weight of geese at 9 weeks of age: males — 4380 g, females — 3810 g, survival — 91.8%. Obroshyne white geese of the OB6 line (group II) were characterized by correspondingly higher productivity indicators: laying — by 1.7%, fertilization — by 0.9, hatching of goslings — by 4.4, live weight of geese at 9 weeks of age: males — by 11.10, females by 2.88, survival — by 2.0% with a higher egg weight by 4.3%. Conclusions. Ontogenetic regularities of geese growth were studied: live weight, body measurements of geese of different sexes, as well as egg-laying, incubation qualities and physical parameters of eggs of geese of Obroshyne white breed group of geese. It was found that all birds were well adapted to the natural conditions of the Western region, as well as selected for productive grounds, they had higher rates of fattening and reproductive capacity by 8–11%.

Interspecific variations in external and internal egg quality among various captive avian species from Punjab, Pakistan.

Present study was planned to determine variations in external and internal quality egg parameters of different avian species including ostrich Struthio camelus, ducks Anas platyrhynchos, chicken Gallus gallus, turkeys Meleagris gallopavo and grey francolin Francolinus pondicerinus. All the birds were kept under similar rearing conditions. A total of 150 eggs were collected for each species to record external features of these eggs. Statistically significant (p<0.05) variations were recorded in egg weight, egg length and egg width between ostrich, ducks, chicken, turkey and quail eggs. Significantly (p<0.05) higher egg weight, egg length and egg width was observed for ostrich eggs while the same was lowest for grey francolin eggs. Similarly, significantly (p<0.05) greater shape index and egg volume values were observed for ostrich eggs while lowest shape index values were recorded for turkey eggs and egg volume was lowest for grey francolin. Significantly, higher (p<0.05) values of egg density were noted for eggs of the quail and the same were lowest for ostrich eggs. Non-significant variations in egg density values were observed between eggs of the ducks, chicken, turkey and grey francolin. It has been concluded that the positive correlations between the internal and external egg quality traits indicated that the traits can be improved through selection.

THE PROFILE OF FATTY ACIDS AND THE EGGS QUALITY FROM HENS FED TO THE DIET WITH FLAX SEEDS, RAPESEED MEAL AND VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENTS

This experiment investigates the effect of flaxseed meal, rapeseed meal and vitamin E supplementation, when used together, on the production parameters of fatty acid composition and eggs quality characteristics in Tetra SL laying hens (38 to 46 weeks of age). For this, 120 hens were allocated one of three treatments, with 40 hens in each group. The hens were fed either a control diet (C), a control diet including 2.5 % flaxseed meal and 2.5% rapeseed meal (E1) or 2.5% flaxseed meal and 2.5% rapeseed meal with 73 mg/ kg feed of vitamin E as an antioxidant supplement (E2) for 8 weeks. Hens consuming the E1 diet had greater egg production and egg mass than those from group C. The feed conversion ratio in both the E1 and E2 groups was lower (P &lt; 0.05) than in the C diet group. E2 had considerably higher egg weight, albumen pH, yolk pH and Haugh unit than E1 and C (P0.05), as a response to the vitamin E antioxidant effect. The most α-linolenic fatty acid content (1.07 g FAME) was found in eggs produced by chickens fed the E2 diet, (1.07 g FAME), followed by E1 (0.91 g FAME), with both being significantly higher than C eggs (0.23g FAME). Furthermore, all n-6 studied fatty acids concentrations were significantly lower (P &lt; 0.05) in E1 and E2, while all n-3 fatty acids concentrations were significantly greater (P &gt; 0.05) in E1 and E2. When comparing the n-6/n-3 ratio of fatty acids from experimental treatments (6.44 and 6.74) with C treatment (18.19), a significant difference was observed (almost 65% lower).

Effects of Dried Spinach Leaf Supplementation on Performance and Egg Quality in Laying Hen Diets

This study was aimed to determine effects of the addition of dry spinach leaves to laying hen diets on performance, egg quality and yolk colour. A total of 40 Lohman white laying hens, 38 weeks old, were allocated to 4 treatment groups, with 10 replicates in individual cages. The treatment groups were as follows: 1) Negative control group (NC, there is no colorant), 2) Positive control group (PC, there is commercial colorant) in basal diet), 3) 1% ground dry spinach leaf addition to the diet (SL1) and 3) 2% ground dry spinach leaf addition to the diet (SL2). Supplementation of dried spinach leaf to the laying hen diet did not affect live weight, feed consumption, hen-day egg production, feed conversion ratio (FCR), shape index, and shell thickness. However, the highest egg weight was found in the NC group, and the lowest in the PC and SL2 groups (P&amp;lt;0.01). The SP1 group`s egg mas was higher than the other groups, and SP` group`s egg mas was lower than the other groups (P&amp;lt;0.05). The albumen height was higher in the NC than the SL2 group (P&amp;lt;0.01) and similar PC and SP1 groups. In the NC and PC groups, Haugh unit values were higher than SL2 groups (P&amp;lt;0.05). Egg yolk lightness (L*) in the NC group was higher than SP1 and Sp2 supplemented groups and SL` group`s yellowness (b*) and redness (a*) were higher than other groups (P&amp;lt;0.01). In the PC group yolk color fan value was lower than those of other groups (P&amp;lt;0.01). In conclusion, the use of 1% dry spinach leaves addition to laying hen diets may sufficient to increase the egg yolk color without negatively affecting the performance and egg quality.

Polymorphism analysis and expression profile of the estrogen receptor 2 gene in Leizhou black duck

Our previous study on the ovarian transcriptomic analysis in Leizhou black duck revealed that the ESR2 gene was involved in hormone regulation in reproduction and the estrogen signaling pathway related to reproductive performance was enriched. This suggested that ESR2 may have a functional role in the reproductive performance of the Leizhou black duck. Thus, this study aimed at evaluating the polymorphism of the ESR2 gene and its association with egg-laying traits and the distribution pattern of ESR2 mRNA in laying and non-laying Leizhou black ducks. In this study, genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples of 101 Leizhou black ducks to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the ESR2 gene to elucidate molecular markers highly associated with egg-laying traits. Four each of laying and non-laying Leizhou black ducks were selected to collect different tissues to analyze the ESR2 gene expression. A total of 23 SNPs were identified and association analysis of the single SNP sites showed that SNPs g.56805646 T>C and exon 3-20G>A were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with egg weight. Ducks with CT and AG genotypes had significantly higher (P < 0.05) egg weights than their respective other genotypes. Haplotype association analysis of g.56805646 T>C and exon 3-20G>A showed that the haplotypes were significantly associated with egg weight. Higher egg weight was seen in individuals with H3H4 haplotypes. In the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, the results of qRT/PCR showed that ESR2 mRNA was significantly (P < 0.05) expressed in the ovaries of both duck groups than in the hypothalamus and pituitary. In the oviduct, ESR2 was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the infundibulum and magnum of laying and non-laying ducks respectively. This study provides a molecular marker for selecting Leizhou black ducks for egg production. In addition, it offers theoretical knowledge for studying the related biological functions of the ESR2 gene at the cellular level.

Effects of using processed barley and supplemented multi-enzymes in laying hen rations on egg production, egg quality, and egg fatty acids

In this study, we have observed different technological processes, which are commonly used in poultry production. Rations contained different amounts of barley and multi-enzyme, egg weight, egg mass, egg yield, feed intake, egg weight. The rations of the control groups were as follows: 0% barley (based of corn) (K), 15% untreated barley (A1), 15% pellet barley (A2), 15% flaked barley (A3), 30% untreated barley (A4), 30% pelleted barley (A5), 30% flaked barley (A6), 30% untreated barley + enzyme (0. 025%) (A7). In the research, 64 brown laying hens ATAK-S for 36 weeks were divided into 8 different treatments for egg hens. Thirty-week-old laying hens were divided into 8 groups of 8 animals each with a similar live weight. Each treatment consisted of 8 animals in individual cages. Animals were completely randomly determined, grown in individual cages, and kept under a 16:8 h light: dark lighting period. Feed and water were given as ad-libitum. The highest egg weight was obtained from chickens fed with A2 group (62.98 g), and those chickens fed with A1 group (56.45 g) showed lowest egg weight (p ≤ 0.01) In terms of total egg mass, the statistical differences between the experimental groups were very important, but A2 had the highest value and A4 group had the highest value. (p ≤ 0.01). When considering the average feed consumption, feed consumption of A2 fed chickens was higher than the other groups (p ≤ 0.001). Feed consumption of chickens fed A4 and A7 groups were significantly less than that of A1 group and K group feed consuming groups (p ≤ 0.001). There was no significant difference in mean egg yield between treatments. When egg weight average was examined, it was found that egg weight was higher than A4 group's weight ratios when A7 group's added weighted ratio was considered (p ≤ 0.01). When we examined the omega- 6 (n- 6) and omega-3 (n- 3) fatty acids in the trial, linolelaidic acid, one of the omega 6 fatty acids, was found to differ between treatments (p ≤ 0.05). The lowest value for linolelaidic acid ranged from 0.022 in A3 group, while the highest value was 0.046 in A2 group.

Productivity of Laying Alabio Duck and its Eggs Quality under Exposure of Different Intensity and Color of LED Light

The purpose of this study was to analyze the different combinations of intensity and color of LED monochrome lamps for optimal productivity, as well as the internal and external quality of Alabio duck eggs. The study was carried out for 4 weeks period of raising which was devided in 2 stages. In the first stage, it was used a completely randomized factorial design of 4 light colors x 3 light intensities with 4 replications with 5 ducks of each replicate, totaling 240 laying Alabio ducks. The light color was 4 colors consisted of yellow, red, blue, and green, alongside with intensity levels of 10 lux, 15 lux, and 20 lux. The irradiation method of layer ducks was 18 hours light and 10 hours dark (18L: 10D of ahemeral method). The variables observed were laying age, egg production and the total weight of eggs, mortality, feed consumption, FCR, and income over feed cost (IOFC). In the second stage, it was selected 3 best combination treatments from the first phase. The experimental method was based on a completely randomized design, encompassing the best treatments as P1, P2, and P3, with 5 replications with 10 duck per replicate, totaling 150 laying Alabio ducks. The variables were egg internal quality, which consisted of haugh unit egg, yolk index (EYI), egg albumin index, and yolk color. The external egg quality observed were egg weight, shell thickness, shape index, and specific gravity. The results of the first phase showed the best productivity was achieved in blue color with an intensity of 15 lux on all measured variables. The results in the second stage showed the best treatment is blue light color treatment with a light intensity of 15 lux, on the internal qualities of duck eggs include HU (95.11±2.39), EYI (0.421±0.63), EAI (0.121±0.12), egg yolk color (8.36±0.31), and also the best in terms of external quality, with the highest egg weight (66.76±5.21 g). It was concluded that the combination of blue light color with an intensity of 15 lux significantly increased the egg production and performance of Alabio duck from Kalimantan.

Supplementation of Fermented Moringa Leaf Powder (Moringa oleifera) on Feed Consumption, Egg Weight and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) in Laying Duck

This study aimed to determine the effect of the addition of fermented moringa leaf powder on feed consumption, egg weight, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) of laying ducks. 60 laying ducks were randomized into four treatments i.e. (P0) 0% Moringa leaf powder fermentation, (P1) 0.5% Moringa leaf powder fermentation, (P2) 1% Moringa leaf powder fermentation, and (P3) 1.5% Moringa leaf fermentation. Treatment of concentration refered in 100% commercial feed for 3 weeks. The results showed that the adding of Moringa leaf powder fermentation to feed consumption in each treatment showed significantly different results (p &lt;0.05) in each treatment, with the highest consumption at P2 (176.21 ± 0.92) and the lowest at P0 (158.21 ± 1.07). The results of the study on duck egg weight showed that P1, P2, P3 were significantly different with P0. The highest egg weight in P2 is (70.50 ± 0.34) and the lowest is P0 (66.98a ± 0.29). FCR of laying duck in each treatment showed significantly different results in each treatment, with the highest at P0 (3,81± 0,34) and the lowest at P2 (3,27 ± 0,09). In conclusion, the addition of 1% Moringa leaf powder in 100% of commercial feed can increase feed consumption, increase egg weight and decrease FCR.

Investigation of quality properties of chicken eggs collected periodically from different poultry systems depending on the season

In the present study, changes in the quality characteristics of the albumin and yolk parts of the eggs obtained from different poultry systems for four seasons were investigated. The highest egg weight, shell thickness, dry shell weight, shell deformation, shell fracture, and vitellin membrane strength values were determined to be in cage systems with 70.92 g, 0.45 mm, 9.46 g, 0.79 mm, 71.80 N, and 0.13 N, respectively. L* values of the white and yolk parts increased in the transition between seasons (spring-winter). The highest Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli counts were determined in backyard poultry in winter with 9% and 5% in the albumin, and 6% and 4% in yolk parts, respectively. The highest Listeria spp. count was determined in the eggs obtained from backyard system in summer (2% in white part and 6% in yolk part). Only 5 out of 1,200 eggs collected were positive for Campylobacter spp. Novelty impact statement The highest microbial counts of the white and yolk parts of the eggs were obtained from backyard poultry in summer whereas the lowest counts were determined in samples obtained from cage systems in winter. The samples obtained from the cage and free-range systems, especially in the winter season, had superior quality compared to those obtained from the village type poultry. The quality of the eggs obtained in the winter months was higher than those obtained in the summer months.

The effect of different colored light emitting diode illumination on egg laying performance, egg qualities, blood hormone levels and behavior patterns in Brown Tsaiya duck.

ObjectiveThe objective of this experiment was to investigate the effects of different colors produced by light emitting diode (LED) on Brown Tsaiya ducks.MethodsA total of 144 female Brown Tsaiya ducks were randomly allocated into three individual cage rearing chambers with different LED illumination colors as treatments. Three different treatments were: i) white color, ii) blue color, and iii) red color. The experiment periods were from ducks 21 to 49 weeks of age, determined traits included i) egg laying performance, ii) feed intake, iii) egg shell breaking strength, iv) egg shell thickness, v) egg Haugh unit, vi) egg weight, vii) serum Estradiol and Progesterone concentration, and viii) behavior pattern.ResultsThe results indicated that when compared with white and blue color, red color could stimulate ducks sexual maturation and raised the egg laying performance. The red light group was also observed to have the highest feed intake among three treatments. The blue treatment had the lowest egg shell breaking strength and the highest egg weight among three treatments, nevertheless, no significant difference was observed among three treatments on egg shell thickness and egg Haugh unit. The red light group had higher serum estradiol concentration than the white and blue groups, but no significant difference among treatments on the serum Progesterone concentration was found. The results of behavior pattern indicated that red light group showed more feeding and less resting behavior compared to the blue light group.ConclusionWe found a potential of applying red light illumination in the indoor laying duck raising system with positive results on egg laying performance and acceptable egg weight, equivalent egg qualities compared to white and blue light.

Welfare and performance of commercial laying hens in conventional California cages at different stocking densities

The present experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of different stocking densities on performance and welfare of commercial white leghorn hens (BV 300 strain) reared in conventional California cages. A total of 270 hens were divided into four stocking density groups, viz. 60 sq. inch/387 cm2 (T1); 75 sq. inch/484 cm2 (T2); 85 sq. inch/ 548 cm2 (T3) and 100 sq. inch/645 cm2 (T4) per bird with 18 replicates in each treatment. The experiment was conducted for a 20 week period under uniform standard management practices with birds fed on commercial layer diet. It was observed T3 and T4 group birds had highly significant (P&lt;0.001) percentage of hen day egg production, higher egg weight, better feed conversion ratio, minimum cost of production per egg compared to T2 and T1 at the end of 20 week experimental period. Welfare indicators—Feather score was significantly best in T4 group birds when compared to T1 group, whereas gait score and immunity parameters was non-significant among all the birds reared at different stocking densities. Considering well-being and production performance, the present study confirms that commercial laying hens reared in conventional California cages provided with 85 sq. inch/548 cm2 space per bird gives better quality egg production without compromising birds welfare.

The effect of dietary pectic oligosaccharide supplementation on intestinal health of broiler breeders with different egg-laying rates

This study was conducted to explore whether dietary pectic oligosaccharide (POS) supplementation could improve gut health of broiler breeders with different egg-laying rates. A 2 × 2 factorial design was used in this study. Two hundred fifty-six Arbor Acres broiler breeders (48 wk of age), including 128 average egg-laying rate and 128 low egg-laying rate (LELR) birds, were randomly fed with the diets supplemented with or without 200 mg kg−1 of POS (n = 8). The trial lasted for 8 wk. Compared with average egg-laying rate broiler breeders, LELR broiler breeders had lower laying rate and qualified egg rate (P < 0.05), higher egg weight and feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05), higher malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the jejunum (P < 0.05), higher IL-6 (P < 0.05) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) (P = 0.07) mRNA expressions in the jejunal mucosa, and lower microflora diversity in cecal digesta. Dietary POS supplementation increased egg weight of broiler breeders (P < 0.05), enhanced superoxide dismutase activity in the jejunum (P < 0.05), decreased MDA level in the jejunum (P < 0.05), upregulated zonula occluden 1 mRNA expression in the jejunal mucosa (P < 0.05), downregulated IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expressions in the jejunal mucosa (P < 0.05), and regulated relative abundance of some microbiota (including the phylum and genus, P < 0.05). In addition, in LELR broiler breeders, POS administration enhanced villus height (P = 0.08) and ZO-2 mRNA expression (P = 0.09) in the jejunal mucosa, alleviated the increasing MDA level in the jejunum (P < 0.05) and IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expressions in the jejunal mucosa (P < 0.05), and regulated relative abundance of some microbiota (including the phylum and genus, P < 0.05). These results suggest that supplementing POS in diets may elevate gut health via improvement of intestinal barrier function, antioxidant capacity, and microbiota composition in broiler breeders with different egg-laying rates.

A comparison of intestinal integrity, digestive function, and egg quality in laying hens with different ages

Intestinal integrity, digestive enzyme activity, nutrient utilization, and egg quality of laying hens at different ages were evaluated and compared in this study. A total of 192 Hy-line Brown laying hens at 195-d-old (D195 group), 340-d-old (D340 group), and 525-d-old (D525 group) were allocated into one of 3 groups in accordance with their ages. Each group had 8 replicates of 8 birds each, and all birds were fed a maize-soybean meal basal diet for a 2-wk experiment. Compared with the D195 group, intestinal villus height and ratio of villus height to crypt depth, as well as serum D-lactate content increased in the D525 group (P < 0.05). The sucrase and maltase activities in the jejunal mucosa, amylase activity in the pancreas, and trypsin activity in the jejunal chyme of 525-d-old hens were lower than their 195-d-old counterparts (P < 0.05). In addition, there was a decline of trypsin and lipase activities in the ileal chyme of hens from D525 group in comparison with D195 or D340 group (P < 0.05). Apparent retention of dry matter and crude protein of birds in D340 and D525 group decreased when compared with the D195 group (P < 0.05). Moreover, birds in the D525 group exhibited a lower level of ether extract retention, and higher contents of several excreted amino acids than those in the D195 group (P < 0.05). Compared with the D195 group, eggs harvested from D525 group exhibited lower albumen height, eggshell strength and thickness, and a higher egg weight (P < 0.05). In conclusion, increased intestinal permeability (higher serum D-lactate content), compromised digestive function (lower digestive enzyme activities and apparent nutrient retention, and higher concentrations of excreted amino acids), and poor egg quality (lower albumen height, eggshell strength, and thickness) were observed with increasing age in the laying hens.

Production performance and egg quality traits of kadaknath and an improved breed Chabro under intensive housing system

The present study was conducted to characterise the broiler and layer proficiency of these breeds under intensive housing system in Punjab. The study was conducted during 2019 and 2020 on one day old poultry chicks of Kadaknath and Chabro breeds under intensive housing system at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ropar (Punjab). Evaluation parameters included average weight gain, mortality rate, feed conversion ratio, age at first laying, age at sexual maturity, egg production upto 40 week age, egg weight and external & internal quality of eggs. Chabro birds attained significantly higher body weight (1150.66±30.7g) and showed better FCR (2.67) than Kadaknath (916.58±3.06 g and 2.87, respectively) at 12 week age. Chabrolayers started laying at lower age (141.80±6.31days), attained an early sexual maturity at 167 days, produced higher number of eggs (34.00±20.15 upto 40 week age) and higher egg weight at 40 week age (63.52±3.29g). On the contrary, the onset of laying, sexual maturity, egg production and egg weight at 40 weeks age in Kadaknath was recorded 165.51 ±7.45 days, 184 days, 25.72±11.63 and 62.31±3.20g, respectively. The external and internal egg quality parameters including egg length, width, shape index, Haugh unit and yolk percentage were better recorded in Chabro than in Kadaknath. While Kadaknath breed recorded lower mortality, higher shell weight, shell percentage, yolk height and yolk index. It may be concluded that Chabro could perform better than Kadaknath for certain economic traits under same management conditions. Kadaknath recorded optimum performance with respect to production, reproductive performance and adaptability under intensive housing system.