1.
Comparative Growth Performance Of Different Broilers Strains
by Syed Ansar Hussain Shah Naqvi | Dr.Farina Malik | Prof.Dr.Muhammad Akram | Prof.Dr.Talat.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2007Dissertation note: This present study was performed to investigate the comparative growth performance of different broiler strains. The experimental birds from four different strains viz Arbor acre (AA), Hubbard (RB), Hybro (FlY), and Starbro (ST) were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups each having 14 birds to evaluate the best performing strain under the local environmental condition. All the chicks in each replicate were weighed and placed in individual litter floor pens with the provision of separate feeding and drinking equipment. Ad. Libitum feed and water was offered to the birds in each replicate with the provision of 24hours light. Commercial broiler starter feed was provided from 0-4 weeks and finisher from 5-6 weeks of age.
Room temperature and humidity percentage was recorded daily. Body weight, feed intake were recorded weekly. FCR was also calculated on weekly basis. And mortality was recorded as and when occurred.
At the end of the experiment two birds' one male and one female from each replicate were randomly selected to study slaughter parameters such as live weight, dressed weight and different organs weight (shank length, head weight, liver weight, gizzard weight, heart weight, intestine weight, intestine length, ceacal weight).
The daily temperature range was 24 C to 40 C and the humidity percentage was from 20 to 90 % throughout the experimental period. The overall data showed no significant difference (P<0.05) in weight gain, feed consumption and FCR values of four different broiler strains. However, consistently higher weight gain and feed consumption was observed in birds of strains AA. Where as comparable FCR values were
observed in birds of strains AA, RB and HY. However birds in strains SB showed lowest (P>0.05) weight gain and highest FCR.
Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed in live weight of male and female birds. Highest (P<0.05) live weight and dressed weight was observed in birds of SB strain. The highest dressing percentage was observed in birds of AA and HY strains.
The significant differences (P<0.05) were observed in head weight of female birds from different broiler strains, the head weight of the birds from HB was significantly (P< 0.05) higher compared to lower weight of AA. The significant difference (P<0.05) was observed in shank length of female of the group AA birds. There was no significance difference (P> 0.05) in the liver weight, gizzard weight, intestinal weight, intestinal length, and ceacal weight of birds from different broiler strains.
The trial indicated that all the broiler strains such as Arbor acre (AA), Hubbard (RB), Hybro (HY), and Starbro (SB) can be reared profitably and uniformly under our local environmental temperature. It is also evident from the data that each strain has its own peculiar characteristics. AA, I-lB. and MY showed better growth performance, whereas maximum mortality was observed in the birds of SB thus indicating poor resistance to the diseases.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1000,T] (1).
2.
Comparative Hatching Traits Of Different Broiler Strains
by Muhammad Usman Khan | Dr.Farinea Malik Khattak | Prof.Dr.Muhammad Akram | Prof.Dr.Talat.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2007Dissertation note: Poultry industry of Pakistan contributes a large segment to the national economy with an investment of more than 70 billions of rupees and has become the second largest industry after textile in Pakistan. The present project is designed to study the comparative hatching traits of different broiler strains. There are many commercial poultry companies that rear parent stocks consisting of different broiler parent strains of Hubbard, Hybro, Starbro, Arbor Acres. This sector is presently showing an annual growth rate of about 10-15 percent per annum and playing a vital role in narrowing down the gap between supply and requirement of animal protein foods. The present project is designed to study the comparative hatching traits of different broiler strains Hubbard, Hybro, Starbro, Arbor Acres.
A total of 600 eggs comprising 150 each of the 4 broiler breeder strains viz. Hubbard, Hybro, Starbro and Arbor acres were purchased from local companies maintaining parent breeder flocks. These eggs were divided into three replicates having 50 eggs of each. All the eggs were examined on the basis of their size, shape and shell texture for the selection of settable eggs in each replicate. All eggs were weighed and coded and 3 eggs from each replicate were taken for measuring the egg quality characteristics before setting in the setter part of the incubator for the first 18 days. On day 19 all eggs were transferred to the hatcher room. Prior to shift eggs to the hatcher, all eggs were candled to check the fertility. Chicks were collected after 21 days from hatcher. The parameter such as, egg Weight, shell weight, shell thickness, albumen Weight, albumen height, yolk colour, yolk height, yolk diameter, yolk weight, yolk index, meat spot, blood spot, hatchability percentage, chick weight, infertility percentage, dead in germ percentage, dead in shell percentage were studied.
The result of present study showed that, the mean egg weight indicated significant differences among different broiler strains. The maximum mean egg weight was recorded in Hubbard strain (68.5 gm ± 4.7).The mean shell weight showed significant difference among different broiler strains. The mean shell thickness showed non-significant difference among different broiler strains. The mean yolk colour, yolk diameter, yolk weight showed significant difference (p<O.O5) among four different broiler strains. The mean yolk height and yolk index showed non-significant difference (P>0.05) among different strains. The mean albumen weight and albumin height indicated significant difference (P<0.05) among four different broiler strains. The meat spot percentage showed that the significantly increased (P<0.05) number of meat spots were observed in eggs obtained from Hubbard strain (1.33 ±4.6) compared to all of other strains. The blood spot percentage significantly (P<0.05) higher number were recorded in starbro strain (1.98 ± 0.56) as compared to all other strains. The hatchability percentage of Hubbard strain (71.63 ± 5.71) was significantly (P<0.05) higher compared to Arbor Acre strain (39.71± 4.91) and Hybro strain (33.57+ 6.22) and the hatchability percentage of Hubbard strain (71.63 ± 5.71) and Starbro strain (68.30± 7.21) were with in same ranges. The mean chick weight indicated significant difference (P<0.05) among different broiler strains. The significantly highest (P<0.05) chick weight was recorded in Hubbard strain (45.17±4.6) as compared to all other strains. The infertility percentage of Hybro strain (1.77±0.20) and Arbor Acre strain (3 9.33±5.42) were significantly (P<0.05) higher compared to infertility percentage of Hubbard strain (14.66±6.67) and Starbro strain (24.50 ±4.26).The dead in shell and dead in germ percentage showed significant difference (P<0.05) among four different broiler strains
Based on the finding of this study it may be concluded that the egg quality characteristics like egg weight, shell weight, yolk colour, yolk weight, yolk diameter, albumin weight, albumin height, meat and blood spot percentage have significant differences among different broiler strains. The shell thickness, yolk index, yolk height non-significant difference among four different broiler strains. The Hubbard strain had maximum egg weight, yolk weight, yolk height, albumen height, in comparison to all other three strains. The results with regard to Hatchability traits like chick weight, hatchability percentage, infertility percentage, dead in germ percentage, dead in shell percentage have significant difference among different broiler strains. The Hubbard strain had maximum hatchability percentage and chick weight in comparison to all other three strains. On the basis of this study it may concluded that Hubbard strain have better results as compared to Arbor Acre, Hybro, Starbro strains.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1001,T] (1).
3.
Efficacy Of Composted Poultry Litter/Dead Birds In Broiler Quail Rations
by Shoukat Ali | Dr. Athar Mahmud | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
drama
Publisher: 2013Dissertation note: The aim of study was to find out the method for disposal of waste material, dead birds and poultry litter and their proper utilization in the poultry industry. Secondly to evaluate the efficacy of composted poultry litter/dead birds in broiler quail ration. The experiment was conducted at Poultry Research and Training Centre and Avian Research and Training Center, UVAS, Lahore in two different phases. The first phase was of 8 weeks duration in which composting of dead birds was doneusing advance windrow pile technique and proximate analysis of the composted material wascarried out. During the second phase, a quail ration was formulated according to dietary recommendations of NRC (1994) with inclusion of 0, 2, 4 and 6% compost and fed to quails,For this purpose, a total of 1200 day old Japanese broiler quails were randomly divided into 4 different experimental groups (A, B, C, and D). Group A was control and group B, C, and D contained 2, 4, and 6% composted ration respectively. The birds in each group were replicated six timescomprising 50 birds in each replicate. After 4 weeks of age three birds per replicate were slaughtered and their slaughtering parameters were recorded. The data thus obtained were analyzed through ANOVA in completely randomized design (Steelet al.1997) and means were compared by Duncan's Multiple Range (DMR) test (Duncan, 1955) using SAS (Statistical Analysis System) version 9.1. In production performance feed intake, body weight, body weight gain and FCR showed positive response when fed different levels of composted diet while mortality % remained unaffected throughout the experimental period. In slaughtering parameters live body weight (g), carcass weight %, dressing Weight %, Giblet weight %, Gizzard weight % and Heart weight % showed positively when fed different levels of composted diet while liver weight % remained unaffected throughout the experimental period.
Key Words: Composted ration, Japanese quail, Production Performance, Slaughtering Parameters.
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4.
Evaluation Of Genetic Diversity Within And Between Quail Breeds In Pakistan
by Armughan Ahmad | Dr. Imran Zahoor | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2014Dissertation note: Abstract Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2173,T] (1).
5.
Effect Of Vitamin E And Selenium Supplementation On The Performance, Carcass Characteristics And Immune Response in Broilers
by Syed Kaleem -Ul- Hassan | Dr.Abdul Waheed Sahota | Prof. Dr.Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2007Dissertation note: The present study was conducted to examine the effect of vitamin E and selenium supplementation on the performance, carcass characteristics and immune response in broilers. For this purpose, 400 commercial day old broiler chicks of Hubbard strain were purchased from a reputed local hatchery. They were maintained in experimental poultry house, Department of Poultry Production, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore during the month of July & August. The chicks were randomly divided into 4 equal experimental groups viz. without supplementation, selenium supplemented, vitamin E supplemented and vitamin E+selenium supplemented, each comprising 100 chicks. The chicks in each group were further randomly sub-divided into 10 replicates of 10 chicks each. All the experimental chicks were initially weighed and individually tagged for identification and kept in 40 pens (10 birds/pen) on littered floor under optimal managemental conditions. The experimental birds were protected against Newcastle Disease through prophylactic vaccination at the age of 4 days (Intraocular route) and then at 21 days (drinking water). Prophylactic vaccination against Infectious Bursal Disease was also performed at 14 and 28 days through drinking water. The birds were given selenium (3mg/kg feed), vitamin E (200 mg/kg feed) and vitamin E+selenium (lcc/10L drinking water) in selenium supplemented, vitamin E supplemented and vitamin E+selenium supplemented groups, respectively, and those in without supplementation were maintained as non-supplemented group. Body weight gain and feed intake were recorded weekly to calculate the Feed Conversion Ratio. At the end of experiment mortality, carcass characteristics, anti-NDV titre were recorded and economics of the project was calculated.
The results of this study indicated significant (P<0.05) differences in feed intake and feed conversion ratio due to supplementation with selenium and vitamin E, however, a non-significant effect on body weight gain of broilers was observed due to supplementation. The feed intake in group without supplementation was significantly (P<0.05) different from all other groups, however, non-significant difference was observed in feed intake of groups selenium supplemented, vitamin E supplemented and vitamin E+selenium supplemented. FCR in group without supplementation was significantly poor than those of other groups, however, non-significant difference in FCR of groups selenium supplemented, vitamin E supplemented and vitamin E+selenium supplemented was observed.
Results obtained from the study showed significant (P<0.05) differences on carcass characteristics i.e. liver weight and bursa weight, however, non-significant difference in dressing percentage, shank length, keel length, gizzard weight, heart weight, spleen weight and bursa of fabricious diameter due to supplementation of selenium and vitamin E was observed. Statistically significant (P<0.05) difference was found in liver weight of broilers between without supplemented and supplemented groups. The liver weight in group selenium supplemented was significantly greater from group without supplementation, however, non-significant difference was observed in liver weight of groups without supplementation, vitamin E supplemented and vitamin E+selenium supplemented. The bursa weight of the birds in group vitamin E+selenium supplemented was significantly lower from all groups, however, non-significant differences were observed among the birds in groups without supplementation, selenium supplemented and vitamin E supplemented.
The results in respect of antibody titres against New castle disease virus vaccine showed that the groups supplemented either with selenium and vitamin E alone or in combination through feed or drinking water gave higher anti-NDV titre than un-supplemented group. The values obtained were 5.30, 6.77, 7.06 and 7.80 for without supplementation, selenium supplemented, vitamin E supplemented and vitamin E+selenium (D), respectively.
The economics of production of broilers in different experimental groups indicated that average cost of production remained RS 91.86, 88.21,86.84 and 87.61 in groups without supplementation (A), selenium supplemented (B), vitamin E supplemented (C) and vitamin E+selenium supplemented (D), respectively, showing a higher cost of production in groups B, C and D by RS 3.65, 5.02 and 4.25, respectively in comparison to the control group on account of additional cost of supplementation with selenium, vitamin E and vitamin E+selenium, respectively. The average return came out to be RS 102.042, 104.304, 104.034 and 103.20 in groups A, B, C and D, respectively, and this variation was due to difference in cost of feed intake and weight gain of broilers in different groups. The average profit per bird in groups A, B, C and D was found to be RS 10.182, 16.094, 17.195 and RS 15.586, respectively, indicating a higher margin of profit in groups B, C and D by RS 5.912, 7.013 and 5.404, respectively, in comparison to the control group.
CONCLUSION
Based on the findings of this study it may be stated that dietary supplementation of selenium (3 mg/kg feed) in broilers may improve feed conversion efficiency. The dietary supplementation with vitamin E (200 mg/kg feed) may increase anti-NDV titres and may enhance economic returns in broilers.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1002,T] (1).
6.
Bioavailability Of Minerals In Different Vegetable Protein Sources Commonly Used In Broiler Ration
by Zaib Mahel | Dr.Farina Malik | Prof.Dr.Muhammad AKram | Prof.Dr.Talat.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2010Dissertation note: The study was designed to investigate the relative bioavailability of minerals in different vegetable protein sources commonly used in broiler ration. The study was conducted in the Poultry Experimental Shed, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore. For this purpose 200 day old broiler chicks were purchased and were randomly distributed into five equal treatment groups A, B, C, D & E containing soyabean based control diet, rapeseed meal, sunflower meal, canola meal and guar meal respectively. Each treatment had 4 replicates having 10 chicks each. Birds were placed on floor for first 10 days then were shifted to cages on day with in same treatment and replicate groups and were fed on experimental feed. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Body weight and feed consumption were recorded weekly and FCR and weight gain was also calculated accordingly.
The experiment was terminated at day 21, all birds were weighed and feed consumption was recorded to calculate weight gain and FCR. Two birds per replicate were randomly selected and 5m1 blood was taken from wing vein prior to slaughtering. After slaughter, organ weights, left tibia bone were taken. Blood samples, left tibia bone ash, and excreta samples were collected for analysis of macro (Ca, P, K, Mg, and Na) and microminerals (Mn, Cu, and Fe) analysis.
Data when statistically analyzed showed that there was a significant differences (P<0.05) between body weights, Birds fed canola and guar meal showed the highest (P<0.05) body weight compared to control birds. Feed consumption & FCR values
showed a non significant difference (P<O.05). Organ weight revealed non significant difference in liver & heart weights (P<O.05), however significantly (P<O.05) highest weights were observed for birds fed diet containing guar meal.
Amount of available Ca in plasma was significantly higher (P<O.05) when guar meal was fed as compared to P arid Mg which showed non significant (P<O.05) differences between treatments and the amount of available minerals Ca, P, Mg, K, and Fe in bone ash were also non significant (P<O.05) among birds fed control, rapeseed, sunflower, canola, and guar meal. The amount of available macrominerals (Ca, P, and Mg) in feed showed a significant difference (P<O.05) when birds were fed sunflower meal, control and guar meal. However, Na, and K levels of feed were non significant (P<O.05). The amount of available macrominerals (Ca, K and Na) in excreta significantly showed (P<O.05) difference when sunflower and guar meal were fed while P and Mg showed non significant (P>O.05) difference among all treatment groups, whereas microminerals like Cu, Mn and Fe showed a significant difference (P<O.05) when birds were fed a soya based control diet.
The overall bioavailability of macro minerals (Ca, P, Mg, K and Na) and microminerals (Cu and Fe) showed significant (P<O.05) among treatments groups. However Mn showed non significant (P<O.05) difference with highest bioavailability of guar meal. The results showed that among protein source supplements, soybean, sunflower, canola and guar meal showed higher digestibility and minerals content as compared to rapeseed meal.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1102,T] (1).
7.
Post Peak Productive Performance Of Local & Imported Quail Parent Stocks Reared Under Different Lighting Regimes
by Muhammad Karim Khan | Dr.Abdul Waheed Sahota | Prof.Dr.Khalid | Prof.Dr.Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2010Dissertation note: The present study was designed to explore the photoperiodic effect of intermittent lighting on various economic traits as well as egg quality traits initiating from post peak egg production in quails. This study was conducted at Avian Research and Training (ART) Centre, Ferozpur Road Lahore with both local and imported quails maintained under different continuous and intermittent lighting regimes. The experimental quails were subjected to 05 different lighting regimes viz., A (16L: 8D), B (8L: 6D: 2L: 8D), C (8L: 7D: IL: 8D), D (8L :7.5D: 0.5L: 8D) and E (8L: 16D) from 23 -34 weeks of age. The group E (8L: 16D) served as a negative control and group A (16L: 8D) was a positive control, while, the three intermittent lighting regimes used as experimental treatments were named as B, C and D. From 15th to 221I1 week the quails were maintained on a long day lighting schedule of (16L: 8D) in order to create uniformity among birds. The effect of these above mentioned lighting schedules on early productive performance of this flock of quails was examined in another study. In this trial the same act of treatments was used to investigate its lighting effect on post peak production (from 23 to 34 weeks). The experiment was conducted on 240 adult quails (23 weeks old) under factorial arrangements of 5 lighting regimes x 4 purebred strains x 3 replicates having 4 quails (1 male: 3 female) each. The experimental quails were maintained in a 5 tier quail battery (each tier had 6 decks). The study was conducted under the same manage mental conditions. The weekly data on body weight, egg production, FCR (for egg production and egg weight), egg quality traits (egg weight, shell weight, shell thickness, haugh unit and yolk index were recorded. The data thus collected were statistically analysed using analysis of variance technique and comparison of means was made using DMR test.
The results of the present study show that mean body weight under light regimes A, B, C, D and E was recorded as 268.81 (+5.09), 280.70 (+12.3), 267.96 (+2.99), 274.10 (+12.3) and 271.20 (+10.3)gm, respectively. A significant (p<0.Ol) effect of light treatments on body weight was observed. The highest body weight (280.70+12.3gm) was recorded under treatment B (8L: 6D: 2L: 8D)which was found to be significantly better than recorded under other treatments, however, A and C and D and E differed non- significantly from each other. Breed differences in body weight were observed to be significant (p<0.Ol). Significantly (p<O.O5) higher body weight was observed in strain M. Body weight between M and K and S and Z strains varied non-significantly. Light and breed interaction was found to be significant (p<O.Ol). The results on feed intake followed almost a similar pattern indicating significant (p<O.Ol) effect of light treatments, breeds and light into breed interaction. However, feed intake under light treatment A (16L: 8D) was more, which varied non-significantly with light treatment D (8L: 7'/2D: '/2L: 8D). The highest feed consumption (p<O.O5) in strain M, which also ranked best in body weight. A non-significant difference in feed intake of M and Z and S and K strains was observed.
The mean egg production of quails under lighting regimes A (16L: 8D), B (8L: 6D: 2L: 8D), C (8L: 7D: 1L: 8D), D (8L: 7V2D: V2L: 8D) and E (8L: 16D) during the experimental period was recorded as 79.49, 74.65, 75.99, 76.33, 75.64 percent, respectively. The effect of lighting treatment was found to be significant (p<O.O5) on mean egg production. The birds in positive control group produced significantly (p<O.O5)
more eggs when compared with birds on experimental treatments. The results indicated that light treatments of quails during growing period significantly (p<O.Ol) influenced the feed conversion ratio (feed/dozen egg) of quails during post peak production with significant (p<O.Ol) breed and light into breed interaction. FCR of quails of negative control group E (8L: 16D) was significantly (p<O.O5) better than all other light treatments. The strain Z exhibited better (p<O.O5) FCR than the strains M and S, however a non-significant difference between Z and K strains was recorded. A similar trend for FCR (feed/kg eggs) was observed except that Z strain exhibited better FCR than other three strains. The results showed non-significant close bred strain as well as light into breed effect. Breeds differed significantly (p<O.O5) in egg weight and K strain had greater egg weight than the other strains. The results in respect of yolk index and yolk height showed a similar trend. The yolk index in K strain was found to be better (p<O.Ol) than other strains except M strain. The yolk height was observed to be significantly better (p<O.O5) in strain M when compared with S and K strains, however, a non-significant effect between close bred strain M and K was observed. The results showed that quails subjected to different lighting regimes during the experimental period significantly (p<O.Ol) influenced egg shell thickness. The birds on experimental regime B (8L: 6D:
2L: 8D) produced significantly (p<O.O5) thicker shells than other competitive treatments. Breed and light into breed effect was also found to be significant (p<O.O5). Strain Z had the greatest shell thickness than all other strains.
The results of the study in respect of other egg quality traits such as Haugh unit, egg shell weight, yolk diameter and albumen height showed non-significant effect ofdifferent lighting regimes applied during experimental period. The effect of breed and light into breed interaction was found to be non-significant.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1109,T] (1).
8.
Evaluation Of Post Peak Production Of Commercial Layers And Fed On Extruded Hatchery Waste Meal
by Rafiullah | Dr. Athar Mahmud | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2010Dissertation note: Poultry feed ingredients are very expensive and raises poultry input cost with an inverse impact at final outcome. To decrease the feed cost and to increase farming output, utilization of non conventional feed resources such as hatchery waste meal (HWM) may be used in layer feed and seems a good economic properties. For this purpose the present study was designed to exploit post peak production of commercial layers supplemented with dietary extruded hatchery waste meal and this trail was carried out at poultry experimental farm University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Lahore. Two experiments were conducted at the poultry experimental farm. In the first experiment raw hatchery was collected from a local hatchery and was dried at oven in 60°C till constant weight was achieved. The dried sample was then cooked by extrusion processes. In the second experiment the dietary inclusion of extruded hatchery waste meal (EHWM) was determined on performance of layer birds. For this purpose two hundred and fifty (250) White Leg horn layers in start of 2nd stage of production (35 weeks old) was procured and divided in to five groups (A, B, C, D and E) in such a way that there were fifty birds in each group. Each group was then further sub divided in to five replicates of ten birds. Group A served as a control. The experimental layers were being kept in cages with the standard norms of husbandry. The duration of experiment was 8 weeks. Four different supplementary levels of extruded hatchery waste meal of groups B, C, D, and E respectively, i.e. 2%, 4%, 6%, 8% were incorporated in layers diet. The parameters studied daily egg production and egg weight, while shell weight, shell thickness, albumen weight, albumen height, yolk weight, yolk diameter, yolk color, and Haugh units were studied on fortnight basis. At the end of the experiment the feasibility of each ration was also calculated. The data thus collected were statistically analyses using analysis of variance technique and comparison of means was made using DMR test.
In the present study the high mean egg production was recorded in treatment 4 (53.2±1.15) in which 6% extruded EHWM was used while the lowest mean egg production was recorded in treatment 2 (49.9±1.82) in which 2% of extruded HWM was used. The result of the present study show non-significant (p>0.05) effect of extruded hatchery waste meal on egg production. Highest value of average egg weight (60.4±0.48) was observed in control group while lowest value (59.2±0.53) was observed by using 8% EHWM. Statistical analysis showed non-significant (P>0.05) effect among treatments. Highest value of mean egg shell weight (7.3±0.17) was observed by using 4% extruded HWM. Lowest value of mean egg shell weight (7.2±0.06) was observed by using 8% HWM. The high value recorded for shell thickness was that of treatment 4 (0.33±0.008) by using 6% dietary EHWM, while lowest value was recorded in treatment 5 (0.31±0.002) using 8% dietary EHWM. The result of mean shell weight and shell thickness also showed non-significant differences (p>0.05) among different treatments.
The results of albumen weight, albumen height and Haugh units showed non-significant (p>0.05) effect of feeding different dietary levels of EHWM to commercial layers. However the highest values recorded for albumen weight and albumen height were (37.5±0.61) and (8.53 0.134) respectively in control group which was without of dietary EHWM. The highest value observed for Haugh units was (91.8±0.57) that of treatment 3 by using 4% EHWM. However albumen weight, albumen height and Haugh unit showed statistically non significant (P>0.05) effect of EHWM fed on experimental commercial layers.
The values for yolk weight, yolk diameter and yolk color were observed in order of merit for treatment, 2 (2% EHWM) (16.0±0.17), treatment 3 (4% EHWM) (38.8±0.11), and treatment 5 (8% EHWM) (5.5±0.15) respectively. Statistically the yolk weight, yolk diameter and yolk color showed non-significant (P>0.05) effect of EHWM on layers performance.
The economic feasibility of each ration was calculated at the end of the experiment. The feed cost per kg and the cost of 1 kg eggs were decreased gradually as dietary supplementary level of HW was increased from 2 to 8% in the diet of commercial layers. The most economical ration was that of treatment 5 in which 8%EHWM was used.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1202,T] (1).
9.
Efficacy Of Commercially Available Natural Enzyme Complex On Performance And Nutrient Availability In Broiler Rations
by Asim Munawar | Prof.Dr.Talat Naseer Pasha | Dr.Saima | Prof.Dr.Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2003Dissertation note: Poultry feed is mainly composed of cereals and vegetable proteins, which cannot be fully digested and utilized by poultry due to lack of endogenous enzymes. As feed costs 70% of total poultry operation, so there is need reconsider enzyme supplementation in such feeds. For this purpose, a total of 800 day old Hubbard broiler chicks will be randomly selected, weighed, and assigned to 5 dietary treatments with 8 replicates per treatment. Feed was procured from a commercial feed mill, comprising of a control diet (2750 Kcal/kg energy with no Allzyme SSF), two negative control diets (Negative Control Diet-I and II having 2700 Kcal/kg and 2675 Kcal/kg energy having no Allzyme SSF) and two positive control diets (2700 Kcal/kg and 2675 Kcal/kg energy having Allzyme SSF @ 200gms/ton).
The average body weights of broilers at different ages showed that broilers of group A attained maximum weight, which was followed by group D, B, E and C, respectively, revealed that the weights of group B, C and E were significantly different from group A, whereas, the differences of group A and D were found non significant that maximum feed consumption was exhibited by group B followed by group C, E, D and A. The data of feed consumption when subjected to analysis of variance showed significant difference (p<0.05) of group B and C with groups A, D, E, while the feed consumption of group B and C was found insignificantly different from each other. The overall FCR of group A was found to be the best among all groups. Next to this was group D, followed by group E, B and C. It is evident from the results that FCR of broilers in group D was very near to control group A, showing activity of enzyme complex in terms of performance.
The highest toe ash percentage (10.83%) was recorded in broilers of group D which was fed diet with 0.1% less available phosphorus and 0.1% calcium but added 200gm/ton enzyme complex, lowest toe ash percentage (9.98%) was recorded in group C which was fed with diet having 0.1% less available phosphorus and 0.1% calcium than control group A with no enzyme complex supplementation. The highest Ca content in plasma was observed in group A, whereas the lowest Ca plasma content was recorded in group B. Phosphorous content in plasma of group D was found to be highest among all the groups followed by E, A, B and C.
No bird had showed any kind of leg weakness/deformity. Critical analysis of the data indicated that birds of group D were reared at lowest feed cost and this diet was found most economical.
Cost of production of feed and per kg live weight can be decreased by use of enzyme complex in feed.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1286,T] (1).
10.
Growth Performance And Carcass Characteristics In Four Different Varieties Of Native Aseel
by Muhmmad Iqbal | Dr. Abdul Waheed Sahota | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
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Publisher: 2011Dissertation note: In Pakistan rural poultry has been playing an important role in the production of eggs and poultry meat. During the year, 2010, the contribution of rural poultry in overall production of eggs and poultry meat in the country has been about 32.15 and 15.38 percent, respectively. However, conservation and genetic improvement of native poultry breeds has been the major problem hindering the development of rural poultry. Aseel is a native rural poultry breed which possesses very good meat production character, however very little research work has been conducted to study its growth and carcass traits. Keeping this in view, the present study was planned to evaluate comparative growth and carcass traits of different varieties of native Aseel. For this purpose 96, day-old Aseel chicks, 24 each of 4 different varieties viz Peshawari, Mianwali, Mushki and Lakha were maintained under standard managemental conditions for a period of 15 weeks according to Completely Randomized Design. The data on weekly body weight gain and feed intake were collected and feed conversion efficiency was worked out. At 12 and 15 weeks of age, carcass characteristics such as dressing percentage, shank length and width, breast length and width, intestinal length and weight and giblet weight were studied
The average feed intake (g) of four varieties of Aseel varied significantly (p>0.05) from 1 to 15 weeks of age. The average body weight (g) of four varieties of Aseel was significantly differed at 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 10th, 13th, 14th and 15 weeks of age. However, non-significant effect was observed at day-old chick and also at 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 9th, 11th and 12th weeks of age. The average of weekly body weight gain (g) of four varieties of Aseel significantly differed at 4th, 5th, 8th, 9th and 10th weeks of age. However, non-significant effect was observed at 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 7th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th weeks of age.
The average of FCR of four varieties of Aseel was varied significantly (p<0.05) at 1st, 4th, 5th, 8th, 9th and 11th weeks of age, however, non-significant effect was observed in 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 7th, 10th, 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th weeks of age. The average mean of times weekly body weight gain of four varieties of Aseel significantly varied (p<0.05) at 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th weeks of age. Non-significant effects was however observed at 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th weeks of age. The weekly average mean intake of protein, calories, calcium, phosphorus and fiber in four varieties of Aseel significantly differed (p<0.05) throughout the experimental period from 1-15 weeks of age.
The results of this study in respect of carcass characteristics indicate that Aseel males had higher live body weight, weight with viscera, dressed weight, shank length, shank width, than Aseel females at 12 and 15 weeks of age. However non-significant differences were observed among the four varieties of Aseel at both 12 and 15 weeks of age in these parameters. The results indicated that males had higher, gizzard weight (with contents), gizzard weight (without contents), breast width, and breast length, than Aseel females at 12 weeks of age. However, non-significant differences were observed between sexes at 15 weeks of age and also among the four varieties of Aseel at both 12 and 15 weeks of age in the above mentioned parameters. Aseel males also exhibited higher intestinal and proventriculus weights than those of Aseel females at 12 weeks of age, however, non-significant differences were observed between sexes at 15 weeks of age in both these parameters.
Significant difference in proventriculus and blood weight was observed among the four varieties of Aseel at 12 weeks of age, whereas, non-significant difference was recorded in proventriculus and blood weight at 15 weeks of age. The results indicated non-significant differences between the sexes at both 12 and 15 weeks of age. Aseel males had higher intestinal length and lungs weight, than that of Aseel females at 15 weeks of age, however, non-significant difference in these parameters was observed between the sexes at 12 weeks of age and also among the four varieties of Aseel at both 12 and 15 weeks of age.
Non-significant differences were noted in liver, heart, abdominal fat and spleen weight among the four varieties of Aseel at 12 and 15 weeks of age. Similarly, non-significant difference was observed between the sexes in respect of liver weight and also non-significant difference was recorded in intestinal weight between the four varieties at 12 weeks of age. Whereas, significant differences were observed in these parameters among four varieties of Aseel at 15 weeks of age. Significant difference was observed in abdominal fat percentage among the four varieties of Aseel at 12 weeks of age, however, non-significant differences was found among the four varieties at 15 weeks of age. The sexes differed non-significantly in abdominal fat percentage and also non-significant difference was observed in testes and ovary weight among the four varieties of Aseel at 12 and 15 weeks of age.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1332,T] (1).
11.
Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, Blood Biochemistry And Immune Response Of Broilers Under Two Rearing Systems Withinthree Different Housing Zones
by Khalid Bilal | Mr. Shahid Mehmood | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2013Dissertation note: Abstract Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1647,T] (1).
12.
Productive And Reproductive Performance Of Four Close-Bred Stocks Of Japanese Quail Reared Under Different Dietary Levels of Lysine
by Abdul Samad Haidary | Mr. Jibran Hussain | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2013Dissertation note: Abstract Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1677,T] (1).
13.
Effect Of Dietary Supplementation Of Different Lutein Sources On Production Performance, Egg Quality And Its Bio-Availability in Eggs of Commercial Layers Categorized in THree Body Weights
by Ahmad Ali Sajjad | Dr. Athar Mahmud | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
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not fiction
Publisher: 2013Dissertation note: The term Designer egg has gained popularity all over the world. Egg which gives some health benefits with the provision of basic nutrients is called designer egg. Lutein a xanthophyll pigment is good for the prevention of age related macular degeneration (AMD).Egg is considered good vehicle for lutein transport as bio-availability of lutein is high through egg. The present study was aimed to produce lutein enriched eggs (designer eggs). Different sources of lutein were used and their effect on production performance and egg quality characteristics was measured. A total number of 432 Hy-line layers categorized into 3 body sizes (Heavy, Medium, Light) were offered 4 different supplementations of lutein (0, free, esterified, free + esterified) replicated 6 times having 6 layers each. Parameters regarding production performance, egg geometry and egg quality were observed.Data were analyzed according to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) technique through Completely Randomized Design (CRD) using factorial arrangement. Means were compared through Duncan Multiple Range Test (Duncan, 1955) with the help of SAS 9.3. Results of the present study showed significantly higher Haugh unit score (87.17±0.39) in light birds during 3rd week whereas, within lutein sources significantly higher Haugh unit score was observed in layers fed with control diets (85.52±0.48). Significantly (p<0.05) higher yolk pH was observed in layers fed with esterified source of lutein whereas significantly higher (8.26±0.06) albumen pH was observed in birds fed with free source of lutein however, different body sizes could not show their effect on yolk and albumen pH. Significantly higher (62.97±0.22) albumen % was observed during 1st week of study in birds fed with esterified source of lutein whereas body weight categories did not affect the albumen% whereas,
yolk % was affected by different body sizes and lutein sources during 1st week of study. Significantly higher mean value (27.48±0.27) of yolk % was recorded in birds fed with combination of free and esters of lutein whereas higher value of yolk % (27.20±0.23) was observed in medium birds. Shell percentage significantly (p<0.05) affected by different body sizes (10.96±0.13) and lutein sources (11.14±0.18) during 1st week of study whereas shell thickness was significantly (p<0.05) affected by lutein sources (0.35±0.004) during 1st week of study. Means of different sources of lutein had significant (p<0.05) effect on yolk color and the highest mean value (11.63±0.15) was observed in birds fed with free source of lutein. Yolk index was significantly (0.36±0.005) affected by different lutein sources however, body sizes did not affect yolk index. As far as egg geometry was concerned egg surface area and egg volume were found to be significantly highest for heavy birds whereas non-significant differences for egg volume and shape index were observed. However, different lutein sources had no effect on egg geometry parameters. Significantly highest egg weight (62.74±0.23) was observed in heavy layers followed by medium (61.56±0.17) and light (60.63±0.17). However, different body weights (narrow ranges) and lutein sources had non-significant effect on production (%), FCR per dozen, egg mass and FCR per kg egg mass.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1747,T] (1).
14.
Effect Of Different Levels Of Defatted Algae Supplement Of The Growth Performance, Blood And Tissue
by Ahsan Mustafa | Dr. Abdul Waheed Sahota | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
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Publisher: 2013Dissertation note: In Pakistan poultry sector is playing a vital role in bridging the gap between supply and requirement of animal protein food for its ever increasing human population. The contribution of poultry sector in agriculture and livestock is about 6.4 and 11.5 percent, respectively (Anonymous, 2012). Poultry meat contributes about 25.8 percent of the total meat produced in the country. This sector has been growing at an annual rate of 8 to 10 percent, producing 131.4 million eggs and 0.834 million metric tons of poultry meat (Anonymous, 2012). However, despite this tremendous growth rate, this sector is facing many challenges which may badly influence its future pace of development. The most important of these is escalating cost of poultry feed which is considered to be the major cost item involving more than 60 to 70 percent share of production cost (Khan et al., 2010). Many of the traditional protein sources used in poultry diet formulations such as soybean, fish, sunflower meal and groundnut meal are becoming extremely expensive.
Rapid growth of human, livestock and poultry population has increased the demand for food and feed which has necessitated that alternative feed resource should be identified and evaluated. Therefore, the search for alternative protein sources has become urgent, and in this context, algae are worthy of consideration. The possibility of using fat-extracted algae (a by-product from bio-fuels production) as a source of protein and other nutrients in poultry feeds appears to be of great significance. The use of algae as a source of nutrients can benefit poultry and bio-fuel industry.
Diatoms are a major group of unicellular algae, and are one of the most common types of phytoplankton. They differ from other algae in the presence of substantial amounts of silicon in their cell membranes. The diatom, Nanofrustulum is currently under investigation as a potential source of oil for bio-fuel production. However, effect of dietary inclusion of defatted algae supplements by replacing soybean meal and corn on the performance of broilers has not yet been thoroughly investigated. The present study was therefore under taken at Poultry Research Farm, Department of Animal Science, University of Cornell, USA, to investigate effect of defatted algae Nanofrustulum meal on the growth performance, blood biochemical composition and gross pathology of tissues in broilers.
For this purpose, two levels of defatted algae Nanofrustulume 7.5 and 10 percent were used. Four different, iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous experimental rations were prepared. The diet A was prepared without inclusion of algae (control), whereas in diets B and C the same algae at the rate of 7.5 percent were incorporated to replace soybean meal and soybean meal + corn, respectively. In diet D, algae at the rate of 10 percent replaced soybean meal and corn. Eighty, commercial (Ross), day-old, broiler chicks, 40 each of both sexes, were randomly divided into to 4 treatment groups (A, B, C and D) with two replicates each of 5 male and female birds per treatment. They were initially weighed and wing banded individually for identification and then maintained in thermostatically controlled battery cages. The birds were provided 22 hours light: 2 hours darkness schedule. All the experimental birds were fed a balanced broiler starter ration and water ad libitum until 21 days of age. All the experimental rations were supplemented with additional quantity of potentially limiting amino acids, lysine and methionine. The amount of corn oil in all the rations was adjusted to maintain metabolizable energy contents at 3000 and 3200 Kcal/Kg for the chick starter and grower rations, respectively. The amino acid contents of starter and grower diets were kept higher than NRC (1994) standards. On day 22nd, the birds were transferred to growing cages maintained at room temperature and similarly fed grower diets ad libitum until 42 days of age. The data on feed intake, body weight gain were collected. Feed conversion efficiency were calculated. On day 42nd of the experiment, the experimental birds were fasted for 3 hours and blood samples were collected from the wing vein from randomly selected, 2 birds each of both the sexes per replicate for determination of blood biochemical composition following standard laboratory procedures. Gross pathology of tissues obtained from slaughtered birds was also performed. The study was conducted according to Randomized Complete Block. Design (RCBD). The data thus recorded was subjected to statistical analysis using Analysis of Variance Technique (Steel et al., 1997). The means were compared using Duncan's Multiple Range (DMR) Test (Duncan, 1955).
The results of this study showed significant (p?0.01) difference in average feed intake among treatments and between sexes of broilers. In male broilers, the significantly highest feed intake was observed in birds fed diet C followed by those fed diets D, A and B, whereas in female broilers the highest feed intake was recorded by the birds fed diet A and then followed by those fed diets B, C and D. The results further showed non-significant differences in feed intake of male broilers between treatment groups C & A and C & D, whereas significant difference was recorded between group B and C. Significantly lowest feed intake was recorded in female broilers fed diet D which was also significantly different from treatment groups A and B. The results also showed that with increase in inclusion levels of algae in female broilers depression in feed intake increased. The results in respect of average weight gain showed that male and female broilers fed the control diet attained the highest weight gain, followed by those fed diets C, D and B, respectively in male broilers and fed diets C, B and D in female broilers, respectively. The male broilers attained significantly (p<0.01) better weight gain than female broilers. The weight gain in broilers fed the control diet was not significantly (p?0.05) different from those fed diet C. The overall results of the study showed depression in weight gain of birds fed diets containing different levels of algae in comparison to those fed control diet.
In the present study, the feed conversion ratio was significantly (p< 0.05) influenced by the diets, however it was not significantly different between sexes. In male broilers the poorest FCR was observed in group D followed by in groups B, C and A. The best FCR in male broilers was recorded in group A which was significantly better than that of treatment groups A and D, however non- significant difference between FCR of groups A and C was recorded. In female broilers, the best FCR was observed in birds fed diet C followed by those fed diets A, D and B, however, non- significant difference in FCR among diets was recorded.
Non- significant (P > 0.05) differences in plasma alkaline phosphatase (AKP), alanine transferase (ALT), serum cholesterol, tri glycerides (TG) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) levels among diets and between sexes were detected. Significant (P > 0.05) differences in serum uric acid among diets and between sexes were detected. Female broilers had significantly higher uric acid levels than male broilers. In male broilers fed diet A, plasma uric acid value was observed to be significantly higher than those fed diet D but it was not significantly (P>0.05) different from those fed diets B and C. In female broilers fed diet A, plasma uric acid concentration was significantly higher than those fed diets C and D, however the differences were observed to be non-significant. Significant (P?0.05) difference was observed between uric acid values both in male and female broilers fed diets B and D, however, female broilers fed diet C differed non- significantly (P?0.05) from those fed diet D. On overall basis, there was significant (P?0.05) reduction in uric acid concentration by addition of 7.5 percent algae in the diets. No gross pathological lesions were seen on internal and outer surfaces of gizzard and proventriculus and these were normal in size, however, the internal membrane of gizzard was darker yellow color in birds fed diets containing algae. No lesions were noticed on liver, spleen and intestines and liver and spleen were normal in size. Liver was also of normal color.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1761,T] (1).
15.
Effect Of Dietary Supplementation Of Different Lutein Sources On Production Performance, Egg Quality And Its Bio-Availability in Eggs of Commercial Layers Categorized in Three Body Weighta
by Ahmad Ali Sajjad | Dr. Athar Mahmud | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
drama
Publisher: 2013Dissertation note: Abstract Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1813,T] (1).
16.
Effect Of Selection For Higher Four Week Body Weight In Four Closebred Stocks And Three Age Groups Of Japanese Quail
by Sohail ahmad | Mr. Jibran hussain | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
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; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2014Dissertation note: Abstract Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1908,T] (1).
17.
Effect Of Cage-Exchange-Floor On Growth Performance And Blood Biochemical Profile In Sexed Broilers Supplemented Different Levels of Mannan Oligosaccharide (MOS)
by Muhammad Talha Altaf | Dr.Shahid Mahmood | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2014Dissertation note: Abstract Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1909,T] (1).
18.
Haemato-Biochemical Profile And Immune Response In 3 Batches Of 4 Closebred Quail Parent Flocks Selected for Higher 4-Week Body Weight in 4th Generation
by Abd ur rehman | Prof. Dr. Athar mahmud | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
Publisher: 2014Dissertation note: Abstract Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1913,T] (1).
19.
Identification Of Snp Markers For Egg Productionand Egg Quality Traits In Aseel And Naked Neck Chickens
by Muhammad usman | Dr..Atia Basheer | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Format:
print
; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2014Dissertation note: Abstract Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 1962,T] (1).
20.
Productive And Reproductive Performance Of The Parents And The Growth Performance Of Subsequent Progeny As Influenced By Molting In Japanese Quails
by Muhammad Imtiaz Azam (2013-VA-566) | Dr. Jibran Hussain | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram | Prof. Dr. Khalid Javed.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: Japanese quail is a member of order Galliformes, family Phasianidae, genus Coturnix and specie Japonica. Scientific name of Japanese quail is Coturnix coturnix japonica (Mizutani, 2003). Japanese quail attained significance as agriculture specie due to its unique flavor of eggs and meat hence got importance as a food animal (Kayang et al. 2004). Egg production is important in south East Asia whereas meat is an important product in Europe (Baumgartner, 1994: Minvielle, 1998). Female quail starts laying at the age of 6 weeks and constantly produces eggs for at least one year. Quail is efficient converter of feed, with each egg a female deposits an edible package of 8 percent of her own body weight as compared to 3 percent in case of chicken (Martin et al. 1998).
Molting in avian species is the periodic shedding and replacement of feathers as well as rejuvenation of the reproductive system (Berry, 2003). Molting has been conducted through different techniques including photoperiod reduction, feed restriction, hormone administration, feeding dietary salt of zinc, aluminium and/or iodine (Khan et al. 2011). Molting has been associated with sudden change in physiological biochemistry which requires restoration before coming into production (Khan et al. 2011). The most important advantage of molting is the rejuvenation of reproductive system which increases tissue efficiency, development of reproductive system, loss of fat on female reproductive system, hence better post-molt performance (Park et al. 2004). Attia et al. (1994) explored that bird’s egg shell quality, albumen quality, and hatchability are influenced by molting method.
Molting is followed by ovary and oviduct histophysiological changes (De-cuypere and Verheyen 1986); affecting egg characteristics, hatchability and chick quality.
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
2
Induced molting is an effective management tool, enabling to meet egg production with demand and even providing greater economic benefit as it reduces bird cost per dozen of eggs because it lengthens the productive life of the hen (Carey and Brake 1987).Induced molting is used in the poultry industry to increase the reproductive lifespan of birds leading to new productive cycles (Laurentiz et al. 2005). In the induced molting methods, 25-30% of body mass reduction from initial weight is ideally required to achieve a maximum post-molt performance (Brake, 1993). Induced molting has been reported to improve egg production and other performance parameters (Akram, 1998; Usman et al. 2013). As to body weight loss (BWL), research studies point out that BWL levels between 25 and 30% promotes better post-molting production in a second laying cycle (Hussein, 1996). Reduction in ovary weight depends upon the duration of fasting or body weight loss levels (Berry, 2003); 15% body weight loss results in heavier eggs as compared to 20-25% (Buhr and Cunningham 1994). Post-molt reproductive improvement is related to the regression and to the regeneration of the cells of reproductive system (Brake and Thaxton 1979). Egg quality and hatchability decrease with the age of the breeder and are reported to be improved in terms of Haugh Units and overall hatchability after molting (Lapaˆo et al. 1999). Induced molting not only helps in improving production performance and egg shell quality but also increases profit by optimizing the use of replacement pullets on commercial layer farms (Bell, 2003).
The combination of feed withdrawal and light reduction was most widely used to induce molting in the US egg industry in the past. Most producers used some form of feed withdrawal for periods of 5 to 14 days in breeder birds (Bell and Kuney 2004).
It is further reported that induced molting improves the post-molt performance of the laying hens compared to the pre-molt performance, this improvement includes egg size, shell quality, internal
INTRODUCTION
3
egg quality, and the rate of egg production. Egg size increases significantly after a molt with a higher percentage of higher grade eggs (Zeelen, 1975). Hatchability is influenced by molting method (Attia et al. 1994). Several researchers studied a relationship among hen age and hatchability (King’ori, 2011). Induced molting through feed withdrawal and photoperiod reduction is an effective method to improve egg production, egg quality, fertility and hatchability of broiler breeders (Moustafa et al. 2010).
The effect of molting in chicken and turkey is very well studied and some basic facts have been well established but its significance in quail production is still having a question mark. Reason being the availability of little information on this aspect of quail production. It is also being felt that in Pakistan, especially at Avian Research and Training Center selection for higher body weight is being practiced since last 5-6 years and with the passage of time final body weight (4 week) of quail is almost doubled. These genetically improved quails need to be subjected to maximum experimentation in order to study their potential and standardize their management requirements. Present study is also an effort in the same direction with the main objective to explore the effect of molting on productive and reproductive performance as well as subsequent progeny growth performance in Japanese quails. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2249-T] (1).
21.
Growth Performance, Body Measurements And Slaughter Characteristics As Affected By Different Patio Strategies And Growth Promoters In Japanese Quail
by Imran Ullah (2013-VA-598) | Dr. Jibran Hussain | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram | Dr. Atia Basheer.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: Coturnix japonica is the zoological name of Japanese quail, which belongs to order Galliformes, family Phasianidae, genus Coturnix and specie japonica (Beletsky, 2006). It is highly disease resistant with a very short maturity age as well as market life (4-5weeks). Female quail starts laying almost at 7-8 weeks of age, hence getting popular (Ashok and Prabakaran 2012).
Generally the chicks are removed from hatcher only when most of chicks have hatched within the period of hatch window which is almost 36 to 48 hours (Careghi et al. 2005). Many factors affect delay in hatching, the most important being the parent flock age, handling of eggs, time of egg preservation and internal incubation conditions (Decuypere et al. 2001). Little space in the hatcher for hatched chicks, opening of hatcher over many time and late collection of chick can lead to dehydrated and low quality chicks (Bamelis et al. 2005). To reduce above stated risks a concept named “Patio system” was introduced in Netherland, proposed by Kuijpers brothers to improve hatchability and growth performance of chicks. In this system pre incubated eggs (hatching phase) and after hatching chicks (brooding phase) are placed combined in hatchery (http://www.vencomatic.com). Patio system improves body weight, quality of chicks and reduces chick mortality in broilers (Van de Ven et al. 2009). A synergistic effect on growth performance and various economic traits can be attained by using patio system and various feed additives such as probiotics, prebiotics or antibiotics etc. The term probiotic is derived from two Latin words “pro” and “bios”. Probiotics are prepared from different species of microorganisms (Bacillus, Enterococcus, Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces) considered as intestinal beneficial microflora (Dankowiakowska et al. 2013). Probiotics are used to make the products through the use of which, many species of animals improve their intestinal miro-flora (Leeson and Summers 1997). Improved beneficial bacteria
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
2
of intestine suppress harmful bacteria like E. coli and produce beneficial enzymes and substances that have antibiotic like effects (Montes and Pugh 1993). Probiotics work by two ways. 1. Competitive exclusion 2. Enhancing immune system. In competitive exclusion, bacterias in gastrointestinal tract produce such type of substances that stunt the growth of harmful bacterias and compete for their predilection site (intestinal epithelium) while second mode of action is, to stimulate their immune system as the young one born is sterile, hence, their gastro intestinal tract (GIT) and beneficial bacterias in GIT are not able to produce antibodies against harmful bacterias that aggregate in chick GIT. By using probiotics that attach intestinal mucosa and create barriers for harmful bacteria and enhance immune system (Dankowiakowska et al. 2013). Different probiotics (Bacillus subtili) have different modes of action (competitive inhibition) that utilize oxygen in GIT of birds and convert them in different useful enzymes (subtilin and catalase) by which friendly bacterias (Lactobacilli) colonize in birds GIT and block predilection site of pathogenic bacteria. In addition, Lactobacilli bacteria produce lactic acid that kill many harmful bacteria like, Salmonella and E.coli (Hosoi et al. 2000). Probiotics are also found to enhance activity of immunoglobulins, macrophages, lymphocytes and interferon (Yang et al. 2009). Birds fed on probiotic mixed diet showed higher body weight and increased carcass percentage (Kabir et al. 2004a) but feed intake, proventiculus, gizzard and liver weight were found to be non-significant among different treatments (Dizaji et al. 2012). Similarly in another study, higher body weight and weight gain were observed in ostrich birds fed on probiotic enriched diet (Karimi-Kivi et al. 2015). Using antibiotics as feed additives can also improve health status of birds. The first antibiotic “chlortetracycline” when used in animal feed during early 1940s increased body weight was observed (Dibner and Richards 2005). For more than 50 years, antibiotics have been used in
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3
poultry feed as a supplement to improve bird’s growth performance, feed conversion ratio and carcass meat yield (Denli et al. 2003). Antibiotics being used in poultry industry are also used therapeutically in human medicines (Edens, 2003). However, recent progress in poultry industry and consumer concerns have risen the questions on use of antibiotics as growth promoters due to their side effects (Wray and Davies 2000). The European Union (EU) banned some antibiotics as growth promoters because of many bacterial strains showing resistant against them (Edens, 2003) In Pakistan high production cost and market price of quail meat discourage both the producer and consumer. The use of patio system may help reduction in production cost, hence, help in gaining the trust and preference of both quail farmers and consumers. Present study was conducted with the main objectives to study the advantages of patio system in Japanese quail and also provide basic information regarding future use of this technique in quails. It was further tried to understand the utility of different growth promoters in quail production with special emphasis on antibiotics and probiotics. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2251-T] (1).
22.
Studies On Growth Performance, Morphology, Reproductive Traits And Behavioral Aspects Of Ring Necked Pheasants In Captivity
by Sana Ashraf | Dr. Arshad Javid | Dr. Khalid Mehmood Anjum | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2015Dissertation note: Besides ecological importance, pheasants also have aesthetic values which mainly contribute to their decline in population due to poaching in their native habitat. Among 49 species of pheasants in the world, 5 are endemic to Pakistan with distribution in the Himalaya and remote northern parts of the country. Due to increase in human population, intrusion, poaching, and habitat disturbance pheasants are threatened. However, much of the work on captivity is based on production rather morphological, ornamentation or reproductive traits which could have important implications for the management of wild and captive populations as a whole. Some studies still remain to be explored.
Present study was conducted to find out the relationship of egg weight with egg quality parameters and growth traits of ring-necked pheasant Phasianuscolchicus. Total of 450 eggs were collected and were divided into three egg weight categories viz. light (20.0-26.0g), medium (27.0-32.0g) and heavy (33.0-40.0g) egg weight eggs. Fifty eggs for each of the egg category were reserved for the evaluation of internal egg quality parameters. External egg quality parameters i.e. egg length, breadth, egg volume and surface area varied significantly (P<0.05) between all the three egg weight categories. Similarly, significantly higher albumen and yolk weight were recorded in heavy weight egg category while non-significant relationship of egg weight was observed for shell and membrane thickness, yolk percentage, yolk index, yolk pH and albumen pH of the egg. The hatching percentage for the remaining 300 egg kept in incubator was 47.33%. Forty chicks from each of the egg weight category were selected and chick weight, wing length and wingspan were taken at the time of hatching and thereafter increase in these parameters were noted on weekly basis. The effect of egg weight on chick weight, live weight gain, wing length and wingspan was significant (P<0.05) from 1st to 12th month of age. Our studies revealed that egg weight has strong influence on external and internal characteristics of the eggs and the growth parameters in P. colchicus chicks.
The present study was planned to evaluate the time budgets of ring necked pheasants Phasianuscolchicus in captivity. The birds were kept in cages of 5 ft × 5 ft × 3 ft (length × width × height) and were housed in a 20 ft × 20 ft (length × width) well ventilated room at Department of Wildlife and Ecology, Ravi Campus, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore. Captive birds were divided into three categories viz. adult male, adult female and chicks and were placed into separate cages. Behavioral parameters viz. jumping, aggression, preening, feather pecking, walking, standing, sitting, litter pecking, drinking, feeding, body shaking, voice call and feather flapping were assessed for 30 birds from each of the three categories through scan sampling. Statistically significant variations were recorded in behavioral aspects among all the three categories. Male birds spent significantly higher times in aggression (155.26±3.10 sec), preening (74.04±3.05 sec), walking (1370.93±54.45 sec), drinking (74.00±3.18 sec), body shaking (24.92 ±3.11 sec), voice call (20.08±3.17 sec) and feather flapping (15.42±2.73 sec) while female P. colchicus spent significantly higher times in sitting (364.57±3.74 sec). Similarly, the chicks spent significantly higher times in jumping (36.17±2.75 sec), feather pecking (265.19±3.17 sec), standing (1230.13±23.86 sec), litter pecking (234.89±2.97 sec) and feeding (115.44±3.11 sec) as compared to the adult female and male birds.
Fecal and blood samples of ring necked pheasants, Phasianuscolchicus were analyzed to record the parasitic prevalence in these pheasants. A total of 1000 samples, 500 blood and 500 fecal samples were collected from Captive Breeding Facilities for Birds, Department of Wildlife and Ecology, Ravi Campus, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore. Parasitic genera identified from blood samples of P. colchicus include Leukocytozoon, Plasmodium and Haemoproteus. Prevalence of Leukocytozoon was 16 % while the prevalence of Haemoproteus was 14.3%. Parasitic genera identified from fecal samples of P. colchicus include Eimeria, Isospora, Trichomonas and Giardia. Eggs of five species of nematodes viz. Capillaria, Syngamus trachea andAscaridia,Heterakisisoloncheand Heterakisgallinarum were also identified from the fecal samples. The ectoparasites include one species of burrowing mite Knemidocoptesmutansand two species of chewing lice i.e. Amyrsideaperdicis and Lipeurusmaculosus.
Variations in hematological parameters during different life history stages were recorded in ring-necked pheasants (Phasianuscolchicus) for a period of 1 year. Thirty birds were selected for analysis of selected hematological parameters viz. red blood cells count, white blood cells count, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations, total serum protein and leucocyte count. These birds were kept in cages, each cage having separate drinking and feeding facilities. Five birds per cage were confined and these cages were housed in a well-ventilated 20 × 20 feet (length × width) room. Blood samples were taken from ulnar vein and variations in blood parameters were recorded on monthly basis. Significantly, lower RBC’s count was observed during 2nd month of age while during same month significantly higher WBC count was noticed. Significantly lower values of hemoglobin were observed during 1st and 2nd month of age. Significantly higher mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration percentage (MCHC%) was recorded during 6th and 7th month of age. Lower packed cell volume (PCV) values were observed during 2nd and 6th month of age while the total serum protein concentrations were recorded maximum during 10th month of age. Significantly, higher heterophils count was recorded during 2nd and 10th month of age while maximum lymphocyte count was observed during 2nd and 7th months of age. Significantly, higher concentrations of monocytes were recorded during 11th, 12thand 10th month of age. The eiosinophils count varied from minimum (110 ± 13.50) during 3rd month to maximum (902 ± 93.22) during 11th month of age. Similarly, significantly higher values of basophils were recorded during 1st month of age. It can be concluded from the present study that the blood profile of the pheasants changes with age.
Variations in hematological parameters for adult male and female ring-necked pheasants (Phasianuscolchicus) were recorded. Forty adult ring-necked pheasants (20 ♂, 20 ♀) were kept in separate cages, each cage having separate drinking and feeding facilities. Five birds per cage were confined and these cages were housed in a well-ventilated 20 × 20 feet (length × width) room. Blood samples were taken from ulnar vein. Different blood and serum chemistry parameters such as red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), hemoglobin (Hb ) concentrations, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), packed cell volume (PCV), heterophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils, ALP, uric acid, cholesterol, total serum protein, albumin and creatinine were determined among adult male and female pheasants. Non-significant differences in RBCs, WBCs, heterophils, eosinophils, MCHC and Hb values were observed among male and female pheasants. Significantly, higher values of lymphocytes, monocytes and PCV were observed in males while higher basophil count was observed in female as compared to male birds. Significantly higher values for ALP, cholesterol, total serum protein and creatinine were observed in males while higher uric acid values were observed in females as compared to male P. colchicus. However, non-significant differences in albumin were recorded among male and female birds.
Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2350-T] (1).
23.
Physiological, Behavioral And Immune Response In Three Commercial Broiler Strains Under Four Heating Systems
by Muhammad Jamil Alvi (2008-VA-480) | Prof. Dr. Athar Mahmud | Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram | Prof. Dr. Saima | Dr. Shahid Mehmood.
Material type: ; Literary form:
not fiction
Publisher: 2016Dissertation note: The performance of broilers maintained under four different brooding systems with respect
to behavior of the birds, blood profile and immune response in comparison to different
strain of broilers raising needs to be studied under local conditions as it has been reported
to possess better prospects. Furthermore, broiler performance in four different brooding
zones having different air quality needs to be investigated in view of their effect on
performance of broilers. In the trial, 360 commercial (Hubbard, Ross, Cobb) day-old broiler
chicks purchased from the local hatchery. Hence the present study was conducted, Department
of Poultry Production, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Ravi campus, Pattoki with
the objectives to compare the effect of strains and heating sources on the behavior (Walking,
Feeding, Jumping, Litter Pecking, Lying, Standing, Preening, Breathing, Fearfulness, Body
stretching, Rubbing beak with body) of the birds. In the present study effect of strains and
heating system on blood biochemistry and immune response were also identified. The behavior
of broilers strains studied under four different heating systems. Each treatment replicated 03 subgroups.
The experimental chicks randomly divided into 36 experimental units of 10 chicks each
after the adaptation period of three weeks. The heating system will be split into 04 groups (A, B,
C and D). The birds in group A kept over hot water pipe lines. The birds in group B will be kept
in gas heater area. The birds in group C kept in diesel brooder area. The birds in group D kept
under pen cake brooder area. The data were analyzed according to analysis of variance
(ANOVA) technique in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) under factorial
arrangements using GLM procedures. Means separated through Duncan Multiple Range
(DMR) test with the help of SAS, 9.1. Results of the present study showed significant highest
jumping behavior in birds reared on hot water pipes as compared to gas heater during starter
SUMMARY
48
phase and grower phase. In interaction, significantly more jumping behavior was recorded on
electric bulbs in Ross when compared with Ross on hot water in starter phase. Significantly
highest aggression was showed in birds reared on gas heaters than birds reared on electric bulb
and diesel brooder. The preening behavior significantly improved in birds reared on gas heaters
in starter, grower and finisher phase. While minimum was recorded on hot water during starter,
grower and finisher phase. The feather picking behavior and walking behavior significantly
higher in birds reared on gas heater during starter, grower and finisher phase. The laying
behavior was statistically significant in Cobb broiler chicks during finisher phase. The feeding
and litter picking behavior significantly higher in Ross broiler chicks during finisher phase. The
under heat source, stretching and rubbing beak with body behavior significantly improved in
Hubbard broiler chicks during starter phase. The blood profile was not significantly influenced
by strains and heating source. The antibody titer against ND and IBD was higher in Ross reared
on water heating system as compared to other strains and heating sources while blood
biochemical profile was also higher in Ross when reared at floor heating system.
Conclusion:
Ross reared under hot water during brooding showed better and healthy behavior
including jumping, aggression, walking, standing, drinking, lying, feeding and litter
picking
Ross strains exhibited better immune response and serum chemistry at hot water brooding
system.
Suggestion and Recommendations:
Hot water can be used as alternative brooding source
Behavior of commercial poultry needs further investigation and research. Availability: Items available for loan: UVAS Library [Call number: 2428-T] (1).
