Abstract

Requirements for improvement of broiler welfare have initiated certain changes in rearing and management conditions in conventional broiler production, with emphasis on stocking density and duration of photo period. Experimental study was conducted on broilers of fast growing genotypes reared in floor system. Two stocking densities were applied: 12 and 16 birds/m² and two light regimes: continuous: 23 h light (23 L):1 h dark (1 D) and intermittent: 4 h light (4 L): 2 h dark (2D), with 4 repetitions per treatment. Growth dynamics was investigated on 800 broilers and carcass quality traits (carcass weight, conformation, yields of major carcass parts and tibia quality) on sample of 80 carcasses differentiated according to gender of chickens. More intensive growth of broiler in the group reared in lower stocking density, that is, intermittent light regime, was established. Broilers reared in lower stocking density had significantly better carcass conformation and higher yield of breast, whereas in the response to the light regime the effect of sex was determined. Because of more physical activity of broilers in lower stocking density, the parameters of tibia quality are improved. In regard to present measures for preservation and improvement of animal welfare, application of lower stocking density of broilers and intermittent light regime is justified also from the aspect of improvement of carcass quality.

Key words: Broilers, stocking density, light regime, carcass quality.

Abbreviation

SD, stocking density; LR, light regime; L, light; D, dark.