ArticlePDF Available

Effect of Environmental Conditions in Poultry Houses on the Performance of Laying Hens

Authors:
Bahar Kocaman at Atatürk University
Bahar Kocaman
Nurinisa Esenbuga at Atatürk University
Nurinisa Esenbuga
Ahmet Yildiz at Atatürk University
Ahmet Yildiz
Ekrem Lacin at Atatürk University
Ekrem Lacin
Show all 5 authorsHide
Download full-text PDF
Read full-text
Download citation

Abstract and Figures

This experiment was conducted to determine the effects of environmental factors (ammonia, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, dust, temperature, relative humidity) on egg production feed consumption and feed conversion ratio. Lohman layers (n = 288, 24 wks of age) were blocked according to the location of cages. In the analysis made, it was observed that air of poultry house and productive performance were significantly affected from seasonal changes. In winter and spring months, the amount of feed consumed per kg egg production was found higher in terms of summer and autumn months. In addition, there was a negative and significant correlation between carbon dioxide and relative humidity and egg production. Also, in case of the existence of the increase in gases of poultry houses, it was determined that feed conversion ratio becomes worse.
Figures - uploaded by Bahar Kocaman
Author content
All figure content in this area was uploaded by Bahar Kocaman
Content may be subject to copyright.
Content uploaded by Bahar Kocaman
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by Bahar Kocaman on Mar 24, 2015
Content may be subject to copyright.
International Journal of Poultry Science 5 (1): 26-30, 2006
ISSN 1682-8356
© Asian Network for Scientific Information, 2006
Corresponding Author: Bahar Kocaman, Department of Agricultural Engineering, College of Agriculture, Atatürk
University, 25240, Erzurum-Turkey, Tel: +90 442-231 26 23, Fax: +90 442-236 09 58
26
Effect of Environmental Conditions in Poultry Houses on the
Performance of Laying Hens
Bahar Kocaman , Nurinisa Esenbuga , Ahmet Yildiz , Ekrem Laçin and Muhlis Macit
1 2 3 3 2
Department of Agricultural Engineering, College of Agriculture,
1
Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture,
2
Department of Animal Husbandry, School of Veterinary Medicine,
3
Atatürk University, 25240-Erzurum, Turkey
Abstract: This experiment was conducted to determine the effects of environmental factors (ammonia,
carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, dust, temperature, relative humidity) on egg production feed consumption
and feed conversion ratio. Lohman layers (n = 288, 24 wks of age) were blocked according to the location
of cages. In the analysis made, it was observed that air of poultry house and productive performance were
significantly affected from seasonal changes. In winter and spring months, the amount of feed consumed
per kg egg production was found higher in terms of summer and autumn months. In addition, there was a
negative and significant correlation between carbon dioxide and relative humidity and egg production. Also,
in case of the existence of the increase in gases of poultry houses, it was determined that feed conversion
ratio becomes worse.
Key words: Environmental condition, laying hens, performance
Introduction
As in other husbandry fields, the aim in chicken
production is to obtain the yield in a desirable level at the
lowest cost. As the chickens have spent their life in
poultry houses, in order for the chicken to be able to
perform their yield capacities entirely, they should be
kept in a good environment conditions with a good care
as well as genetic features. An adequate environment
within poultry houses is a very important requirement for
success in the poultry industry. In poultry houses
environmental conditions mean physical (heat, humidity
and air movement) and chemical factors (ammonia and
carbon dioxide in the compound of the air).
Chickens and their wastes in poultry houses generate
different forms of air pollution, including ammonia,
carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen sulfide and nitrous
oxide gases, as well as dust (Kocaman et al., 2005).
Gases such as carbon dioxide, ammonia and methane
may accumulate and reach toxic levels if adequate
ventilation is not maintained. These different air
pollutants may cause risk to the health of both chickens
and farm workers. Poor environments normally don’t
cause disease directly but they do reduce the chickens’
defenses, making them more susceptible to existing
viruses and pathogens (Quarles and Kling, 1974).
Aerial ammonia in poultry facilities is usually found to be
the most abundant air contaminant. Ammonia
concentration varies depending upon several factors
including temperature, humidity, animal density and
Table 1: Ingredients of the experimental diets
Ingredient
Corn 46.00
Soybean meal (44% CP) 21.00
Wheat 7.00
Barley 3.00
Wheat bran 8.75
Molasses 2.00
Limestone 9.00
Dicalcium phosphate 2.00
1
Salt 0.40
Vitamin-mineral premix 0.40
2
Methionine 0.15
3
Lysine 0.15
4
Ethoxyquin 0.15
5
Each kilogram contained: Ca, 24% and P, 17.5%.
1
Each kilogram contained: Vitamin A, 15,000 IU;
2
cholecalciferol, 1,500 ICU; DL-"-tocopheryl acetate, 30 IU;
menadione, 5.0 mg; thiamine, 3.0 mg; riboflavin, 6.0 mg;
niacin, 20.0 mg; panthotenic acid, 8.0 mg; pyridoxine, 5.0 mg;
folic acid, 1.0 mg; vitamin B , 15 µg; Mn, 80.0 mg; Zn, 60.0
12
mg; Fe, 30.0 mg; Cu, 5.0 mg; I, 2.0 mg; and Se, 0.15 mg.
DL-methionine. L-lysine hydrochloride. An antioxidant.
3 4 5
ventilation rate of the facility. Chickens exposed to
ammonia showed reductions in feed consumption, feed
efficiency, live weight gain, carcass condemnation, and
egg production (Charles and Payne, 1966; Quarles and
Kling, 1974; Reece and Lott, 1980). Humidity and
temperature also have an impact on air quality.
Kocaman et al.: Effect of Environmental Conditions in Poultry Houses on the Performance of Laying Hens
27
Table 2: Means (±S.D.) of performance traits of laying hens and environmental parameter in poultry house
Winter Spring Summer Autumn P
Mean±S.D. Mean±S.D. Mean±S.D. Mean±S.D.
EP 81.51±5.72 92.84±2.83 90.37±1.79 87.28±3.58 ***
ca a b
FC 129.02±4.89 137.57±5.29 127.28±6.41 118.26±5.29 ***
b a a c
FCR 2.11±0.18 2.18±0.16 1.95±0.09 1.79±0.06 ***
a a b c
CO 2700.0±904.9 1623.1±1140.3 715.4±247.8 950.0±308.9 ***
2a b c c
NH 25.06±13.40 16.46±7.89 9.31±2.56 10.50±2.32 ***
3a b cbc
HS5.94±3.99 7.00±3.03 3.54±1.56 1.75±0.62 ***
2a a b b
Temp 17.67±2.09 18.38±2.18 22.38±2.87 19.92±2.64 ***
cbc a b
RH 72.22±6.65 67.00±6.75 60.46±8.29 66.58±8.77 **
a a b a
Dust 2.19±0.49 2.24±0.43 2.34±0.37 2.02±0.39 NS
EP = egg production (%); FC = feed consumption (g/d); FCR = feed conversion ratio (kg feed consumed per kg egg produced);
CO = carbon dioxide (ppm); NH = ammonia (ppm); H S = Hydrogen sulfide (ppm);
2 3 2
Temp = Temperature (°C); RH = relative humidity (%); Dust = dust (mg/m )
3
Table 3: Correlation coefficients (r) between performance traits and environmental parameters of poultry house
EP FC FCR CO NH H SDust Temp RH
2 3 2
EP 1
FC 0.1 1
FCR -0.02 0.66** 1
CO2 -0.36** 0.16 0.65** 1
NH3 -0.21 -0.01 0.59** 0.86** 1
H2S 0.11 0.31* 0.72** 0.69** 0.74** 1
Dust 0.28* 0.16 -0.01 -0.14 -0.16 -0.1 1
Temp 0.16 -0.28* -0.42** -0.45** -0.43** -0.29* 0.17 1
RH -0.36** 0.11 0.18 0.35** 0.28* 0.07 0.09 -0.36** 1*
* P< 0.05 **P<0.01. EP = egg production (%); FC = feed consumption (g/d); FCR = feed conversion ratio (kg feed consumed per kg
egg produced); CO = carbon dioxide (ppm); NH = ammonia (ppm); H S = Hydrogen sulfide (ppm); Temp = Temperature (°C);
2 3 2
RH= relative humidity (%); Dust= dust (mg/m )
3
Ventilation is an important consideration for controlling(Ozen 1986; Turkoglu et al., 1997).
heat, humidity and different gases. In the poultry houses This research was conducted to determine the effects of
of laying hen, optimal temperature is required up to 15-environmental factors (ammonia, carbon dioxide,
20 C. Environmental temperature was correlated withhydrogen sulfide, dust, temperature, relative humidity) on
o
many measures of performance including feed andegg production, feed consumption and feed conversion
water consumption, body weight, egg production, feedratio.
conversion, and egg weight (Sterling et al., 2003). The
reduction of egg production under heat stress may have
been related to the altered respiratory pattern (Xin et al.,
1987). In case of reduction of environmental
temperature, they consume much feed in order to
maintain their body heat (Turkoglu et al., 1997).
Studies on the effects of dust in animal housing
generally indicate potential for adverse effects on the
healthy, growth and development of animals (Janni et
al., 1985; Feddes et al., 1992). Respirable aerosol
particles within poultry housing have been shown to
decrease bird growth (Butler and Egan, 1974), increase
disease transfer within flocks, and increase
condemnation of meat at processing plants (Simensen
and Olson, 1980).
In poultry houses of laying hen, optimal relative humidity
should be between 60-70%. In case of low relative
humidity, dust has increased, and in addition to this, the
respiratory diseases in the chickens have been seen
Materials and Methods
In present study, 288 Lohman layers with uniformity of
94% were blocked according to the location of cages
(48x45x45 cm, widthxdepthxheight). Each treatment was
replicated in 6 cages. The hens were 26 wks of age at
the beginning of the experiment and the study was
conducted over a period of 60 wks. Standard feeder,
watered, lighting and densities were used throughout
the experiment. The diets offered ad libitum in the
experiment are described in Table 1.
Productive performance was evaluated by measuring
egg production, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio.
Feeding, egg collection, and recording were done once
daily, in the morning. Egg production was recorded daily.
Feed was weighed at feeding time, usually every day,
and than left in the feeder at the end of the week was
weighed and subtracted from that which was added
during the week. This gave the total feed intake for 1 wk,
0,00
0,50
1,00
1,50
2,00
2,50
3,00
18.12.02
18.01.03
18.02.03
18.03.03
18.04.03
18.05.03
18.06.03
18.07.03
18.08.03
18.09.03
18.10.03
18.11.03
18.12.03
18.01.04
Time (month)
Feed consumed:egg
production (kg:kg)
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
CO2
(ppm)
FCR CO2
0
10
20
30
40
50
18.12.02
18.01.03
18.02.03
18.03.03
18.04.03
18.05.03
18.06.03
18.07.03
18.08.03
18.09.03
18.10.03
18.11.03
18.12.03
18.01.04
Time (month)
NH3 (ppm)
0,00
0,50
1,00
1,50
2,00
2,50
3,00
Feed consumed:egg
production (kg:kg)
NH3 FCR
Kocaman et al.: Effect of Environmental Conditions in Poultry Houses on the Performance of Laying Hens
28
Fig. 1: The effect of CO level on feed conversion ratio
2
Fig. 2: The effect of NH level on feed conversion ratio
3
and from this total the daily feed intake per hen wasconcentration was measured as mg/m by using a
calculated. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was expressedpersonal dust monitor model HD-1002 by SKCLtd., U.K.
as kilogram of feed consumed per kilogram of eggThe levels of the gases and dust were determined once
produced. in a week during the study. The data were analyzed
Temperature (C) and relative humidity (%) wereusing in SPSS 10.0 computer package program (SPSS,
o
recorded continuously by using a thermohygrograph. Air 1994).
flow velocity was measured by digital anemometers.
Concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO , ppm), ammonia
2
(NH , ppm) and hydrogen sulfide (H S, ppm) were
3 2
determined by utilizing Multiple Gases Detection
Instrument manufactured in Drager, Germany. Total dust
3
Results and Discussion
Air for poultry buildings have less than 3000 ppm CO ,
2
15 ppm NH , 3 ppm H S and 2 mg/m dust at bird level.
3 23
Recommended temperature and relative humidity
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
18.12.02
18.01.03
18.02.03
18.03.03
18.04.03
18.05.03
18.06.03
18.07.03
18.08.03
18.09.03
18.10.03
18.11.03
18.12.03
18.01.04
Time (Month)
Temperature (°C)
0,00
0,50
1,00
1,50
2,00
2,50
3,00
Feed consumed:egg
production (kg:kg)
Temp FCR
Kocaman et al.: Effect of Environmental Conditions in Poultry Houses on the Performance of Laying Hens
29
Fig. 3: The effect of temperature on feed conversion ratio.
values for caged layer houses should be 15-20 C andIn colder climates as Erzurum province of Turkey, many
o
60-70% (Turkoglu et al., 1997; Ellen et al., 2000;poultry houses can not maintain proper ventilation rates.
Chastain, 2005; Kocaman et al., 2005). Gases produced in the manure build up rapidly, often
The values belonging to environment of poultry housereaching harmful levels. Good air quality management
and performance traits of laying hens were analyzed bypractices require heating and ventilating systems that
taking different seasons into consideration, andprovide a balanced environment. Poor environments
presented in Table 2. The amount of relative humidity,normally don’t cause disease directly but they do reduce
temperature, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia and carbonthe chickens’ defenses and performance, making them
dioxide in winter and spring months indicatedmore susceptible to existing viruses and pathogens.
statistically significant in terms of the months of summer
and autumn.
It was observed that daily feed consumption and feed
conversion ratio in summer and autumn months were
lower than those of winter and spring months. Feed
consumed per kg egg production, the hens consumed
less was found to be in the months of spring and
summer than that of winter’s months. Correlation
coefficiencies among various parameters examined in
the present study were given in Table 3. It was
determined that there was very significant and negative
correlation between relative humidity, and egg
production and carbon dioxide. As the values of carbon
dioxide and relative humidity in the poultry houses
increased, egg production decreased. Also, depending
to the increase in the carbon dioxide, ammonia and
hydrogen sulfide in poultry houses, it was observed that
feed conversion ratio become worse. This relation can
be better observed from the graphics of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2.
A negative correlation between daily feed consumption
and temperature in poultry houses was detected. As the
temperature of poultry house increased, feed
consumption reduced. In addition to, feed conversion
ratio also decreased (Fig. 3). A negative correlation
between temperature and feed consumption was
reported by Xin et al. (1987) and Turkoglu et al. (1997)
References
Butler, E.J. and B.J. Egan, 1974. Undirectional air flow
isolators: a review. World’s Poult. Sci., 30: 32-41.
Charles, D.R. and C.G. Payne, 1966. The influence of
graded levels of atmosperic ammonia on chickens.
II. Effects on the performance of laying hens. Br.
Poult. Sci., 7: 189-198.
Chastain, J.P., 2005. Odor control from poultry facilities
www.clemson.edu/peedeerec/certifi/camm_p/ch9/
pch)_03.pdf.
Ellen, H.H., R.W. Bottcher, E. Wachenfelt and H. Takai,
2000. Dust levels and control methods in poultry
houses. J. Agri. Safety and Healty, 6: 275-282.
Feddes, J.J.R., B.S. Koberstein, F.E. Robinson and C.
Ridell, 1992. Misting and ventilation rate effects on
air quality, and heavy from turkey performance and
healty. Can. Agri. Eng., 34: 177-181.
Janni, K.A., P.T. Redig, J.R. Mulhausen and J.A.
Newman, 1985. Turkey grower barn monitoring
results. ASAE, St. Joseph, MI., 85: 4527-4532.
Kocaman, B., A.V. Yaganoglu and M. Yanar, 2005.
Combination of fan ventilation system and spraying
of oil-water mixture on the levels of dust and gases
in caged layer facilities in Eastern Turkey. J. Appl.
Anim. Res., 27: 109-111.
Kocaman et al.: Effect of Environmental Conditions in Poultry Houses on the Performance of Laying Hens
30
Ozen, N., 1986. Tavukçuluk. Ondokuz Mayis Üniv. Ziraat SPSS, 1994. SPSS for Windows, release 10.0, SPSS
Fak., Samsun.
Quarles, C.L. and H.F. Kling, 1974. Evaluation of
ammonia and infectious bronchitis vaccination
stress on broiler performance and carcass quality.
Poult. Sci., 53: 1592-1596.
Reece, F.N. and B.D. Lott, 1980. The effect of ammonia
and carbon dioxide during brooding on the
performance of broiler chickens. Poult. Sci., 59:
1654-1661.
Simensen, E. and L.D. Olson, 1980. Aerosol
transmission of pateurella multocida in turkeys.
Avian Diseases., 24: 1007-1010.
Inc., USA.
Sterling, K.G., D.D. Bell, G.M. Pesti and S.E. Aggrey,
2003. Relationsships among strain, performance,
and environmental temperature in commercial
laying hens. J. Appl. Poult. Res., 12: 85-91.
Turkoglu, M., M. Arda, R. Yetiþir, M. Sarica and C.
Ersayin, 1997. Tavukçuluk bilimi. Samsun.
Xin, H., J.A. DeShazer and M.M. Beck, 1987. Post-effect
of ammonia on energetics o
... A negative correlation between temperature and feed consumption was reported by Turkoglu et al. (1997). It was observed that daily feed consumption and feed conversion ratio in summer and autumn months were lower than those of winter and spring months (Kocaman et al., 2006). Heat stress adversely affects growth rate, feed efficiency, and mortality rate of poultry (Niu et al., 2009). ...
... As the values of relative humidity in the poultry houses increased, egg production decreased. (Kocaman et al., 2006). Heat stress is probably one of the most frequent challenges in poultry production, contributing to reproductive problems, poor egg quality, and impaired skeletal integrity of the hens (Sahin et al., 2007). ...
... pointed out by(Sharma et al., 2022), have a significant impact on the growth performance and egg production of laying hens. It's worth noting that climate change can have far-reaching effects on poultry, including changes in growth rates, appetite, feed utilization, egg production rates, and the weight of eggs, as emphasized by(Saeed et al., 2019).Kocaman et al., (2006) mentioned that average daily feed intake (ADFI) and FCR in summer and autumn months were lower than those of winter and spring seasons, although our study observed lower ADFI in autumn and spring compared to winter (Table 1). discrepancy may be attributed to the influence of climate change, as noted by(Saeed et al., 2019), which can imp ...
Seasonal Monitoring of Indoor Air Quality and Hygiene Score in Closed Hen House and Its Impact on Egg Production A thesis presented by For the Master degree in Veterinary Medicine (Animal, Poultry and Environment Hygiene) Under supervision of
Thesis
Full-text available
  • Jul 2024
Climate change poses considerable challenges to poultry farming, as it affects the microclimate and air quality in poultry houses. This study investigated the influence of seasonal climate variations on the indoor microclimate of a commercial laying hen house in Egypt. It investigated the interplay between microclimate variations, production indices, and histopathological responses to accidental Newcastle disease virus (NDV) infection. Over three seasons (autumn, winter & spring), outdoor and indoor temperatures (Ta.C), relative humidity (RH %), air velocity (AV), and temperature/humidity index (THI) were systemically measured. Productivity indices, including the egg production percentage (EPP), egg weight (EW), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR), were assessed monthly. During an accidental NDV outbreak, humoral immune response (HIR), gross pathology, and histopathological lesions were evaluated. Results revealed that the indoor temperatures closely mirrored the outdoor trends and significantly differed from the outdoor temperatures, except for April and May. Positive correlations were observed between the outdoor and indoor front and back temperatures. The indoor RH% was notably affected by the outdoor RH%, especially in the warm season. Indoor AV consistently lagged outdoor values. The outdoor THI significantly influenced the indoor front and back THI. The indoor microbiological analysis revealed significant differences in the total colony count and the back-side total fungal count... The significant variations in EPP and EW between the front and back sides were influenced by microclimate factors, except in April and May. Notably, AV had a significant positive effect on EW in the front (p = 0.006) and back sides (p = 0.001), while it negatively influenced (p = 0.027) EPP in the backside. However, temperature, RH%, and THI could not serve as predictors for EPP or EW on either farm side. Importantly, the humoral immune response to NDV was consistent across microclimates. Histopathological examination revealed characteristic NDV-associated lesions, with no significant differences between the front and back sides. These findings underscore the challenges posed by microclimate elements fluctuations, highlighting the need for optimizing indoor conditions to enhance laying performance by providing tailored environmental management strategies, particularly near cooling pads and exhaust fans, and reinforcing the importance of biosecurity measures under field challenges with continuous monitoring and adjustment. Keywords: Climate change, Microclimate, Laying hens, Macroclimate, Egg production, Egg weight, Outbreaks; Poultry welfare; Sustainability
View
... The windows of 0.5 x 1.0 m are placed on each long wall of the barn, 3 of which are transom and 3 of which cannot be opened (fixed). It was benefit from equations denoted in (Yaganoglu and Okuroglu, 1989;Kocaman et al., 2006;Rombach et al., 2019), for heat stability calculations, in (Ekmekyapar, 1999;Marciniak, 2014) on moisture balance computations and in (Ekmekyapar, 1999;Okuroglu and Yaganoglu, 2015) to determining the air flow rate and the size of the ventilation apertures. Project internal temperature and indoor air relative moisture in the heat and moisture stability calculations in calf barn in the winter was taken as 10 o C and 80%, respectively (Yaganoglu and Okuroglu, 1989;Ekmekyapar, 2001;Kocaman et al., 2006).It was accepted -14.3 o C which is the coldest month average low temperature of the region as Project external temperature and value of 77% which is the average of the average relative moisture values observed in December, January, February and March in Erzurum as relative moisture of outside air (Anonymous, 2022).It was acknowledged respectively as 15 o C and %75 the temperature and relative humidity of indoor and respectively as 8 o C and 63% the temperature and relative humidity of outside in mid season ventilation calculations (Okuroglu, 1988;Ekmekyapar, 1999;Marciniak, 2014). ...
... It was benefit from equations denoted in (Yaganoglu and Okuroglu, 1989;Kocaman et al., 2006;Rombach et al., 2019), for heat stability calculations, in (Ekmekyapar, 1999;Marciniak, 2014) on moisture balance computations and in (Ekmekyapar, 1999;Okuroglu and Yaganoglu, 2015) to determining the air flow rate and the size of the ventilation apertures. Project internal temperature and indoor air relative moisture in the heat and moisture stability calculations in calf barn in the winter was taken as 10 o C and 80%, respectively (Yaganoglu and Okuroglu, 1989;Ekmekyapar, 2001;Kocaman et al., 2006).It was accepted -14.3 o C which is the coldest month average low temperature of the region as Project external temperature and value of 77% which is the average of the average relative moisture values observed in December, January, February and March in Erzurum as relative moisture of outside air (Anonymous, 2022).It was acknowledged respectively as 15 o C and %75 the temperature and relative humidity of indoor and respectively as 8 o C and 63% the temperature and relative humidity of outside in mid season ventilation calculations (Okuroglu, 1988;Ekmekyapar, 1999;Marciniak, 2014). ...
... In the evaluation of the data statistical methods given in Kocaman et al. (2006) were used. Variance and Independent Sample T-Test were performed according to the criteria specified in Tan (2015) and Standard Deviation values were evaluated according to the principles specified in Lovarelli et al. (2020). ...
EFFECTS OF NATURAL VENTILATION SYSTEM WITH UNDERGROUND PIPE ON CALF BARN CONDITIONS IN WINTER
Article
  • Mar 2024
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of natural ventilation system with underground pipe which is an alternative ventilation system for temperature, relative humidity and air flow rate parameters in the calf stall indoor environment during the winter, when animals continuously stay in the barn. The temperature, relative humidity and air flow rate values of stall interior and outdoor air were continuously measured during the months of December, January, February, March by applying natural ventilation system with underground pipe and traditional ventilation system with windows in a 48 head calf barn with a floor area of 150 m2. Measured parameters in both ventilation systems were statistically compared.In the wake of implementing; It has been observed that the natural ventilation system with underground pipe in the calf barn in frigid meteorological conditions has a statistically better good achieve on the temperature, relative moisture and air flow rate criteria inside the stall than the traditional ventilation system carried out with windows.In the natural ventilation system with underground pipe, the outside air is taken from the exterior surface of ones of the lengthy sides of the barn, passes under the barn floor transversely and enters the stall from inner surface of the other lengthy side of the barn. Thus, outside air coming in the stall through underground pipes becomes warmer than the outside air picked up into the barn by windows. In addition, since the air taken into the barn with the underground pipe ventilation system penetrates directly into the ground and comes out of the chimneys, it allows the air inside the barn to be cleaned faster than traditional ventilation systems. Keywords: calf stable, natural ventilation, underground piped natural ventilation, temperature, relative humidity
View
... Production performance is important indicator to measure the production status of poultry farms, directly influencing their economic benefits. Production performance of laying hens is influenced by various factors such as genetics, nutrition, diseases, and the environment (Wilson, 2017;Hocking, 2010;Nys, 2017;Bryden et al., 2021;Desbruslais et al., 2021;Kocaman et al., 2006;Abdisa and Tagesu, 2017;Jatav and Verma, 2021;Abd El-Hack et al., 2022). Among these, the impact of environmental factors has been receiving increasing attention in recent years. ...
... A comfortable environment is vital for achieving optimal production performance. An unsuitable environment can trigger a chain reaction that adversely affects caged hens, leading to reduced overall production efficiency (Kocaman et al., 2006;Zhao et al., 2013;Liu et al., 2022). Although large-scale henhouses typically maintain environmental conditions within a reasonable range, environmental conditions are not the same in every part of the house in actual production. ...
... We observed differences in production performance. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the production performance of laying hens is influenced by various factors, including genetics, nutrition, diseases, and the environment (Wilson, 2017;Hocking, 2010;Nys, 2017;Bryden et al., 2021;Desbruslais et al., 2021;Kocaman et al., 2006;Abdisa and Tagesu, 2017;Jatav and Verma, 2021;Abd El-Hack et al., 2022). In this study, however, the chickens were of the same breed and fed diets with similar nutrient composition and form. ...
Stduy on the changing patterns of production performance of laying hens and their relationships with environmental factors in a large-scale henhouse
Article
Full-text available
  • Aug 2024
  • POULTRY SCI
The production performance of laying hens is influenced by various environmental factors within the henhouse. The intricate interactions among these factors make the impact process highly complicated. The exact relationships between production performance and environmental variables are still not well understood. In this study, we measured the production performance of laying hens and various environmental variables across different parts of the henhouse, evaluated the weight of each environmental variable, and constructed a laying rate prediction model. Results displayed that body weight, laying rate, egg weight and eggshell thickness of hens decrease gradually from WCA to FA (P < 0.05). Serum levels of FSH and LH, as well as antibody level of H5 Re-13, gradually decrease from WCA to FA (P < 0.05). Moreover, the values for temperature (T), temperature-humidity index (THI), air velocity (AV), carbon dioxide (CO2), and particulate matter (PM2.5) gradually increase from WCA to FA (P < 0.05). Conversely, the relative humidity (RH) value gradually decreases from FA to WCA (P < 0.05). Additionally, the weights of the environmental variables, determined using a combination of the grey relational analysis (GRA) and analytic hierarchy process (AHP), were as follows in descending order: RH, THI, T, light intensity (LI), AV, PM2.5, NH3, and CO2. When the number of decision trees in the laying rate prediction model was set to 2,500, the results displayed a high level of agreement between the model's predictions and the observed outcomes. The model's performance evaluation yielded an R² value of 0.89995 for the test set, suggesting strong predictive effects. In conclusion, the current study revealed significant differences in both the production performance of laying hens and the environmental variables across different parts of the henhouse. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that different environmental factors have distinct impacts on laying rate, with humidity and temperature identified as the primary factors. Finally, a multi-variable prediction model was constructed, exhibiting high accuracy in predicting laying rate.
View
... Poor environment condition directly reduces poultry welfare, and affects the chickens' defenses, making them more susceptible to existing viruses and pathogens. Conversely, maintaining comfortable environment and good air quality is essential to ensuring optimal production performance, welfare, and health of poultry (Kocaman et al., 2006;Zhao et al., 2013). However, data on the effects of environmental variables on FCR are limited. ...
... This factor may be a more prevalent reason for low FCR. Air velocity is an important consideration for controlling heat, humidity and different gases etc (Kocaman et al., 2006). In the present study, HFCR group displayed a higher air velocity, which is clearly attributed to the measurement point's proximity to the fan in the end section of henhouse. ...
Novel insight into the feed conversion ratio in laying hens and construction of its prediction model
Article
Full-text available
  • Jul 2024
  • POULTRY SCI
Feed efficiency (FE) is an important economic factor in poultry production, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) is one of the most widely used measures of FE. Factors associated with FCR include genetics, the environment, and other factors. However, the mechanisms responsible for FCR in chickens are still less well appreciated. In this study, we examined the pattern changes of FCR, then delved into understanding the mechanisms behind these variations from both genetic and environmental perspectives. Most interestingly, the FCR at the front section of henhouse exhibited the lowest value. Further investigation revealed that laying rate in the high FCR (HFCR) group was lower than that in the low FCR (LFCR) group (P < 0.05). Cortisol, total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), and IgG levels in the LFCR group were significantly lower than those in the HFCR group (P < 0.05), while BUN level was significantly higher than that in the HFCR group (P < 0.05). We identified a total of 67 and 10 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with FCR in ovarian and small intestine tissues, respectively. Functional enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed that they might affect FCR by modulating genes associated with salivary secretion, ferroptosis, and mineral absorption. Moreover, values for relative humidity (RH), air velocity (AV), PM2.5, ammonia (NH3), and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the LFCR group were significantly lower than those in the HFCR group (P < 0.05). Conversely, value for light intensity (LI) in the LFCR group was significantly higher than that in the HFCR group (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between FCR and RH, AV, PM2.5, NH3, and CO2, and a negative correlation with LI. Finally, the FCR prediction model was successfully constructed based on multiple environmental variables using the random forest algorithm, providing a valuable tool for predicting FCR in chickens.
View
... Kocaman et al.1 previously reported a strong negative correlation between the RH% and EPP, indicating that as the RH% in poultry houses increased, the EPP tended to decrease. ...
Newcastle viral disease causation web correlations with laying hen productivity
Article
Full-text available
  • Jul 2024
Environmental conditions profoundly impact the health, welfare, and productivity of laying hens in commercial poultry farming. We investigated the association between microclimate variations, production indices, and histopathological responses to accidental Newcastle disease virus (NDV) infection within a controlled closed-house system. The study was conducted over seven months in a laying hen facility in Cairo, Egypt. Microclimate measurements included temperature, relative humidity (RH%), air velocity (AV), and the temperature humidity index (THI) that were obtained from specific locations on the front and back sides of the facility. Productivity indices, including the egg production percentage (EPP), egg weight (EW), average daily feed intake, and feed conversion ratio, were assessed monthly. During an NDV outbreak, humoral immune responses, gross pathology, and histopathological changes were evaluated. The results demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) variations in EPP and EW between the front and back sides except in April and May. AV had a significant (p = 0.006) positive effect (Beta = 0.346) on EW on the front side. On the back side, AV had a significant (p = 0.001) positive effect (Beta = 0.474) on EW, while it negatively influenced (p = 0.027) EPP (Beta = − 0.281). However, temperature, RH%, and THI had no impact and could not serve as predictors for EPP or EW on either farm side. The humoral immune response to NDV was consistent across microclimates, highlighting the resilience of hens. Histopathological examination revealed characteristic NDV-associated lesions, with no significant differences between the microclimates. This study underscores the significance of optimizing microclimate conditions to enhance laying performance by providing tailored environmental management strategies based on seasonal variations, ensuring consistent airflow, particularly near cooling pads and exhaust fans, and reinforcing the importance of biosecurity measures under field challenges with continuous monitoring and adjustment.
View
... Achieving peak performance in laying hen houses hinges on effective air quality management, a goal that necessitates well-designed heating and ventilation systems capable of maintaining a harmonious indoor environment [8]. The humidity levels within these housing facilities are of particular importance because they are influenced by both the respiration of the chickens and the exchange of surface moisture [9]. ...
View
... Temperature is a crucial factor that can significantly influence hen behavior (Lara and Rostagno, 2013) and indoor air quality (Kocaman et al., 2006;Bist et al., 2023b,d). In this study, we maintained consistent and similar temperatures across all treatment rooms throughout the experiment. ...
Electrostatic particle ionization for suppressing air pollutants in cage-free layer facilities
Article
Full-text available
  • Apr 2024
  • POULTRY SCI
The increasing demand for cage-free (CF) poultry farming raises concern regarding air pollutant emissions in these housing systems. Previous studies have indicated that air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) and ammonia (NH3) pose substantial risks to the health of birds and workers. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of electrostatic particle ionization (EPI) technology with different lengths of ion precipitators in reducing air pollutants and investigate the relationship between PM reduction and electricity consumption. Four identical CF rooms were utilized, each accommodating 175 hens of 77 wk of age (WOA). A Latin Square Design method was employed, with 4 treatment lengths: T1 = control (0 m), T2 = 12 ft (3.7 m), T3 = 24 ft (7.3 m), and T4 = 36 ft (11.0 m), where room and WOA are considered as blocking factors. Daily PM concentrations, temperature, and humidity measurements were conducted over 24 h, while NH3 levels, litter moisture content (LMC), and ventilation were measured twice a week in each treatment room. Statistical analysis involved ANOVA, and mean comparisons were performed using the Tukey HSD method with a significance level of P ≤ 0.05. This study found that the EPI system with longer wires reduced PM2.5 concentrations (P ≤ 0.01). Treatment T2, T3, and T4 led to reductions in PM2.5 by 12.1%, 19.3%, and 31.7%, respectively, and in small particle concentrations (particle size >0.5 μm) by 18.0%, 21.1%, and 32.4%, respectively. However, no significant differences were observed for PM10 and large particles (particle size >2.5 μm) (P < 0.10), though the data suggests potential reductions in PM10 (32.7%) and large particles (33.3%) by the T4 treatment. Similarly, there was no significant impact of treatment on NH3 reduction (P = 0.712), possibly due to low NH3 concentration (<2 ppm) and low LMC (<13%) among treatment rooms. Electricity consumption was significantly related to the length of the EPI system (P ≤ 0.01), with longer lengths leading to higher consumption rates. Overall, a longer-length EPI corona pipe is recommended for better air pollutant reduction in CF housing. Further research should focus on enhancing EPI technology, assessing cost-effectiveness, and exploring combinations with other PM reduction strategies.
View
... Among monogastric animals, birds are particularly susceptible to high temperatures compared to other monogastric animals, which is primarily due to their feather coverage and absence of sweat glands [1]. Kocaman and Balnave et al. reported that the optimal temperature range for laying hens is typically between 16 and 25 • C [2,3]. Heat stress could occur when birds adapted to lower ambient temperatures encounter rising temperatures above 25 • C. ...
Effects and Mechanisms Investigation of Heat Stress on Egg Yolk Quality in Huaixiang Chickens
Article
Full-text available
  • Nov 2023
Simple Summary High ambient temperature is a significant factor contributing to economic losses in the poultry industry. Heat stress had adverse effects on the growth performance, reproductive performance, and egg production of poultry birds. However, the specific impact of heat stress on internal egg yolk quality parameters and the potential mechanisms of local chickens remain to be further studied. The purpose of this study was to explore the influences of heat exposure on internal egg yolk quality parameters and their possible mechanisms in Guangdong Province Xinyi Huaixiang chickens. Our results revealed that heat exposure (32 °C) for 6 weeks reduced yolk weight, yolk color, and egg weight. Additionally, we observed an upregulation of lipid metabolism-related genes, including SREBP-1c, ACACA, and FASN. These results provided valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of egg yolk quality changes induced by heat stress. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for mitigating the negative impact of heat stress on poultry production and improving the overall performance and well-being of poultry birds. Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of high temperature on internal egg yolk quality parameters and their possible mechanisms in Huaixiang chickens. This study consisted of two treatments, and each treatment had six replicates with six birds per cage. A total of seventy-two 26-week-old female Huaixiang chickens were randomly divided into a normal-temperature group (NT) and a high-temperature group (HT) for 6 weeks. And these hens were exposed to 25 ± 2 °C and 32 ± 2 °C, respectively. Their relative humidity was maintained at 55–65%. The results showed that the HT group significantly reduced yolk weight, yolk color, and egg weight compared to the NT group (p < 0.05). Heat stress caused vacuolar degeneration of the liver and reduced the absolute liver weight (p < 0.05). Both yolk triglyceride (TG) and liver TG in the HT group were significantly higher than in the NT group (p < 0.05). However, the liver total cholesterol (TC) level in the HT group was remarkably lower than that in the NT group (p < 0.05). Additionally, heat stress remarkably enhanced SREBP-1c, ACACA, and FASN lipid metabolism-related gene mRNA expression levels in Huaixiang chicken liver after 6 weeks of heat exposure (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the HT group had remarkably reduced total amino acid, Cys, and Tyr levels in the yolk when compared with the NT group in our experiment (p < 0.05). In conclusion, heat stress causes egg yolk quality reduction and abnormal lipid metabolism in Huaixiang chickens. These findings provided novel insights into the role of high temperature on egg yolk parameters and the underlying mechanisms in Chinese indigenous laying hens.
View
View
A critical assessment of the cellular defences of the avian respiratory system: are birds in general and poultry in particular relatively more susceptible to pulmonary infections/afflictions?
Article
  • Jul 2023
  • BIOL REV
In commercial poultry farming, respiratory diseases cause high morbidities and mortalities, begetting colossal economic losses. Without empirical evidence, early observations led to the supposition that birds in general, and poultry in particular, have weak innate and adaptive pulmonary defences and are therefore highly susceptible to injury by pathogens. Recent findings have, however, shown that birds possess notably efficient pulmonary defences that include: (i) a structurally complex three-tiered airway arrangement with aerodynamically intricate air-flow dynamics that provide efficient filtration of inhaled air; (ii) a specialised airway mucosal lining that comprises air-filtering (ciliated) cells and various resident phagocytic cells such as surface and tissue macrophages, dendritic cells and lymphocytes; (iii) an exceptionally efficient mucociliary escalator system that efficiently removes trapped foreign agents; (iv) phagocytotic atrial and infundibular epithelial cells; (v) phagocytically competent surface macrophages that destroy pathogens and injurious particulates; (vi) pulmonary intravascular macrophages that protect the lung from the vascular side; and (vii) proficiently phagocytic pulmonary extravasated erythrocytes. Additionally, the avian respiratory system rapidly translocates phagocytic cells onto the respiratory surface, ostensibly from the subepithelial space and the circulatory system: the mobilised cells complement the surface macrophages in destroying foreign agents. Further studies are needed to determine whether the posited weak defence of the avian respiratory system is a global avian feature or is exclusive to poultry. This review argues that any inadequacies of pulmonary defences in poultry may have derived from exacting genetic manipulation(s) for traits such as rapid weight gain from efficient conversion of food into meat and eggs and the harsh environmental conditions and severe husbandry operations in modern poultry farming. To reduce pulmonary diseases and their severity, greater effort must be directed at establishment of optimal poultry housing conditions and use of more humane husbandry practices.
View
Relationships Among Strain, Performance, and Environmental Temperature in Commercial Laying Hens1
Article
Full-text available
  • Mar 2003
SUMMARY The performance of 14.7 million commercial layers in 203 different flocks, located throughout the U.S. and representing 11 different White Leghorn strains was recorded and summarized. The records included weekly averages of hen day egg production, egg weight, feed and water consumption, dietary ME, BW, temperature, and mortality from 25 to 60 wk of age. These production characteristics were compared among age groups, strains, and strain groups in which each age group represented a 5-wk increment, and each strain group represented the light, medium, and heavy strains. The distribution of flock-weeks by age group and temperature revealed a similar curve for all age groups; however, in general the younger flocks were kept at lower temperatures. The overall average temperature was 24.3°C and ranged from 15 to 30°C for individual flock weeks. Weekly feed consumption varied from 50.9 to 145.7 g/d and was correlated with BW, which varied from 1.12 to 1.91 kg/bird. Weekly egg production varied from 60.7 to 97.7%, and egg weights varied from 49.8 to 68.1 g/egg. A 7% difference in BW and a 39% difference in BW gain were noted between the heavy and light strain groups. Mortality was highest for the medium weight strain group. Negative correlations were observed between temperature vs. ME intake, hen-day egg production, and BW gain. Similarly, egg weight was negatively correlated to hen-day egg production and BW gain. The data described herein gave an indication of normal performance of commercial laying hens in the U.S. for a 9-yr period, 1992 to 2000, and should prove useful in development and testing of deterministic simulation equations.
View
Combination of Fan Ventilation System and Spraying of Oil-Water Mixture on the Levels of Dust and Gases in Caged Layer Facilities in Eastern Turkey
Article
Full-text available
  • Jun 2005
Kocaman, B., Yaganoglu, A.V. and Yanar, M. 2005. Combination of fan ventilation system and spraying of oil-water mixture on the levels of dust and gases in caged layer facilities in Eastern Turkey. J. Appl. Anim. Res., 27: 109–111.To reduce harmful gases such as CO2, NH3 and H2S and dust in caged layer houses in Eastern Turkey, spraying of sunflower oil-water mixture and fan Uentilation were investigated. It is demonstrated that these treatments together may improve air of the caged layer houses.
View
Effect of Carbon Dioxide on Broiler Chicken Performance
Article
Full-text available
  • Dec 1980
Broiler chickens were exposed to 3,000, 6,000 and 12,000 ppm of CO2 for the 4-week brooding period, and their performance was compared to that of controls brooded where the CO2 level did not exceed 1,000 ppm. Exposure to 3,000 and 6,000 ppm did not significantly affect body weights at 4 or 7 weeks, but exposure to 12,000 ppm of CO2 depressed body weight at 4 weeks by about 60 g; the deficiency in weight persisted until 7 weeks of age. Feed conversions were not affected.
View
Unidirectional Air Flow Isolators A Review
Article
  • Jan 1974
The isolators described were developed for rearing and breeding specified pathogen-free fowls on a laboratory scale and for producing controlled environments for experimental purposes. The basic design has proved to be versatile and similar isolators have been constructed for housing other laboratory animals and for use on a commercial scale. They depend for their efficiency on the characteristics of the ventilation system rather than on complete enclosure of the environment and consequently are easier to use and allow higher stocking densities than conventional isolators. Filtered air is blown horizontally and uniformly through the isolator at a velocity which is sufficient to hold any infective particles in suspension and remove them in a few seconds. The risk of infection is reduced further by maintaining a positive pressure in the isolator. Chickens show a markedly accelerated growth rate in these isolators which is due largely to an improvement in the efficiency of food conversion and is associated with a reduction in immunoglobulin synthesis.
View
View
Evaluation of Ammonia and Infectious Bronchitis Vaccination Stress on Broiler Performance and Carcass Quality
Article
  • Jul 1974
Eighty broiler chicks were randomly assigned to each of 12 chambers in a controlled environment building. Anhydrous ammonia gas was introduced into the test chambers from 4–8 weeks of age so treatments consisted of 0, 25 and 50 parts per million (p.p.m.) of NH3. Chicks were vaccinated at 5 weeks of age with a commercial strain of infectious bronchitis dust vaccine. Eight week body weights and feed efficiencies of broilers exposed to ammonia were significantly reduced. At 6 and 8 weeks of age a severe airsacculitis condition was observed in the ammoniated broilers. During the eight week period airborne bacteria were significantly greater in the 25 and 50 p.p.m. NH3 chambers. Ammonia and infectious bronchitis vaccination stress did not affect meat flavor, tenderness or juiciness, but significantly increased condemnations and undergrade carcasses.
View
The influence of graded levels of atmospheric ammonia on chickens. II. Effects on the performance of laying hens
Article
  • Aug 1966
Studies have been carried out to ascertain the effects of ammonia on the performance of White Leghorn hens housed in various environments of defined temperature and humidity. At 18° C. and 67 per cent relative humidity, the use of atmospheres containing 105 p.p.m. of ammonia by volume, significantly reduced egg production after 10 weeks' exposure. No effects were observed on egg quality. However voluntary food intake was reduced in ammoniated atmospheres and live-weight gain was lower. No recovery in production occurred when the treated groups were maintained for a further 12 weeks in an atmosphere free of ammonia. When White Leghorn hens were housed at an environmental temperature of 28° C., body weight declined. The decrease in live-weight was greatest at the high ammonia concentration of 102 p.p.m., and was significant after only 1 week's exposure to ammonia. Food intake of the controls was approximately 25 per cent lower at 28° C. than at 18° C., whilst 100 p.p.m. of ammonia further reduced food intake by more than 10 per cent. In one experiment at 28° C., egg production was significantly reduced after 7 weeks' exposure to ammonia. In a subsequent trial, a high protein, vitamin and mineral diet prevented the onset of any deleterious effects of ammonia on egg production, even though food consumption fell to 75 g./bird/day at 290 C, 43 per cent relative humidity and 104 p.p.m. of ammonia. When a diet low in energy level was fed to hens subjected to high concentrations of ammonia, their voluntary food intake did not increase, and their production deteriorated rapidly.
View
Aerosol Transmission of Pasteurella multocida in Turkeys
Article
  • Oct 1980
In three incidents, uninoculated turkeys separated from Pasteurella multocida-inoculated turkeys died of fowl cholera; it was inferred that the pathogen was transmitted by aerosol through the circulating air. Uninoculated and inoculated turkeys were separated by a solid partition and wire netting, and were handled separately. Turkeys were inoculated with a highly virulent strain of P. multocida, which induced the pulmonary form of fowl cholera. In four of the five uninoculated turkeys that died, pneumonia was the principal lesion. In two of these turkeys, which were bled one day before death while still alert, the plasma corticosterone concentration had increased markedly.
View
Dust Levels and Control Methods in Poultry Houses
Article
  • Dec 2000
This article summarizes information from the papers and posters presented at the international symposium on "Dust Control in Animal Production Facilities", held in Aarhus (Denmark) on 30 May-2 June 1999. Dust concentrations in poultry houses vary from 0.02 to 81.33 mg/m3 for inhalable dust and from 0.01 to 6.5 mg/m3 for respirable dust. Houses with caged laying hens showed the lowest dust concentrations, i.e., less than 2 mg/m3, while the dust concentrations in the other housing systems, e.g., perchery and aviary systems, were often four to five times higher. Other factors affecting the dust concentrations are animal category, animal activity, bedding materials and season. The most important sources of dust seem to be the animals and their excrements. Further studies on the effects of housing systems on dust sources and their compounds are desired for development of a healthier working environment in poultry production facilities. Adjustment of the relative humidity (RH) of the air in a broiler house to 75% will have an effect on inhalable dust, but not on respirable dust. A slight immediate effect on the respirable dust was observed after fogging with pure water or water with rapeseed oil. In an aviary system, a 50 to 65% reduction of the inhalable dust concentration was found after spraying water with 10% of oil and pure water, respectively. To obtain a higher dust reducing efficiency, improvement of techniques for application of droplets onto dust sources will be desired.
View
SPSS for Windows, release 10
  • Spss
SPSS, 1994. SPSS for Windows, release 10.0, SPSS Inc., USA