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Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:36 am in reply to: Cost management
To calculate cost of production and determine profit margins in poultry or livestock farming:
1. Add all costs – include feed, chicks, vaccines, labor, utilities, housing, litter, and depreciation of equipment.
2. Divide total cost by output – e.g., per kg of meat or per dozen eggs.
3. Determine selling price – based on market rates.
4. Calculate profit margin –
 
 <math xmlns=”http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML” display=”block”><semantics><mrow><mtext>Profit Margin (%)</mtext><mo>=</mo><mfrac><mrow><mo stretchy=”false”>(</mo><mtext>Selling Price</mtext><mo>−</mo><mtext>Production Cost</mtext><mo stretchy=”false”>)</mo></mrow><mtext>Selling Price</mtext></mfrac><mo>×</mo><mn>100</mn></mrow><annotation encoding=”application/x-tex”>\text{Profit Margin (\%)} = \frac{(\text{Selling Price} – \text{Production Cost})}{\text{Selling Price}} \times 100</annotation></semantics></math>Profit Margin (%)=Selling Price(Selling Price−Production Cost)×100
Tracking these costs regularly helps identify where to cut expenses or improve efficiency.To calculate cost of production and determine profit margins in poultry or livestock farming:

Add all costs – include feed, chicks, vaccines, labor, utilities, housing, litter, and depreciation of equipment.

Divide total cost by output – e.g., per kg of meat or per dozen eggs.

Determine selling price – based on market rates.

Calculate profit margin –

Profit Margin (%)
=
(
Selling Price
−
Production Cost
)
Selling Price
×
100
Profit Margin (%)=
Selling Price
(Selling Price−Production Cost)

×100

Tracking these costs regularly helps identify where to cut expenses or improve efficiency.
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:35 am in reply to: meal limitations
Canola and rapeseed meals are good protein sources, but they have some limitations:
1. Glucosinolates – Can reduce feed intake and affect thyroid function if levels are high.
2. Fiber content – Higher than soybean meal, which can lower digestibility and energy value.
3. Palatability – Some birds may eat less due to bitter taste.
4. Variability – Nutrient content can vary depending on processing and seed variety.
Using low-glucosinolate (canola-type) meals and proper formulation helps minimize these issues.Canola and rapeseed meals are good protein sources, but they have some limitations:

Glucosinolates – Can reduce feed intake and affect thyroid function if levels are high.

Fiber content – Higher than soybean meal, which can lower digestibility and energy value.

Palatability – Some birds may eat less due to bitter taste.

Variability – Nutrient content can vary depending on processing and seed variety.

Using low-glucosinolate (canola-type) meals and proper formulation helps minimize these issues.
Muhammad Ahmad

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:34 am in reply to: Aquaculture

Selecting a suitable site is the single most important decision in fish pond construction, as it affects construction cost, water retention, and long-term production. The primary considerations revolve around Water, Soil, and Topography.

Here are the key factors for fish pond site selection:

1. Water Supply (Quantity and Quality)

This is the most critical factor, as fish require a continuous supply of suitable water.

| Consideration | Requirement | Why it Matters |

|—|—|—|

| Source Reliability | Must be available year-round to fill the pond and replace losses from evaporation and seepage. Groundwater (wells, springs) is often preferred for consistency. | If the source is seasonal (like a stream), the pond may dry up, resulting in total fish loss. |

| Flow Rate | Should be sufficient to fill the pond quickly (ideally within 1–2 weeks) and maintain the desired water level. | Slow filling delays production cycles and encourages unwanted weed growth. |

| Source Purity | Must be free from pollution (industrial effluents, toxic runoff, agricultural pesticides, or heavy domestic waste). | Pollutants directly poison the fish or make them unfit for consumption. |

| Basic Parameters | Should meet quality standards for the intended fish species (e.g., pH 6.5–8.5, dissolved oxygen > 5 \text{ mg/L}, low ammonia). | Water quality directly impacts fish health, growth, and survival. |

2. Soil Quality (Water Retention)

The soil composition determines the ability of the pond bottom and walls (dykes) to hold water.

* Best Soil Type: Clayey soils (e.g., clay, sandy clay, silty clay loam, or clay loam) are ideal because the fine particles compact well and are impermeable, minimizing seepage.

* Clay Content: The soil should ideally have at least 20\% \text{ to } 30\% clay content to ensure good water retention.

* Unsuitable Soils: Avoid highly sandy soils, gravel beds, or rocky/limestone areas, as water will leak rapidly. Also, avoid organic soils (like peat or swampy marsh) as they are unstable and unsuitable for dyke construction.

3. Topography (Land Shape and Slope)

The shape of the land affects the pond design, construction cost, and drainage.

* Slope: The ideal site should be level or gently sloping (0.5\% to 3\% slope). This is sufficient for gravity drainage without requiring extensive, costly earthwork.

* Gravity Flow: Ideally, the pond should be located slightly lower than the water source so it can be filled by gravity, avoiding the cost and complexity of continuous pumping.

* Drainage: The site must allow for total drainage by gravity for harvesting and maintenance purposes. A higher elevation area is suitable for this.

* Flood Risk: The site must be above the highest flood level and should not be prone to seasonal flooding, which can wash away the fish stock and damage the structure.

4. Accessibility and Economic Factors

* Accessibility: The site should be easily accessible by road for transporting construction materials, feed, supplies, and, most importantly, for taking the harvested fish to market.

* Security: Proximity to the farmer’s residence or a secured area is important to prevent poaching and vandalism.

* Labor and Utilities: Access to reliable electricity (for aerators or pumps) and a source of local labor can be important factors, especially for commercial operations.

* Market Proximity: Being reasonably close to the target market reduces transport costs and ensures the fish are delivered fresh.Selecting a suitable site is the single most important decision in fish pond construction, as it affects construction cost, water retention, and long-term production. The primary considerations revolve around Water, Soil, and Topography.
Here are the key factors for fish pond site selection:
1. Water Supply (Quantity and Quality)
This is the most critical factor, as fish require a continuous supply of suitable water.
| Consideration | Requirement | Why it Matters |
|—|—|—|
| Source Reliability | Must be available year-round to fill the pond and replace losses from evaporation and seepage. Groundwater (wells, springs) is often preferred for consistency. | If the source is seasonal (like a stream), the pond may dry up, resulting in total fish loss. |
| Flow Rate | Should be sufficient to fill the pond quickly (ideally within 1–2 weeks) and maintain the desired water level. | Slow filling delays production cycles and encourages unwanted weed growth. |
| Source Purity | Must be free from pollution (industrial effluents, toxic runoff, agricultural pesticides, or heavy domestic waste). | Pollutants directly poison the fish or make them unfit for consumption. |
| Basic Parameters | Should meet quality standards for the intended fish species (e.g., pH 6.5–8.5, dissolved oxygen > 5 \text{ mg/L}, low ammonia). | Water quality directly impacts fish health, growth, and survival. |
2. Soil Quality (Water Retention)
The soil composition determines the ability of the pond bottom and walls (dykes) to hold water.
* Best Soil Type: Clayey soils (e.g., clay, sandy clay, silty clay loam, or clay loam) are ideal because the fine particles compact well and are impermeable, minimizing seepage.
* Clay Content: The soil should ideally have at least 20\% \text{ to } 30\% clay content to ensure good water retention.
* Unsuitable Soils: Avoid highly sandy soils, gravel beds, or rocky/limestone areas, as water will leak rapidly. Also, avoid organic soils (like peat or swampy marsh) as they are unstable and unsuitable for dyke construction.
3. Topography (Land Shape and Slope)
The shape of the land affects the pond design, construction cost, and drainage.
* Slope: The ideal site should be level or gently sloping (0.5\% to 3\% slope). This is sufficient for gravity drainage without requiring extensive, costly earthwork.
* Gravity Flow: Ideally, the pond should be located slightly lower than the water source so it can be filled by gravity, avoiding the cost and complexity of continuous pumping.
* Drainage: The site must allow for total drainage by gravity for harvesting and maintenance purposes. A higher elevation area is suitable for this.
* Flood Risk: The site must be above the highest flood level and should not be prone to seasonal flooding, which can wash away the fish stock and damage the structure.
4. Accessibility and Economic Factors
* Accessibility: The site should be easily accessible by road for transporting construction materials, feed, supplies, and, most importantly, for taking the harvested fish to market.
* Security: Proximity to the farmer’s residence or a secured area is important to prevent poaching and vandalism.
* Labor and Utilities: Access to reliable electricity (for aerators or pumps) and a source of local labor can be important factors, especially for commercial operations.
* Market Proximity: Being reasonably close to the target market reduces transport costs and ensures the fish are delivered fresh.
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:32 am in reply to: Egg Freshness..

Loss of feed freshness usually happens due to oxidation of fats, vitamin degradation, and moisture absorption during storage. High temperature, humidity, and poor aeration speed up these reactions, leading to rancid smell, nutrient loss, and reduced palatability. Proper storage — cool, dry, and well-ventilated — is key to maintaining freshness.Loss of feed freshness usually happens due to oxidation of fats, vitamin degradation, and moisture absorption during storage. High temperature, humidity, and poor aeration speed up these reactions, leading to rancid smell, nutrient loss, and reduced palatability. Proper storage — cool, dry, and well-ventilated — is key to maintaining freshness.
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:30 am in reply to: Feed Efficiency Tips That Work

Switching to high-quality pellets with consistent size and minimal fines made a big difference — birds ate more efficiently, wasted less feed, and showed better FCR and uniform growth. Even small improvements in pellet quality or feeder management can noticeably boost performance.Switching to high-quality pellets with consistent size and minimal fines made a big difference — birds ate more efficiently, wasted less feed, and showed better FCR and uniform growth. Even small improvements in pellet quality or feeder management can noticeably boost performance.
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:23 am in reply to: moisture loss (shrinkage)

Moisture loss mainly reduces weight, not the nutritional concentration of dry matter. However, excessive drying or poor storage can cause nutrient degradation — especially loss of vitamins, fats (oxidation), and amino acids. So while nutrient percentages may appear higher on a dry-matter basis, overall nutrient quality and feed freshness can decline if moisture loss is uncontrolled.Moisture loss mainly reduces weight, not the nutritional concentration of dry matter. However, excessive drying or poor storage can cause nutrient degradation — especially loss of vitamins, fats (oxidation), and amino acids. So while nutrient percentages may appear higher on a dry-matter basis, overall nutrient quality and feed freshness can decline if moisture loss is uncontrolled.
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:20 am in reply to: litter treatment for coccidiosis
To control or kill Eimeria oocysts in litter, use chemical disinfectants and management practices that target coccidia:
1. Ammonia-based disinfectants – e.g., litter treatments releasing ammonia gas are effective against oocysts.
2. Phenolic compounds – some phenol-based disinfectants can reduce oocyst viability.
3. Drying and heat – removing wet spots, sun-drying, or heating litter (>60°C) helps destroy oocysts.
4. Litter acidifiers – products that lower pH can reduce oocyst survival.
5. Good rotation and rest – allow litter areas to dry completely between flocks.To control or kill Eimeria oocysts in litter, use chemical disinfectants and management practices that target coccidia:
 
 Ammonia-based disinfectants – e.g., litter treatments releasing ammonia gas are effective against oocysts.
 
 Phenolic compounds – some phenol-based disinfectants can reduce oocyst viability.
 
 Drying and heat – removing wet spots, sun-drying, or heating litter (>60°C) helps destroy oocysts.
 
 Litter acidifiers – products that lower pH can reduce oocyst survival.
 
 Good rotation and rest – allow litter areas to dry completely between flocks.
Muhammad Ahmad

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:20 am in reply to: litter treatment for coccidiosis

Killing Eimeria oocysts (the highly resistant, egg-like stage of the parasite that causes coccidiosis) in poultry litter is exceptionally difficult because they have a tough, double-layered wall that resists most common disinfectants.

The most effective approach is a combination of chemical application (disinfection) and environmental management.

1. Highly Effective Chemical Disinfectants (Coccidiocidal Agents)

The oocyst requires specialized, powerful chemical agents—most standard disinfectants like quaternary ammonium compounds or basic aldehydes are ineffective.

| Chemical Class | Common Agents/Method | How it Works | Key Consideration |

|—|—|—|—|

| Phenol-Based | Chlorocresol (synthetic phenol) | This is often cited as one of the most effective coccidiocidal disinfectants. It works by acting as a lipid solvent, penetrating and breaking through the oocyst’s tough protective wall. | Requires a specific formulation, often with a secondary active ingredient (like an acid or alcohol) to aid penetration. Must be used at high concentrations. |

| Ammonia | Ammonium Hydroxide or Gaseous Ammonia | The strong, alkaline nature of ammonia, particularly when produced by composting or applied as a gas, can destroy the oocysts. | This method is highly effective but must be applied in an empty house by trained personnel due to the extreme danger of ammonia gas to birds and humans. |

| Caustic Agents | Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda) | Highly alkaline compounds are effective at destroying the oocyst wall. | Highly corrosive and dangerous to handle. Only used for total house disinfection between flocks, never with birds present. |

| Acetic Acid | High-Concentration Acetic Acid (e.g., concentrated vinegar) | Some studies suggest very high concentrations of acetic acid can suppress the sporulation (making it infectious) of the oocysts. | Less common for large-scale house treatment, but useful for small-scale equipment cleaning. |

Important Note on Disinfection: All effective disinfectants must be used only after the house is completely empty of birds, litter is removed or treated, and all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned of organic matter. Organic matter (like droppings) drastically reduces the efficacy of almost all disinfectants.

2. Environmental and Management Techniques (Non-Chemical)

For litter that remains in the house (built-up litter), environmental control is the primary method to inactivate oocysts. The oocysts only become infectious when they sporulate, which requires specific conditions:

A. Litter Fermentation / Composting (Heat and Ammonia)

This is one of the most widely adopted and effective methods for treating litter between flocks.

* Windrowing: The litter is pushed into high piles (windrows) in the center of the house.

* Heat Generation: The natural microbial activity in the piles generates intense heat (up to 140^{\circ}\text{F} or 60^{\circ}\text{C} or more).

* Oocyst Destruction: The combination of high heat and the production of ammonia gas from the breakdown of nitrogen compounds in the droppings effectively kills or inactivates the oocysts and most other pathogens.

* Turning: Piles are turned multiple times over several days or weeks to ensure all litter is exposed to the high temperatures.

B. Moisture Control

The most critical factor for preventing coccidiosis in an active flock is keeping the litter dry.

* Oocysts only sporulate (become infectious) when the litter is warm and moist (around 20-30% moisture content).

* Good Ventilation removes moisture and ammonia.

* Proper Drinker Management (keeping drinkers at the right height and fixing leaks) prevents caked and wet litter around water sources.

C. Total Clean-Out

The most rigorous method, typically used after a severe disease outbreak, is to remove all existing litter from the house and follow with a thorough wash and a powerful chemical disinfection (as mentioned above) before applying new, fresh litter.Killing Eimeria oocysts (the highly resistant, egg-like stage of the parasite that causes coccidiosis) in poultry litter is exceptionally difficult because they have a tough, double-layered wall that resists most common disinfectants.
The most effective approach is a combination of chemical application (disinfection) and environmental management.
1. Highly Effective Chemical Disinfectants (Coccidiocidal Agents)
The oocyst requires specialized, powerful chemical agents—most standard disinfectants like quaternary ammonium compounds or basic aldehydes are ineffective.
| Chemical Class | Common Agents/Method | How it Works | Key Consideration |
|—|—|—|—|
| Phenol-Based | Chlorocresol (synthetic phenol) | This is often cited as one of the most effective coccidiocidal disinfectants. It works by acting as a lipid solvent, penetrating and breaking through the oocyst’s tough protective wall. | Requires a specific formulation, often with a secondary active ingredient (like an acid or alcohol) to aid penetration. Must be used at high concentrations. |
| Ammonia | Ammonium Hydroxide or Gaseous Ammonia | The strong, alkaline nature of ammonia, particularly when produced by composting or applied as a gas, can destroy the oocysts. | This method is highly effective but must be applied in an empty house by trained personnel due to the extreme danger of ammonia gas to birds and humans. |
| Caustic Agents | Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda) | Highly alkaline compounds are effective at destroying the oocyst wall. | Highly corrosive and dangerous to handle. Only used for total house disinfection between flocks, never with birds present. |
| Acetic Acid | High-Concentration Acetic Acid (e.g., concentrated vinegar) | Some studies suggest very high concentrations of acetic acid can suppress the sporulation (making it infectious) of the oocysts. | Less common for large-scale house treatment, but useful for small-scale equipment cleaning. |
Important Note on Disinfection: All effective disinfectants must be used only after the house is completely empty of birds, litter is removed or treated, and all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned of organic matter. Organic matter (like droppings) drastically reduces the efficacy of almost all disinfectants.
2. Environmental and Management Techniques (Non-Chemical)
For litter that remains in the house (built-up litter), environmental control is the primary method to inactivate oocysts. The oocysts only become infectious when they sporulate, which requires specific conditions:
A. Litter Fermentation / Composting (Heat and Ammonia)
This is one of the most widely adopted and effective methods for treating litter between flocks.
* Windrowing: The litter is pushed into high piles (windrows) in the center of the house.
* Heat Generation: The natural microbial activity in the piles generates intense heat (up to 140^{\circ}\text{F} or 60^{\circ}\text{C} or more).
* Oocyst Destruction: The combination of high heat and the production of ammonia gas from the breakdown of nitrogen compounds in the droppings effectively kills or inactivates the oocysts and most other pathogens.
* Turning: Piles are turned multiple times over several days or weeks to ensure all litter is exposed to the high temperatures.
B. Moisture Control
The most critical factor for preventing coccidiosis in an active flock is keeping the litter dry.
* Oocysts only sporulate (become infectious) when the litter is warm and moist (around 20-30% moisture content).
* Good Ventilation removes moisture and ammonia.
* Proper Drinker Management (keeping drinkers at the right height and fixing leaks) prevents caked and wet litter around water sources.
C. Total Clean-Out
The most rigorous method, typically used after a severe disease outbreak, is to remove all existing litter from the house and follow with a thorough wash and a powerful chemical disinfection (as mentioned above) before applying new, fresh litter.
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:19 am in reply to: chest size of broiler

To increase broiler chest (breast muscle) size, focus on high-quality protein and balanced amino acids — especially lysine, methionine, and threonine, which directly support muscle growth. Provide energy-rich diets with proper vitamin and mineral balance, and ensure feed form (pellet/crumbles) to enhance intake. Also, maintain good management, temperature, and health so nutrients go toward muscle development, not stress recovery.To increase broiler chest (breast muscle) size, focus on high-quality protein and balanced amino acids — especially lysine, methionine, and threonine, which directly support muscle growth. Provide energy-rich diets with proper vitamin and mineral balance, and ensure feed form (pellet/crumbles) to enhance intake. Also, maintain good management, temperature, and health so nutrients go toward muscle development, not stress recovery.
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:18 am in reply to: Poultry
After the first week, chicks can be sexed mainly by physical and behavioral traits:
1. Feather sexing – In some breeds, males have slower feather growth than females.
2. Comb and wattle size – Males often develop slightly larger, redder combs earlier.
3. Body shape – Males are usually a bit heavier and stand more upright.
4. Vent sexing – A trained expert can check the chick’s vent for male or female organs (still the most accurate method).After the first week, chicks can be sexed mainly by physical and behavioral traits:
 
 Feather sexing – In some breeds, males have slower feather growth than females.
 
 Comb and wattle size – Males often develop slightly larger, redder combs earlier.
 
 Body shape – Males are usually a bit heavier and stand more upright.
 
 Vent sexing – A trained expert can check the chick’s vent for male or female organs (still the most accurate method).
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:17 am in reply to: vaccination

Vaccination during the first 35 days is vital because it helps build early immunity against major diseases like ND, IB, IBD, and Marek’s, when chicks are most vulnerable. A strong early vaccination program ensures better survival, uniform growth, and long-term flock protection, reducing the need for antibiotics later.Vaccination during the first 35 days is vital because it helps build early immunity against major diseases like ND, IB, IBD, and Marek’s, when chicks are most vulnerable. A strong early vaccination program ensures better survival, uniform growth, and long-term flock protection, reducing the need for antibiotics later.
Muhammad Ahmad

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:17 am in reply to: vaccination

The first 35 days of a chicken’s life, especially for broilers (meat birds), are the most significant period for vaccination because it is the window to establish foundational active immunity against the most devastating, fast-acting diseases that can destroy a flock and cripple growth.

This early period is crucial due to three main factors:

1. Protecting the Vulnerable Immune System

The initial days of a chick’s life represent a critical period of vulnerability as its innate immune system is still developing.

* Waning Maternal Immunity: Chicks receive temporary protection, called maternal antibodies (MAs), from the hen via the egg yolk. These MAs are critical but fade within the first 1 to 3 weeks. Vaccination must be timed precisely to generate the chick’s active immunity before the MAs drop too low, which would create a dangerous “susceptible window” for infection.

* Immune System Targeting Diseases: Diseases like Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD or Gumboro) specifically target and damage the B-cells of the bursa of Fabricius in young chicks. If a chick is infected before active immunity is established, the damage to the bursa causes immunosuppression, making the bird unable to respond to later vaccines or fight off other common infections. Early vaccination prevents this irreversible damage.

2. Preventing Acute, High-Mortality Diseases

The diseases targeted in the first five weeks are those that cause high mortality or long-term growth defects.

| Disease | Typical Vaccination Time | Impact if Unvaccinated |

|—|—|—|

| Marek’s Disease (MD) | Day 1 (often in ovo or in the hatchery) | A highly contagious viral cancer causing paralysis, tumors, and death. Must be given on Day 1 to be effective. |

| Newcastle Disease (ND) | Days 5–7 and a booster around 14–21 days | A highly contagious respiratory and nervous system disease that causes severe symptoms and high mortality. |

| Infectious Bronchitis (IB) | Days 5–7 and often a booster | A respiratory disease that severely impacts breathing in broilers and can later cause poor egg quality/production in layers. |

| IBD (Gumboro) | Around 12–21 days (depending on MA level) | Causes immunosuppression, leading to death from secondary infections. |

3. Maximizing Performance and Profitability

For commercial poultry, vaccination in the first 35 days is an economic necessity directly tied to the final market weight.

* Short Lifespan: Broilers are raised for a very short period (typically 6–9 weeks). Any disease outbreak or severe vaccine reaction in the first half of their life can cause a significant growth setback (stunting) that they cannot recover from before slaughter.

* Feed Efficiency: A healthy, non-stressed, and protected bird converts feed into muscle mass much more efficiently. Preventing disease maximizes the bird’s genetic potential, ensuring maximum Body Weight (BW) gain and the best possible Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR).

* Uniformity: Early hatchery vaccination (Day 1) ensures uniform protection across the entire flock, which is crucial for uniform growth and efficient processing at the slaughterhouse.The first 35 days of a chicken’s life, especially for broilers (meat birds), are the most significant period for vaccination because it is the window to establish foundational active immunity against the most devastating, fast-acting diseases that can destroy a flock and cripple growth.
This early period is crucial due to three main factors:
1. Protecting the Vulnerable Immune System
The initial days of a chick’s life represent a critical period of vulnerability as its innate immune system is still developing.
* Waning Maternal Immunity: Chicks receive temporary protection, called maternal antibodies (MAs), from the hen via the egg yolk. These MAs are critical but fade within the first 1 to 3 weeks. Vaccination must be timed precisely to generate the chick’s active immunity before the MAs drop too low, which would create a dangerous “susceptible window” for infection.
* Immune System Targeting Diseases: Diseases like Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD or Gumboro) specifically target and damage the B-cells of the bursa of Fabricius in young chicks. If a chick is infected before active immunity is established, the damage to the bursa causes immunosuppression, making the bird unable to respond to later vaccines or fight off other common infections. Early vaccination prevents this irreversible damage.
2. Preventing Acute, High-Mortality Diseases
The diseases targeted in the first five weeks are those that cause high mortality or long-term growth defects.
| Disease | Typical Vaccination Time | Impact if Unvaccinated |
|—|—|—|
| Marek’s Disease (MD) | Day 1 (often in ovo or in the hatchery) | A highly contagious viral cancer causing paralysis, tumors, and death. Must be given on Day 1 to be effective. |
| Newcastle Disease (ND) | Days 5–7 and a booster around 14–21 days | A highly contagious respiratory and nervous system disease that causes severe symptoms and high mortality. |
| Infectious Bronchitis (IB) | Days 5–7 and often a booster | A respiratory disease that severely impacts breathing in broilers and can later cause poor egg quality/production in layers. |
| IBD (Gumboro) | Around 12–21 days (depending on MA level) | Causes immunosuppression, leading to death from secondary infections. |
3. Maximizing Performance and Profitability
For commercial poultry, vaccination in the first 35 days is an economic necessity directly tied to the final market weight.
* Short Lifespan: Broilers are raised for a very short period (typically 6–9 weeks). Any disease outbreak or severe vaccine reaction in the first half of their life can cause a significant growth setback (stunting) that they cannot recover from before slaughter.
* Feed Efficiency: A healthy, non-stressed, and protected bird converts feed into muscle mass much more efficiently. Preventing disease maximizes the bird’s genetic potential, ensuring maximum Body Weight (BW) gain and the best possible Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR).
* Uniformity: Early hatchery vaccination (Day 1) ensures uniform protection across the entire flock, which is crucial for uniform growth and efficient processing at the slaughterhouse.
Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member
October 16, 2025 at 9:16 am in reply to: Pre-grinding Vs post-grinding

Both systems have pros and cons, but generally:

<ul data-start=”51″ data-end=”465″>
Pre-grinding (grinding ingredients separately) gives better control of particle size and formula accuracy, especially for complex diets. However, it may use more energy and time due to multiple grinding steps.
Post-grinding (grinding after mixing) is more energy-efficient and simpler, but it can lead to uneven particle size and less precision in nutrient distribution.

In practice, pre-grinding is preferred for high-precision feeds, while post-grinding suits large-volume, less complex production.Both systems have pros and cons, but generally:

Pre-grinding (grinding ingredients separately) gives better control of particle size and formula accuracy, especially for complex diets. However, it may use more energy and time due to multiple grinding steps.

Post-grinding (grinding after mixing) is more energy-efficient and simpler, but it can lead to uneven particle size and less precision in nutrient distribution.

In practice, pre-grinding is preferred for high-precision feeds, while post-grinding suits large-volume, less complex production.

Mohamed Hamada Nasser

Member

October 16, 2025 at 9:15 am in reply to: water addition at the mixer level

Generally, adding 1–2% water at the mixer level is acceptable to improve pellet quality and conditioning efficiency, but the exact amount depends on feed formulation and raw material moisture. The final feed moisture should stay around 11–12.5% to avoid mould growth and maintain pellet durability. Always monitor mixer uniformity, conditioner temperature, and dryer settings to ensure consistency.Generally, adding 1–2% water at the mixer level is acceptable to improve pellet quality and conditioning efficiency, but the exact amount depends on feed formulation and raw material moisture. The final feed moisture should stay around 11–12.5% to avoid mould growth and maintain pellet durability. Always monitor mixer uniformity, conditioner temperature, and dryer settings to ensure consistency.

Muhammad Ahmad

Member

October 16, 2025 at 9:15 am in reply to: chest size of broiler

The size of the chicken chest (breast muscle) in broiler poultry is primarily increased by manipulating the amino acid (protein) content and balance of the feed, as muscle tissue is composed of protein. This strategy is critical because breast meat is the most valuable part of the carcass.

The key nutritional factors used to maximize breast meat yield are:

1. High-Density Essential Amino Acids (AAs)

The most direct way to increase breast muscle growth is by ensuring a high and optimal supply of essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein that the chicken cannot produce on its own.

* Lysine (Lys): This is considered the single most critical amino acid for muscle accretion (growth). Broiler feed formulations are often based on the ratio of other AAs to Lysine. Higher levels of digestible Lysine are directly correlated with increased breast meat yield.

* Methionine (Met) and Threonine (Thr): These are the second and third most limiting amino acids, respectively, and are essential for maximizing the efficiency of Lysine utilization and for overall protein synthesis.

* Total Sulfur Amino Acids (TSAA): The combination of Methionine and Cystine (which Met converts to) is crucial for growth and feathering, but also significantly impacts breast muscle development.

* Arginine and Leucine: These and other essential amino acids also play important roles, particularly Leucine, which is known to activate the mTOR pathway, a cellular mechanism that directly regulates muscle protein synthesis and growth.

The Ideal Protein Concept

Modern poultry nutrition uses the “Ideal Protein” concept, which means balancing the ratio of all essential amino acids to Lysine, rather than simply feeding a high crude protein (CP) diet. The requirements for maximizing breast meat yield (BMY) are higher than the requirements for simply maximizing body weight gain or feed efficiency.

2. Protein-to-Energy Ratio

While amino acids are the building blocks, the bird needs energy to power the growth process. The relationship between protein and energy must be balanced:

* Higher AA-to-Energy Ratio: Broilers that are genetically selected for rapid growth and high breast yield require a relatively higher ratio of digestible amino acids to metabolizable energy (\text{ME}) in the feed.

* If the energy content is too low relative to protein, the bird may burn the expensive protein for energy instead of using it for muscle growth.

* If the energy content is too high, the bird might deposit more abdominal fat instead of lean muscle mass.

3. Feed Format and Consistency

The physical form of the feed affects how much a broiler can eat, which in turn impacts muscle growth.

* Pelleted Feed: Feeding broilers a pellet or a crumb (broken pellets for young birds) rather than a mash generally leads to:

* Increased feed intake.

* Improved feed conversion ratio (FCR).

* Higher growth rate and, consequently, a higher breast meat yield. This is due to reduced time spent eating and less energy wasted in digestion.

4. Other Functional Ingredients and Timing

* Feeding Phases: The density of essential amino acids is typically highest in the starter and grower phases when the breast muscle has the highest allometric growth rate (growing faster than the rest of the body). Some programs also increase the density in the finisher phase to compensate for the continued rapid growth of the breast muscle.

* Micronutrients and Additives:

* Chelated Trace Minerals: These are more bioavailable and can improve overall health, allowing more nutrients to be directed toward muscle deposition instead of immune function.

* Antioxidants (like Vitamin E and Selenium): These can help mitigate muscle myopathies (such as “woody breast” or “white striping”) that sometimes occur in fast-growing birds, which negatively impact meat quality and yield.The size of the chicken chest (breast muscle) in broiler poultry is primarily increased by manipulating the amino acid (protein) content and balance of the feed, as muscle tissue is composed of protein. This strategy is critical because breast meat is the most valuable part of the carcass.
The key nutritional factors used to maximize breast meat yield are:
1. High-Density Essential Amino Acids (AAs)
The most direct way to increase breast muscle growth is by ensuring a high and optimal supply of essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein that the chicken cannot produce on its own.
* Lysine (Lys): This is considered the single most critical amino acid for muscle accretion (growth). Broiler feed formulations are often based on the ratio of other AAs to Lysine. Higher levels of digestible Lysine are directly correlated with increased breast meat yield.
* Methionine (Met) and Threonine (Thr): These are the second and third most limiting amino acids, respectively, and are essential for maximizing the efficiency of Lysine utilization and for overall protein synthesis.
* Total Sulfur Amino Acids (TSAA): The combination of Methionine and Cystine (which Met converts to) is crucial for growth and feathering, but also significantly impacts breast muscle development.
* Arginine and Leucine: These and other essential amino acids also play important roles, particularly Leucine, which is known to activate the mTOR pathway, a cellular mechanism that directly regulates muscle protein synthesis and growth.
The Ideal Protein Concept
Modern poultry nutrition uses the “Ideal Protein” concept, which means balancing the ratio of all essential amino acids to Lysine, rather than simply feeding a high crude protein (CP) diet. The requirements for maximizing breast meat yield (BMY) are higher than the requirements for simply maximizing body weight gain or feed efficiency.
2. Protein-to-Energy Ratio
While amino acids are the building blocks, the bird needs energy to power the growth process. The relationship between protein and energy must be balanced:
* Higher AA-to-Energy Ratio: Broilers that are genetically selected for rapid growth and high breast yield require a relatively higher ratio of digestible amino acids to metabolizable energy (\text{ME}) in the feed.
* If the energy content is too low relative to protein, the bird may burn the expensive protein for energy instead of using it for muscle growth.
* If the energy content is too high, the bird might deposit more abdominal fat instead of lean muscle mass.
3. Feed Format and Consistency
The physical form of the feed affects how much a broiler can eat, which in turn impacts muscle growth.
* Pelleted Feed: Feeding broilers a pellet or a crumb (broken pellets for young birds) rather than a mash generally leads to:
* Increased feed intake.
* Improved feed conversion ratio (FCR).
* Higher growth rate and, consequently, a higher breast meat yield. This is due to reduced time spent eating and less energy wasted in digestion.
4. Other Functional Ingredients and Timing
* Feeding Phases: The density of essential amino acids is typically highest in the starter and grower phases when the breast muscle has the highest allometric growth rate (growing faster than the rest of the body). Some programs also increase the density in the finisher phase to compensate for the continued rapid growth of the breast muscle.
* Micronutrients and Additives:
* Chelated Trace Minerals: These are more bioavailable and can improve overall health, allowing more nutrients to be directed toward muscle deposition instead of immune function.
* Antioxidants (like Vitamin E and Selenium): These can help mitigate muscle myopathies (such as “woody breast” or “white striping”) that sometimes occur in fast-growing birds, which negatively impact meat quality and yield.

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