Member Lina Paola Pardo Quevedo
MemberForum Replies Created
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Cage free systems practiced in poultry production:
Deep litter system, Slatted floor system, Aviary system, free range rearing
Please refer these pictures for better clarity.
— Dr Malathi
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Right question asked at the right time.
In Indian weather and field conditions, most of the time we see more than one mycotoxin contaminating the feed ingredients or finished feeds.
Most commonly occurring mycotoxins in Indian conditions are
Most concerning – Aflatoxin, ochratoxin, T2 toxin, citrinin
Moderate concerning – DON, Zearalenone, fumonisin
hence, whatever mitigation methods we use, either binders or Mycotoxin degrading enzymes or any other method, it should be able to tackle multiple mycotoxins (broad spectrum).
Few binders and mycotoxin degrading enzymes have shown to be effective against more than one mycotoxin and use of these have both merits and demerits.
Cocktail of Enzymes which degrade mycotoxins ( laccase, peroxidase, dehydrogenases, carboxylesterase, etc) have shown to be effective against more than one mycotoxin, but these studies are not done in Indian conditions. This is a relatively new concept and many research studies are required to establish their efficacy and combinations at different levels of mycotoxin contamination.
Also, the efficacy of enzymes depends on the temperature and pH in the gut, storage conditions, processing, pelleting etc.
On the other hand, there are few broad spectrum binders (bentonite, montmorillonite, yeast cell wall extracts, MOS, YCWE+bentonite, YCWE+HACAS+bentonite, etc), which are effective during multiple mycotoxicosis, as proven in many studies.
Hence, in my opinion, until we get enough data on effectiveness of enzymes during multiple mycotoxicosis, its better to use Mycotoxin binders.
— Dr. Malathi
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thank you for sharing
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The form of active calcium that is better absorbed at the highest availability for poultry birds, particularly laying hens, is primarily focused on particle size and solubility, as this affects how efficiently it can be stored and used for eggshell production.
The most common and effective source of calcium for poultry is limestone, which is essentially calcium carbonate (CaCO_3). However, its effectiveness is highly dependent on its physical form.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes a calcium source highly available for poultry:
* Particle Size:
* Coarse Particles: For laying hens, coarse-particle limestone is superior to fine-particle or powdered limestone. The reason is that coarse particles (2-4 mm) are retained in the gizzard for a longer period. This provides a slow, steady release of calcium, particularly during the night when the hen is not eating but is actively forming an eggshell.
* Fine Particles: While fine-particle limestone is absorbed quickly, it can lead to a calcium “spike” in the blood shortly after consumption. This isn’t ideal because the hen’s body needs a continuous supply of calcium for eggshell formation, which takes place mostly at night. When the hen runs out of this readily available calcium, she may start drawing it from her bones, leading to a condition called osteoporosis.
* Solubility:
* Oyster Shell: Crushed oyster shell is another excellent and highly bioavailable calcium source for poultry. It has a similar coarse particle size to large-particle limestone, allowing for a slow and sustained release of calcium. The added benefit is that the oyster shell matrix also contains trace minerals.
* Combination of Particle Sizes:
* Many successful poultry nutrition programs utilize a combination of both fine and coarse particles. The fine particles provide an immediate source of calcium for daily metabolic needs, while the coarse particles provide the slow-release source essential for strong eggshells and maintaining bone health.
Key takeaway for poultry:
The best-absorbed and most available form of calcium isn’t just about the chemical composition (CaCO_3). It’s critically about the physical form and particle size. A mix of coarse and fine-particle limestone or oyster shell is considered the gold standard for providing a continuous supply of calcium, which is crucial for maximizing eggshell quality and preventing skeletal problems in laying hens.
In summary, for poultry, the highest bioavailability is achieved not by a different chemical form of calcium, but by providing calcium carbonate in a physical form that ensures a slow, sustained release, primarily through the use of coarse-particle limestone or oyster shell.Thank you for the clarification. When discussing calcium for poultry, the principles are similar but the context and specific needs are different, especially for laying hens.
The form of active calcium that is better absorbed at the highest availability for poultry birds, particularly laying hens, is primarily focused on particle size and solubility, as this affects how efficiently it can be stored and used for eggshell production.
The most common and effective source of calcium for poultry is limestone, which is essentially calcium carbonate (CaCO_3). However, its effectiveness is highly dependent on its physical form.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes a calcium source highly available for poultry:
* Particle Size:
* Coarse Particles: For laying hens, coarse-particle limestone is superior to fine-particle or powdered limestone. The reason is that coarse particles (2-4 mm) are retained in the gizzard for a longer period. This provides a slow, steady release of calcium, particularly during the night when the hen is not eating but is actively forming an eggshell.
* Fine Particles: While fine-particle limestone is absorbed quickly, it can lead to a calcium “spike” in the blood shortly after consumption. This isn’t ideal because the hen’s body needs a continuous supply of calcium for eggshell formation, which takes place mostly at night. When the hen runs out of this readily available calcium, she may start drawing it from her bones, leading to a condition called osteoporosis.
* Solubility:
* Oyster Shell: Crushed oyster shell is another excellent and highly bioavailable calcium source for poultry. It has a similar coarse particle size to large-particle limestone, allowing for a slow and sustained release of calcium. The added benefit is that the oyster shell matrix also contains trace minerals.
* Combination of Particle Sizes:
* Many successful poultry nutrition programs utilize a combination of both fine and coarse particles. The fine particles provide an immediate source of calcium for daily metabolic needs, while the coarse particles provide the slow-release source essential for strong eggshells and maintaining bone health.
Key takeaway for poultry:
The best-absorbed and most available form of calcium isn’t just about the chemical composition (CaCO_3). It’s critically about the physical form and particle size. A mix of coarse and fine-particle limestone or oyster shell is considered the gold standard for providing a continuous supply of calcium, which is crucial for maximizing eggshell quality and preventing skeletal problems in laying hens.
In summary, for poultry, the highest bioavailability is achieved not by a different chemical form of calcium, but by providing calcium carbonate in a physical form that ensures a slow, sustained release, primarily through the use of coarse-particle limestone or oyster shell. -
Recording overall feed consumption is vital for efficient and profitable farming. Accurate data allows you to optimize costs, maximize growth, and make informed management decisions.
Why is it important?
* Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR): A key metric that measures feed efficiency. FCR = total feed consumed / total weight gained. A lower FCR is better.
* Cost Management: Feed is a major operational expense. Tracking consumption prevents overfeeding, which wastes money and can harm the environment.
* Performance Monitoring: It helps you assess the effectiveness of different feeds and feeding strategies.
* Inventory Control: Accurate consumption data allows for better forecasting of feed needs, preventing shortages or excess stock.
How to Record Consumption:
* Manual System: For small-scale operations, use a simple logbook. Record the date, feed type, and weight of feed distributed daily.
* Electronic Spreadsheets: Programs like Excel or Google Sheets are great for organizing data and automatically calculating totals.
* Automated Systems: Larger farms can use technology like smart feeders and sensors that automatically track and record the amount of feed delivered.
Key Data to Record:
Beyond the amount of feed, it’s essential to record:
* Biomass and Growth: Regularly estimate the total weight of your animals to calculate FCR.
* Environmental Conditions: Note factors like water temperature, which significantly impact appetite and growth.
* Feed Batch Information: Record batch numbers for traceability and quality control.
By implementing a consistent system for recording this data, you can make smarter, data-driven decisions that improve the productivity and sustainability of your farm.Overall Feed Consumption in Farms: A Brief Guide
Recording overall feed consumption is vital for efficient and profitable farming. Accurate data allows you to optimize costs, maximize growth, and make informed management decisions.
Why is it important?
* Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR): A key metric that measures feed efficiency. FCR = total feed consumed / total weight gained. A lower FCR is better.
* Cost Management: Feed is a major operational expense. Tracking consumption prevents overfeeding, which wastes money and can harm the environment.
* Performance Monitoring: It helps you assess the effectiveness of different feeds and feeding strategies.
* Inventory Control: Accurate consumption data allows for better forecasting of feed needs, preventing shortages or excess stock.
How to Record Consumption:
* Manual System: For small-scale operations, use a simple logbook. Record the date, feed type, and weight of feed distributed daily.
* Electronic Spreadsheets: Programs like Excel or Google Sheets are great for organizing data and automatically calculating totals.
* Automated Systems: Larger farms can use technology like smart feeders and sensors that automatically track and record the amount of feed delivered.
Key Data to Record:
Beyond the amount of feed, it’s essential to record:
* Biomass and Growth: Regularly estimate the total weight of your animals to calculate FCR.
* Environmental Conditions: Note factors like water temperature, which significantly impact appetite and growth.
* Feed Batch Information: Record batch numbers for traceability and quality control.
By implementing a consistent system for recording this data, you can make smarter, data-driven decisions that improve the productivity and sustainability of your farm. -
Good information
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Yes, it is generally proper and ethical to consume eggs from birds that were recently vaccinated. Most poultry vaccines are safe and do not leave harmful residues in eggs. However, some vaccines—especially live or oil-based ones—may require a short egg withdrawal period (typically a few days), during which the eggs should not be consumed or sold. Following these guidelines ensures both safety and animal welfare. Vaccinating birds is also ethical, as it protects flock health and reduces the need for antibiotics.Here’s a slightly longer but still concise answer:
Yes, it is generally proper and ethical to consume eggs from birds that were recently vaccinated. Most poultry vaccines are safe and do not leave harmful residues in eggs. However, some vaccines—especially live or oil-based ones—may require a short egg withdrawal period (typically a few days), during which the eggs should not be consumed or sold. Following these guidelines ensures both safety and animal welfare. Vaccinating birds is also ethical, as it protects flock health and reduces the need for antibiotics.
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- Test and assess: Do semen analysis and hormone testing.
- Improve diet: Add antioxidants (vitamins C, E, zinc, selenium, CoQ10, L-carnitine).
- Optimize lifestyle: Avoid smoking, alcohol, heat, and stress; maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise moderately: Regular physical activity improves hormone balance.
- Treat underlying issues: Address infections, varicocele, or hormone imbalances.
- Consider supplements: Fertility-specific supplements can boost parameters.
- Use breeding management tools (for animals): Time mating/AI with peak fertility
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thanks for this wonderful exposure
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well noted
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Very important message
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Dear Learned Friends,
Thank you for the identified points.
Is a good progeny from a very good mother or father likely in a very good disease control not produce quantity semen?
Pls I think that the quality of semen, to a longer extent, also related to the parental quality
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Thanks, Muhammad Zeeshan for this powerful insight.
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Good question
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Informative
