Logomarca do periódico: Brazilian Journal of Poultry Science

Open-access Brazilian Journal of Poultry Science

Publication of: Fundação de Apoio à Ciência e Tecnologia Animal
Area: Ciências Agrárias
ISSN printed version: 1516-635X
ISSN online version: 1806-9061
Creative Common - by 4.0

Table of contents

Brazilian Journal of Poultry Science, Volume: 27, Issue: 4, Published: 2025

Brazilian Journal of Poultry Science, Volume: 27, Issue: 4, Published: 2025

Document list
Documents
Original Article
Effects of Dietary Coenzyme Q10 on Egg Quality, Yolk Coenzyme Q10 Content, and Antioxidant Capacity in Laying Hens Nam, GH Jang, IS

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, 100 mg CoQ10/kg diet) and its form on egg quality, transfer of CoQ10 into the yolk, and antioxidant indices in laying hens. A total of 36, 40-week-old Lohman Brown layers were randomly assigned to three groups and provided with either a basal diet (CON), a basal diet supplemented with powdered CoQ10 (PCQ), or a basal diet with emulsified CoQ10 (ECQ) for five weeks. Dietary supplementation with CoQ10 showed no significant effects on body weight and gain. Egg quality criteria, including egg weight, eggshell weight, shell color, albumen height, and Haugh unit were unaffected by the dietary CoQ10 supplement or its form. However, the ECQ group showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in yolk color compared to the CON and PCQ groups. The concentration of yolk CoQ10 in the ECQ group showed a significant increase (p<0.05) compared to that of the CON group. The total antioxidant power in the serum and liver of the ECQ group was significantly higher (p<0.05) than that of the CON group. In addition, the scavenging rate of 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl hydrate (DPPH) in the yolk increased markedly (p<0.05) in response to the dietary supplementation of emulsified CoQ10. Malondialdehyde (MDA) of the serum, liver, and egg yolk in the ECQ group was significantly lower (p<0.05) than in the CON group. In conclusion, the dietary emulsified CoQ10 supplement resulted in a significant increase in yolk color, CoQ10 content, and antioxidant parameters in layers.
Original Article
Cinnamon Bark Polyphenol Extract on Abdominal Adipose Tissue Dynamics in Growing Broilers Tayam, S Erdoğan, S

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT This study investigates the impact of cinnamon bark polyphenols (CBP) on adipogenesis in broiler chickens across developmental stages. A total of 288 one-day-old male broilers were fed for 42 days with a basal diet or diets supplemented with 300 mg/kg (CBP300) and 600 mg/kg (CBP600) of CBP extract. CBP supplementation significantly reduced body weight gain and feed intake compared to the control group (p<0.05). This reduction indicates that CBP regulates energy metabolism, thereby enhancing metabolic efficiency and consequently preventing excessive fat accumulation. Abdominal fat proportion increased with age, and CBP notably influenced tissue weight. The addition of CBP reduced adipocyte sizes compared to the control group. Serum triglycerides decreased, whereas insulin and leptin levels rose significantly (p<0.05). Moreover, the elevated expression of PPARγ and LPL genes in adipose tissue highlights their involvement in adipogenesis and lipid metabolism regulation. This upregulation is beneficial, as it enhances lipid metabolism efficiency, contributing to the reduction in abdominal fat accumulation observed in CBP-supplemented groups. These data suggest that CBP plays a relevant role in balancing lipogenesis and lipolysis.
Original Article
Machine Learning-Based Decision Trees to Predict Egg Production Performance in Laying Hens under Heat Stress Conditions Cordeiro, AF Nääs, IA Garcia, RG Valentim, JK

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Increases in demand for egg production lead to improved egg production efficiency. Age, nutrition, and ambient temperature are among the factors influencing the performance of laying hens. Poor housing conditions can impair the well-being and performance of laying hens. This study aims to develop machine learning-based decision tree models to estimate the effects of weather variables and hen age on egg production and hen-day egg production under hot weather conditions via a data mining technique. Data from laying hens (n=48,958; 24-57 weeks old) housed in cages on a commercial farm were examined. Egg production parameters and regional weather data were analyzed. The data were processed via open-source Weka software, and the J48 classification algorithm was applied. Among the evaluated flocks, 34% presented a mortality rate within the acceptable value suggested by the genetic strain manual; and 41% of egg production was within the recommended range. We developed a decision tree model for classifying hen-day egg production with 91% accuracy, and an egg production decision tree model with 74% accuracy. Age was the most prevalent factor for both the egg production and hen-day egg production models, followed by environmental temperature and air speed. The decision tree models not only predicted egg production performance with high accuracy but also provided actionable guidelines for farm management. Specific rules identified production risks in flocks older than 36 weeks under warm and low-ventilation conditions, enabling targeted interventions such as enhanced cooling or ventilation. These insights demonstrate the tool’s applicability for optimizing on-farm decision-making and improving both productivity and animal welfare.
Original Article
Optimizing Culture Conditions for Bacillus subtilis Strains from Indigenous Chicken Feces as Antibiotic Replacements in Poultry Farming Hoa, NX Vinh, ND Hai, PV

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT The extensive use of antibiotics in poultry farming has contributed to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which poses serious risks to both animal and human health. As an alternative, probiotics such as Bacillus subtilis have shown potential in suppressing pathogenic bacteria and enhancing gut health, making them promising replacements for antibiotics in poultry production. This study focused on isolating and characterizing B. subtilis strains from indigenous chicken feces, specifically targeting strains with strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium, which are common pathogens causing diarrhea in poultry. Key parameters for optimizing spore production of selected B. subtilis strain were examined, including carbon source, nitrogen source, mineral salts, inoculum age, inoculum size, medium volume, and initial pH. From an initial pool of 168 Bacillus spp. strains isolated from the feces of free-range indigenous chickens, B. subtilis BA07 was selected. The optimal culture medium for spore production was identified as 20 g/L glucose, 30 g/L soybean meal, and 1 g/L K2HPO4. Ideal fermentation conditions included a temperature of 37 °C, 12 hours of incubation, an initial pH of 7.0, an inoculum size of 2%, and a medium volume of 20 mL in a 250 mL flask. Under these optimized conditions, the spore yield of B. subtilis BA07 increased by 10.28 times compared to the initial medium, with a spore formation rate exceeding 90%. This study provides a basis for the large-scale production of B. subtilis BA07 biopreparations, reducing antibiotic dependence in poultry farming.
Original Article
Immunoregulatory Effects of Yolkin on Cell Proliferation, Cytokine Production and Cell Signaling Zimecki, M Artym, J Kochanowska, I Kocięba, M Zaczyńska, E Zambrowicz, A Bobak, Ł

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Yolkin, an egg protein, is postulated to promote development of the immune system in embryos. The effects of yolkin on mitogen-induced mouse lymphocyte proliferation, cytokine production by mouse splenocytes, tumor cell line growth, as well as cell signaling in mouse splenocytes and mouse macrophage RAW 264.7 cells were investigated. Concanavalin A (Con A)-induced thymocyte proliferation was regulated depending on the mitogen concentration. The viability of splenocytes was enhanced in normal but inhibited in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated cells. Yolkin inhibited the growth of mouse lymphocytic leukemia L-1210 cells, and exhibited an additive suppressive effect with cisplatin. Yolkin induced the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF α), interferon gamma (IFN γ), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and IL-10, although the latter only at a high concentration. LPS-induced TNF α, IFN γ and IL-6 were inhibited, but stimulated with regard to IL-10. The changes in expression of signaling molecules in splenocytes and cell lines indicated elicitation of activation and differentiation. Yolkin elicited significant levels of expression and production of cyclooxygenases COX-1 and COX-2 in splenocytes and cell lines. LPS-induced cyclooxygenase expression and production were regulated depending on the concentration of yolkin. The results contribute to explaining the mechanism of yolkin action and facilitate the interpretation of in vivo studies on yolkin.
Original Article
Evaluation of the Effects of the Addition of Acacia Gum to the Diet on Productive Performance, Duodenal Viscosity, and Gut Health Indices of Broilers over 35 Days Al-Baadani, HH Alhotan, RA Azzam, MM Aboragah, AA Alharthi, AS Alhidary, IA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Acacia gum is a potent prebiotic, which is fermented by the microbiota and increases beneficial bacteria and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). This experiment aimed to determine the impact of acacia gum on broiler performance, intestinal viscosity, quantitative microbiota, and immune function in broilers. A total of 504 male broilers (43.91±0.03 g, 0 day of age) were randomly divided into six acacia gum groups (A=0, B=125, C=250, D=500, E=750, and F=1000 mg/kg basal diet), with 14 cages each (6 broilers/cage). Performance was measured for 35 days. A total of 14 broilers per group were randomly selected for slaughter to collect samples for analysis of targeted tests at 35 days of age. The results showed that acacia gum improved the performance indicators of broilers (p<0.05). The viscosity of duodenal contents was higher for acacia gum levels from 500 to 1000 mg/kg (p<0.05). Total SCFA, pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-12; TNF-α; INF-γ), and mucosal immune factors (MUC-2 and sIg A) increased with acacia gum supplementation (p<0.05). IL-10 was lower with 250 to 1000 mg/kg of acacia gum (p<0.05). Furthermore, acacia gum increased the beneficial microbiota (Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterial spp., and Bacteroides spp.), while Clostridium perfringens. was reduced. The results suggest that adding acacia gum to the diet, especially at a level of 1000 mg/kg, can positively influence growth performance, improve gut health, and enhance immune function in broilers.
Original Article
Effects of Chick Quality and Feed Oil Source (Soybean and Coconut) on Growth Performance and Carcass Parameters of Broilers Sevgi, T Durmuş, Ö Tufan, M Kutlu, HR

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT The present study aimed to determine whether replacing soybean oil with coconut oil in the feed affects the growth performance and carcass characteristics of broilers of different qualities. After hatching, chicks were separated by sex and divided into groups sorted by quality. A 2 × 2 factorial design was used, with chick quality (low and high) and feed oils (soybean and coconut) as the main effects, forming four treatment groups. A total of 800 chicks were used, with five replicates per group and 40 chicks per replicate. The initial live weights of these chicks were determined to be 44.01 g, 43.44 g, 44.73 g and 44.60 g for the low quality + soybean oil, low quality + coconut oil, high quality + soybean oil, and high quality + coconut oil treatment groups, respectively. This study showed that high-quality birds had significantly higher total feed consumption (p<0.05), but body weight gain and feed conversion rate were similar (p>0.05). Mortality was significantly higher in low-quality chicks, especially in the last three weeks (p<0.05). Low-quality female chicks had the highest abdominal fat amount and percentage (p<0.05). Birds fed coconut oil had a comparatively better feed conversion rate and higher body weight gain (p>0.05), and coconut oil had no significant effect on mortality or carcass quality (p>0.05). In conclusion, high-quality chicks outperformed low-quality ones, and coconut oil improved feed conversion without affecting mortality or carcass traits.
Original Article
Chestnut Bur Tannin Extracts Alleviate Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory Response and Liver Damage Induced by Eimeria tenella in Broiler Chickens Zhao, N Chang, L Wang, L Li, H Li, C Li, S

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT The current study documented the effects of chestnut bur tannin extracts (CTE) on oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and liver damage in Eimeria tenella-infected broilers. Chestnut burs as the byproducts of chestnut production are rich in tannins that are proven to be biologically active in multiple ways. A total of 105 Lifeng chickens were categorized into 5 groups: CON group (uninfected, untreated), ET group (E. tenella-infected, untreated), DIC group (ET group + 1 mg/L diclazuril), CTE-5 group (ET group + 5 mg/L CTE), and CTE-10 group (ET group + 10 mg/L CTE). The study indicated that the 5mg/L CTE supplementation in drinking water upregulated the activities of glutathione peroxidase and total superoxide dismutase, along with the downregulation of malondialdehyde in the liver of E. tenella-infected chickens. Moreover, inflammatory parameters (interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interferon-gamma, and interleukin-2) restored toward normal level compared to ET group. Liver damage induced by E. tenella could be restored, and no obvious pathological damage was observed by 5 mg/L CTE supplementation. In conclusion, CTE at a dose of 5 mg/L can ameliorate E. tenella-induced oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and liver damage, providing a new reference for coccidiosis control.
Original Article
Monochromatic Lighting and Laying Hens: A Proof-of-Concept for Optical Flow in Assessing Movement Patterns and Laying Site Preference Fernandes, AM Sartori, DL Moura, DJ Barros, JSG Salgado, DD Nääs, IA Pereira, DF

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT This proof-of-concept study investigated the potential impact of monochromatic lighting on laying hen movement and nest site preference, while acknowledging significant limitations, including the absence of experimental replication and uncontrolled temperature variations. Three groups of 20 hens were housed for 90 days in separate reduced-scale sheds, each illuminated exclusively with either red (580-800 nm), blue (420-500 nm), or green (480-600 nm) monochromatic LED lighting. Flock movement was quantified using optical flow analysis, while nest site preference (“nest” vs. “floor”) was recorded daily alongside thermal conditions classified as either “comfort” (THI ≤ 76.5) or “heat stress” (THI > 76.5). Preliminary observations suggested light-dependent behavioral differences. Hens under red light tended to move less compared to those under blue or green light, with optical flow metrics indicating substantially higher activity under blue light. Under heat stress conditions, floor-laying tended to be more frequent in the red-light group, whereas no floor eggs were recorded under green light during the same periods. These findings, while not conclusive, provide initial evidence that light wavelength may influence hen behavior and laying patterns. Importantly, this study demonstrates the feasibility of using optical flow analysis as a non-invasive tool for monitoring flock activity under various lighting conditions. Given the study’s exploratory design, limited replication, and uncontrolled environmental factors, the results should be interpreted as hypothesis-generating rather than definitive. Future research with larger sample sizes, true replication, and controlled thermal environments is needed to validate and expand upon these initial insights. The findings indicate the feasibility of employing optical flow analysis as a quantitative and non-invasive technique to assess flock dynamics. This confirmation is a critical precursor to larger-scale experimental validations of our preliminary behavioral hypotheses under controlled conditions.
Original Article
Calcium and Available Phosphorus Requirements of Japanese Quails in the Starter and Grower Phases Stanquevis, CE Perine, TP Zancanela, VT Grieser, DO Finco, EM Oliveira, TMM Oliveira, AA Barbosa, MAP Marcato, SM

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT This study aimed to estimate the nutritional requirements for calcium (Ca) and available phosphorus (Pd) for Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) during the growth phases, as well as to evaluate the residual effect of the rearing phase during laying. An entirely randomized design was used in a factorial scheme with 4 levels of Ca (0.57; 0.81; 1.05; and 1.29%) × 4 levels of Pd (0.21; 0.32; 0.43; and 0.54%), totaling 16 treatments with 3 repetitions, with 38 and 35 quails per experimental unit in the rearing (n=1824) and growing (n=1680) phases, respectively. The data were analyzed using polynomial regression for the levels of Ca and Pd to estimate the best-fit model, and the nutritional requirements were determined through the application of overlapping contour plots. Considering the estimates obtained for the performance variables (p<0.05), the levels of 0.92% Ca and 0.37% Pd were estimated for the rearing phase (1 to 14 days), and 0.94% Ca and 0.39% Pd for the growing phase (15 to 42 days). A third experiment was conducted using the same design (n=576), whereby birds received conventional feed to evaluate the residual effect; the best results reinforce the levels estimated during the growth of the birds.
Original Article
Incorporation of an Aquatic Fern (Azolla pinnata) as Alternative Feed in Coturnix japonica Broiler Diets: Impact on Growth Performance and Meat Quality Mahmoudi, S Mahmoudi, N Ruiz-Capillas, C Cullere, M Benamirouche, K Ali, I Hamouda Hamouda Singh, Y Robrini, I El Merahba, R

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Alternative protein sources to support quail meat production without relying on crops essential for human consumption are needed. This experiment was conducted to identify the impact of a partial substitution of soybean meal with Azolla pinnata in quail diet on the growth performance and meat quality of the birds. One day-old quail chicks (n=300) were raised on litter for 21 days, receiving a starter-grower diet. At day 22, n=180 quails were randomly selected and equally divided into four experimental groups receiving different finisher diets: a control diet (C), a diet with 2.5% dried Azolla (A1), a diet with 5% dried Azolla (A2), and the C diet + 10% fresh Azolla (A3). Growth performances were recorded. At day 37, quails were slaughtered and carcass traits were determined. Then, the physicochemical characteristics, lipid oxidative stability, and sensory characteristics of the meat were analyzed. No differences (p>0.05) were observed in feed intake or weight gain among groups. Instead, the A3 group showed a higher feed conversion ratio compared to the control and the other treatments (p<0.05). The inclusion of Azolla in quail diets did not significantly affect carcass traits or meat sensory attributes (p>0.05). However, incorporating both fresh and dried Azolla positively influenced meat physicochemical and nutritional composition, as well as its oxidative stability. Hence, fresh and dried Azolla can be used as an alternative feed ingredient in quail diets without negatively affecting either bird growth performance or the proximate composition, lipid oxidation, and sensory attributes of the meat.
Original Article
Growth Curve Modeling and Morphometric Weight Prediction in Xianghuang Chickens Chen, K Wu, C Luo, ZJ Wen, Y Ma, YY

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT This study optimized feeding and breeding strategies for a local chicken breed - Xianghuang (XH) chickens - through growth modeling and weight prediction. Body weight and morphometric traits (body slope length, keel length, shank length, shank circumference, and chest angle) were measured for 600 chickens. Growth curves were fitted using Logistic, Gompertz, and Bertalanffy models, while weight prediction used multivariate stepwise linear regression (MSLR) and feedforward neural network (FNN). The Gompertz model demonstrated superior accuracy (R²>0.997) and identified three inflection points, delineating four distinct growth phases: early (0-2 weeks), rapid (3-8 weeks), late rapid (9-15 weeks), and plateau (16 weeks to market age). Among morphometric traits, body slope length, keel length, and shank length showed strong correlations with weight (r>0.85). Both MSLR and FNN models achieved high predictive performance (R²≈0.78, MAE≈124 g), substantially outperforming univariate regression. The accurate growth curve assessment completed through body weight analysis, combined with the morphometric prediction models, provides a valuable reference for non-contact weight monitoring. This integrated approach offers practical tools to enhance the efficiency and management of XH chicken production. Future research should incorporate computer vision for automated measurement in intensive farming.
Original Article
Native vs. Exotic Chickens: A Comparative Study on Leukocyte Profiles and Serum Biochemical Characteristics in Bangladesh Haque, MI Rahman, MM Mustari, A Miah, MA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT This study was conducted to assess and compare leukocyte and biochemical parameters in Deshi (local), Sonali crossbred, and broiler chickens. 90 chickens were included in the experiment, with 30 each from the commercial broiler, Deshi, and Sonali (RIR cock × Fayoumi hen) groups. Blood samples were collected to measure total leukocyte counts (TLC) and differential leukocyte counts (DLC). The serum biochemical parameters assessed were triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), serum total protein, glucose, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), uric acid, and creatinine. Deshi chickens exhibited significantly higher TLC, characterized by elevated heterophil counts and lower lymphocyte counts (p<0.05). Both Deshi and Sonali chickens displayed a higher heterophil-to-lymphocyte (H/L) ratio than broilers. Broilers showed the highest serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL-c levels, while Deshi chickens had the lowest. Deshi and Sonali chickens also had significantly higher serum total protein and albumin levels, with stable glucose concentrations. Liver function showed no significant differences among breeds. Additionally, Deshi and Sonali chickens demonstrated better kidney health. In conclusion, Deshi and Sonali chickens demonstrated a more favourable leukocyte and lipid profile, as well as better kidney health compared to broilers, highlighting their potential for healthy and productive poultry farming.
Original Article
Effect of Supplementation of Organic Selenium on Physiological and Production Parameters of Ghagus hens during the Early Laying Period Nidamanuri, AL Mahapatra, RK Murugesan, S

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Trace mineral organic selenium is known to increase egg production significantly in exotic breeds. The present study was conducted with the Ghagus native hen breed to observe the effect of organic-selenium-enriched yeast on body weight, plasma hormones, and expression of genes that influence egg production. The control (C) group was offered a corn and soybean-based basal feed without organic selenium supplementation. The other two treatment groups (T1 and T2) were offered 0.2 and 0.4 ppm of organic selenium, respectively. The results indicated that, in T1, plasma levels of ghrelin and melatonin increased (p<0.05), while progesterone levels decreased significantly (p<0.05); furthermore, the expression of melatonin, and ghrelin hormone receptors in jejunum and magnum tissues also increased (p<0.001). When compared to C and T2, the fold change expression of all amino acid transporters increased (p<0.001) in jejunum tissue, whereas in magnum tissue, the expression of only three transporters (CAT, LAT2, and LAT4) increased (p<0.001) in T1. Treatment of chickens with 0.2 ppm also increased egg production by 6±1%, and egg weight by 3± 0.5g. The study indicated that there is potential for increases in egg production in Ghagus hens with the supplementation of organic selenium during the early laying period.
Original Article
A 51-Week Egg Production Assessment with White Leghorn Hens Fed on a 400 kcal AMEn/kg Range (2,850 to 2,550) Horn, RM Vieira, SL Menezes, RGD Maria, DDB

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Energy is a key determinant of feed intake regulation, nutrient utilization, and egg production in laying hens, but the long-term effects of gradual reductions in dietary metabolizable energy remain poorly understood. This study evaluated the impacts of graded decreases in apparent metabolizable energy corrected for nitrogen (AMEn; 2,850, 2,750, 2,650, and 2,550 kcal/kg) on performance and egg quality of Bovans White hens from 25 to 76 weeks of age. Ninety-six hens were allocated to a completely randomized design with four treatments and 12 replicates of two birds each. Data were analyzed using SAS 9.4 (p<0.05). Progressive AMEn reductions had significant effects on performance, with linear decreases in body weight, egg weight, egg mass, and daily energy intake, accompanied by compensatory increases in feed intake. Egg production and feed conversion ratio showed quadratic responses, with optimal values estimated at 2,733 and 2,842 kcal/kg, respectively. Lower AMEn diets also reduced yolk, albumen, and shell weights, although eggshell thickness increased. Overall, hens on the lowest AMEn diet mobilized body reserves to maintain egg output, leading to body weight loss and reduced laying persistency. These findings demonstrate that dietary AMEn from 2,733-2,750 kcal/kg supports optimal production and egg quality, while further reductions compromise long-term performance.
Original Article
Semen Characteristics of Mexican Creole Roosters in Winter and Spring Sosa-Montes, E Borges-Filho, MQ Ordaz-Contreras, R González-Cerón, F Zárate-Contreras, D Becerril-Pérez, C Ortega, LT Rodríguez Fuente, JI Alejos-De la Pro-Martínez, A

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of season (winter and spring) on live weight, body condition, spermatozoa percentages, mass motility, ejaculation time, semen volume, and sperm cells concentration of Mexican Creole roosters. Sixteen 59-week-old Creole roosters were used, and their semen was collected weekly for 9 weeks in winter and spring using the dorso-abdominal massage technique. The roosters were individually kept under a constant photo period (16 hours light: 8 hours dark). The average live weight was 10.6% higher (p<0.05) in spring (3.03 kg) than in winter (2.74 kg). In both winter and spring (53.23 and 64.96%, respectively), category 1 of body condition occurred (p<0.05) more frequently than the others (0, 1 and 2). Category 5 of mass motility frequency (the best of all) occurred more (p<0.05) in spring (50.71%) than in winter (31.08%). Additionally, live weight increased with age (r=0.93, p<0.05) and was positively correlated with mass motility (r=0.80, p<0.05) and percentage of abnormal spermatozoa (r=0.80, p<0.05). There was no effect of season on the percentages of live (winter 71.77%, spring 71.75%), dead (winter 28.42%, spring 28.27%), and abnormal (winter 1.00%, spring 1.00%) spermatozoa. From winter to spring, semen volume increased (p<0.05) from 0.26 to 0.37 cm3, while ejaculation time decreased (p<0.05) from 10 to 6s. Mexican Creole roosters showed higher live weight, body condition, semen volume and abnormal spermatozoa in spring (when they were older and faster to ejaculate) than in winter. Therefore, it is advisable to breed this kind of animal in spring.
Original Article
Enhancing Native Chicken Sperm Cryopreservation Efficiency via Pellet Method Optimization Kostaman, T Azizah, N Kusumaningrum, DA Gunawan, MA Tribudi, YA Pamungkas, FA Adiati, U Sholikah, N Hafid, A Muttaqin, Z Matitaputty, PR Pratiwi, N Herliatika, A Koswara, E Arrazy, AF Sari, APZNL Miraya, N Sartika, T

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Cryopreservation of chicken sperm remains challenging due to reduced post-thaw semen quality and artificial insemination (AI) success. This study aimed to optimize dilution rate, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentration, and equilibration time to preserve the quality of Kampung Unggul Badan Litbang (KUB) chicken semen. Semen from ten KUB roosters was collected twice weekly via abdominal massage, and diluted to 1 × 109 or 1.5 × 109 cells/mL. Two DMSO concentrations (6% and 9%) and two equilibration durations (1 min and 30 min at 4 °C) were tested. Post-thaw sperm motility differed significantly (p<0.05) across equilibration times and DMSO concentrations. The combination of 1×109 cells/mL dilution, 6% DMSO, and 1-minute equilibration yielded optimal motility, viability, and recovery rates. Fertility and hatchability of frozen semen were comparable to fresh semen (p>0.05). These findings support the development of improved cryopreservation protocols for KUB chicken semen and may offer practical value for poultry breeding programs in tropical regions.
Original Article
Effects of Adding Encapsulated Sodium Butyrate and Arginine to Diets of Broiler Chickens Submitted to a Thermal Stress Model Buzim, R Hayashi, JE Melo, LPS Severiano, JR Falkowski, AL Peppi, PF Fernandes, JIM

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT The experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of including encapsulated sodium butyrate and arginine in broiler diets on growth performance, bone quality, skin resistance and elasticity, and intestinal mucosa morphometry in broilers aged 1 to 35 days, with or without exposure to a thermal stress model. A total of 768 male broilers were distributed in a completely randomized design in a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement: with or without arginine (113% standardized ileal digestibility (SID) arginine:lysine ratio, and 130% SID arginine:lysine ratio), with or without encapsulated sodium butyrate (0 or 1 kg/ton), and with or without a thermal stress model. The control group and those receiving sodium butyrate and arginine supplementation showed better results from days 28 to 35 for feed conversion, live weight, and weight gain. In terms of morphometry, the challenged birds exhibited greater crypt depth and reduced villus height and width. Arginine supplementation increased bone strength at 35 days of age, and improved feed conversion from days 1 to 35. The combination of encapsulated sodium butyrate and arginine positively affected performance during the final week of the experiment even under challenging conditions, resulting in an increase of approximately 11.79% in weight gain, and a 5.88% reduction in the feed conversion ratio.
Review Article
Trait Preferences for Indigenous Chickens in Sub-Saharan Africa: A PRISMA-Guided Systematic Review Makgobatlou, MG Mkwanazi, MV Mwale, M Chimonyo, M

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT The objective of this review was to assess the perceived traits of economic importance for indigenous chickens among smallholder farmers, consumers and marketers. The review followed the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” guidelines to search for relevant literature. The search encompassed Google Search, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, online libraries, ResearchGate, and Semantic Scholar to ensure a thorough coverage of relevant literature. 102 articles were obtained from the primary research and, after removing duplicates and screening, 42 articles were included in the final review. Indigenous chickens play a crucial role in rural livelihoods by providing households with a readily available source of food, income, and cultural value. They contribute significantly to food security through the production of eggs and meat, often in low-input systems suited to resource-limited environments. The average egg production per hen per clutch ranges between 11.52 and 16.3. The criteria used for selection of breeding hens are egg production, adaptability, maternal behavior, body weight, plumage color, comb type, and pedigree performance. Body weight, comb type and plumage color are the most common traits used when selecting cocks. These traits should be considered when designing breeding strategies and genetic improvement schemes tailored for smallholder farmers for indigenous chickens, as they align with increased productivity.
Case Report
Coryza in Ducks: A case study Tangkonda, E Hastuti, COI Suwito, W Andriani, A Ariyanti, T Kusumaningtyas, E Martindah, E

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Although Coryza in ducks is rarely reported, it can lead to significant economic losses. Therefore, this case study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a combination therapy involving two sulfa antibiotics and vitamin C in treating Coryza in ducks. This case involves twenty-two 10-month-old ducks from a flock, each with an average body weight of 0.89 kg, exhibiting clinical signs of facial swelling and mucous nasal discharge.Tracheal swab samples were collected for microbial isolation. In addition, blood and feces examinations were conducted to assess hematological and helminth infections. Microbial analysis confirmed presence of Avibacterium paragallinarum (A. paragallinarum). Hematological examination revealed anemia accompanied by heterophilia, and feces analysis identified the presence of Capillaria spp. worm eggs. Anthelmintics were administered the day before antibiotics. A combination of Sulfadiazine, Trimethoprim, and vitamin C was provided through drinking water for five days. These findings underscore the critical role of proper anthelmintic administration, antibiotic therapy, and vitamin C supplementation in effectively managing Coryza in ducks.
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