Adjustment of Metabolizable Energy Concentration in Diets for High-Laying Hens in the Subhumid Tropics

Authors: Arcos-González S , Rojas-Avendaño L and Arcos-García JL*

DOI: 10.23880/izab-16000655

Volume 8, Issue 3

Abstract

Egg production in hens in the subhumid tropics is low due to heat stress; therefore, the energy concentration of the diet must be adjusted to meet this need. The objective of this study was to evaluate different metabolizable energy concentrations in diets for hens. Eighty-four 20-week-old females with an initial weight of 1,595.3 ± 9.9 g were used. Different metabolizable energy concentrations (kcal/kg of feed) were evaluated: (ME2617, ME3300, ME3470, and ME3500). Hen and egg production variables were measured using a completely randomized experimental design with weight as a covariate and a Tukey test. The laying percentage and feed conversion were similar (p > 0.05). Feed and amino acid consumption were higher (p < 0.05) in the ME2617 feed compared to the ME3500 feed. Average egg weight and width were greater (p < 0.05) in diets containing ME2617, ME3300, and ME3470 compared to ME2617 (49.5 g and 40.5 mm). It is concluded that a higher concentration of metabolizable energy in the diet of hens in the subhumid tropics improves egg characteristics, decreases feed intake and decreases heat stres.

Keywords: Productivity; Production; Consumption; Poultry; Layers

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