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Breeders and Feeding
What are the critical nutritional parameters to consider in breeder feeding?
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5 Replies
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In breeder feeding, critical nutritional parameters include adequate protein and amino acid levels, sufficient energy, balanced minerals (especially calcium and phosphorus), and essential vitamins, all crucial for optimal egg production, hatchability, and chick quality.
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Mycoplasma Synoviae
Cause
Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) infection most frequently occurs as
subclinical upper respiratory tract infection inducing airsac lesions.
After MS becomes systemic it can induce acute to chronic infection
of synovial membranes of joints and tendons resulting in synovitis,
tendovaginitis or bursitis. Recently MS was isolated from laying flocks
with drop in egg production and/or misshapen eggs (so called “glass
window eggs”).
Transmission
Mycoplasma synoviae is spread horizontally via direct contact and
vertically from parent to progeny.
Species affected
Chickens and turkeys are the natural hosts for Mycoplasma synoviae.
Other species can be infected but do not show clinical problems.
Clinical signs
First recognized signs are pale comb, lameness, retarded growth and,
as the disease progresses, ruffled feathers, swelling of joints and breast
blisters.
Respiratory involvement is generally asymptomatic but is possible;
usually 90-100% of the birds will be infected.
Clinical synovitis varies around 5-15% in an infected flock. Mortality
is low around 1% (exceptional up to 10%). More recent strains induced
drop in egg production and/or misshapen eggs (so called “glass
window eggs”).
Lesions
In general no lesions are found in the respiratory tract.
At post mortem from the early stage of synovitis, a viscous creamy to
gray exudate involving synovial membranes of tendon sheaths, joints
and keel bursa can be found; other findings are liver and kidney swelling.
Diagnosis
Organism confirmatory diagnosis based on isolation and identification
of Mycoplasma synoviae can be done by culturing or PCR. Serological
monitoring can be done with serum plate agglutination (RPA), Elisa and
HI tests.
Treatment
Mycoplasma synoviae is susceptible to several antibiotics. Antibiotic
treatment will diminish clinical signs but not eliminate MS from a flock.
Control and prevention
Prevention by monitoring and vaccination has become a more effective
method of combating the disease especially in layers. Economic losses
in commercial layers can be reduced by proper use of MS vaccines.
Eradication programs
(first in breeder flocks), based
on stringent monitoring and
culling, are preferred in breeders
to prevent vertical transmission
and are only economically
possible when prevalence is low.
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In breeder feeding, it’s essential to focus on nutritional parameters that support both the health of the breeders and optimal reproduction. Some critical nutritional parameters include:
1. Energy: Adequate energy is crucial for breeders to maintain body condition and support reproductive performance. Energy is typically provided by fats and carbohydrates, and the balance between these is key.
2. Protein and Amino Acids: Protein supports the growth of body tissues and the development of eggs and sperm. It’s essential to ensure that breeders receive a proper balance of essential amino acids (like methionine and lysine), as these play a significant role in egg production and hatchability.
3. Vitamins and Minerals: Specific vitamins (A, D, E, and the B-group vitamins) and minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace minerals like zinc and selenium) are crucial for breeder health, egg production, and hatchability. Calcium is particularly important for shell formation in laying hens, while phosphorus is essential for energy metabolism.
4. Fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, are critical for reproductive health. They influence egg quality, hatchability, and the immune system of both the breeder and offspring.
5. Fiber: The right level of fiber helps regulate digestion and overall gut health. While breeders don’t require as much fiber as non-reproductive animals, adequate levels should be included to ensure proper digestion and gut motility.
6. Water: Hydration is often overlooked, but it’s essential for optimal digestion, metabolism, and reproductive function. Consistent access to clean, fresh water is a must.
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Most breeder diets contain between 16 and 18% protein.
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.The critical amino acids in breeder nutrition are methionine (TSAA), tryptophan, lysine and isoleucine. Methionine and tryptophan directly impact egg size and egg production. A corn/soy diet has excess lysine and isoleucine.
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