IMPROVING NUTRITION AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR REARING AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF HIGH AND ULTRA HIGH YIELDING TYPE BROILER BREEDER

• Sponsoring Institution: National Institute of Food and Agriculture
• Project Status: COMPLETE
• Funding Source: HATCH
• Reporting Frequency: Annual
• Accession No.: 0201861
• Project Start Date: Oct 1, 2010
• Project End Date: Sep 30, 2015
• Program Code: [(N/A)]- (N/A)

Recipient Organization
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS
(N/A)
FAYETTEVILLE,AR 72703

Performing Department
Poultry Sciences

Non Technical Summary
A major limiting factor in the continuing development and growth of the poultry industry is the production of adequate hatching eggs and quality broiler chicks necessary to supply the industry. Research is needed to evaluate feedstuffs specifically for breeders to help with determining nutrient availability and retention and gain a better understanding of mechanisms of nutrient partitioning into breeder skeletal development and egg formation.

Animal Health Component

(N/A)

Research Effort Categories

Basic

(N/A)

Applied

(N/A)

Developmental

(N/A)

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
301	3220	1060	10%
302	3220	1010	30%
305	3220	1010	25%
306	3220	1010	10%
307	3220	1060	25%

Knowledge Area
302 - Nutrient Utilization in Animals; 305 - Animal Physiological Processes; 307 - Animal Management Systems; 306 - Environmental Stress in Animals; 301 - Reproductive Performance of Animals;

Subject Of Investigation
3220 - Meat-type chicken, live animal;

Field Of Science
1060 - Biology (whole systems); 1010 - Nutrition and metabolism;

Keywords

chickens

broiler breeders

reproductive performance

feed efficiency

hatching egg production

metabolizable energy

amino acids

phosphorus

calcium

nutrient partitioning

growth curves

nutrient requirements

protein turnover

metabolic enzymes

stable isotopes

feed evaluation

Goals / Objectives
Determine the quantity of nutrients and the partitioning of nutrients for weight gain, maintenance, and egg production for both broiler breeder pullets and breeding adults. Determine the impact of genetics, nutrition, and breeder age on efficiency and mechanism of incorporating energy and protein from diet and tissue into hatching eggs. Determine the optimum nutrient intake and management conditions during the rearing period to obtain maximum fertile hatching eggs during the breeding period. Evaluate the digestibility and utilization of nutrients from feed ingredients with adult broiler breeders.

Project Methods
Amino acid and energy requirements will be determined for maintenance, body weight gain, egg production, and fertility with individual breeders. Efficiency of utilization of nutrients will be determined with whole body and egg composition analysis. The partitioning of nutrients into various physiological components will be determined with stable isotope incorporation into breeder feed. Protein turnover studies of breeder pullets and hens will be utilized to understand the dynamics of feed and tissue mobilization for egg production. The development of management and nutrition programs for optimum reproductive performance will be determined by producing breeder pullets and males with different growth curves and body composition during the rearing period and measuring key metabolic and reproductive hormones, enzymes, transport proteins, expanding to floor pen studies for full development, evaluating the overall reproductive performance in production of hatching eggs and feed efficiency. Determine nutrient digestibility and retention for feeds used for breeders, using individual bird feeding studies.

Progress 10/01/10 to 09/30/15

Outputs
Target Audience: Nothing Reported Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Five hundred and sixty Cobb-Vantress broiler breeders were used to determine the maintenance requirement of dietary Arg, His, Ile, Leu, Lys, Met, Phe, Thr, and Val in 10 21-d assays using the comparative slaughter technique. Fifty sexually immature broiler breeder pullets per assay were given crystalline amino acid diets containing graded levels of Arg, His, Ile, Leu, Lys, Met, Phe, Thr, or Val, respectively, representing 0, 10, 20, 30, 40% of their suggested requirement level (NRC, 1994) with all other amino acids maintained at 40% of their suggested requirement level. Sixty hens were slaughtered prior to the beginning of the study to assess initial body composition at 3 weight groups. Linear regression lines (protein accretion vs. amino acid intake) were determined and the maintenance requirements were calculated based on zero protein accretion. The maintenance requirements expressed on a metabolic weight basis were determined to be 174, 94, 52, 81, 60, 126, 133, and 155 mg/kg0.75/d for Arg, Ile, Leu, Lys, Met, Phe, Thr, and Val, respectively. Additionally, the maintenance requirements, expressed on metabolic protein weight basis, were determined to be 651, 329, 172, 295, 223, 523, 478, and 546 mg/kgCP/d for Arg, Ile, Leu, Lys, Met, Phe, Thr, and Val, respectively. The requirement for His could not be established as the results obtained were outside of assay range. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Nothing Reported What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Although, the exact amino acid profile of the endogenous losses of the breeder hen is unknown, the losses are likely greater as compared with the broiler chick and the rooster: resulting in the greater maintenance requirements observed. Increased protein degradation at the onset of sexual maturity and differing whole-body amino acid composition contributes to the overall amino acid requirement of the hen, and likely explains the equal or higher maintenance requirements of the broiler breeder hen when compared with the young chick or the mature rooster.

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Sakomura, N.K., R.D. Ekmay, S.J. Mei and C.N. Coon. 2015. Lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, arginine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, and threonine maintenance requirements of broiler breeders. Poult. Sci. 94:2715=2721. Karen Vignale, Elizabeth S Greene, Justina V Caldas, Judith A England, Nirun Boonsinchai, Phiphob Sodsee, Erik D Pollock, Sami Dridi, and Craig N Coon. 2015. 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol Enhances Male Broiler Breast Meat Yield through the mTOR Pathway. J. Nutr. vol. 145 no. 5 855-863. Vignale K., J.V. Caldas, J. England, N. Boonsinchai, P. Sodsee, E.D. Pollock and C.N. Coon. 2015. The effect of four different feeding programs from rearing period to sexual maturity on protein turnover in broiler breeder parent stock. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl. 1): T139 (abstr.) Vignale K., J.V. Caldas, J. England, N. Boonsinchai, A. Magnuson, E.D. Pollock, S. Dridi, C. M. Owens and C.N Coon. 2015. Understanding white striping using protein turnover. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl. 1):M90 (abstr.) Caldas J.V., N. Boonsinchai, A. Magnuson, J. Wang, J.A. England, and C.N. Coon (2015). Indirect calorimetry to study the dynamics of nutrient utilization in broiler breeders. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl. 1): 29 (abstr.) Caldas J.V., N. Boonsinchai, A. Magnuson, J.Wang, J.A. England, and C.N. Coon (2015). Evaluation of metabolizable and net energy in broilers fed exogenous enzymes. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl 1): 258 (abstr.) Caldas J.V., N. Boonsinchai, E. Holt, J. Wang, J.A. England, and C.N. Coon (2015). Energetic efficiency and body composition of broilers fed diets with exogenous enzymes during starter, grower and finisher. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl. 1): M127 (abstr.) Caldas J.V., J. Wang, K. Vignale, N. Boonsinchai, A. Magnuson, M. Putsakum, J.A. England, and C.N. Coon (2015). Effects of �-mannanase on nutrient utilization in young broilers fed diets containing variable levels of �-mannan. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl. 1): T175 (abstr.) Boonsinchai , N., J.V. Caldas, P. Sodsee, K. Vignale, M. Putsakum , E.J. Holt, A. Magnuson, J. Wang; J.A. England, and C.N. Coon. 2015. Effect of breeder age on yolk fatty acid composition and yolk absorption during embryonic development. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl 1): M75 (abstr.) Boonsinchai, N., J.V. Caldas, A. Magnuson, J. Wang, J.A. England, and C.N. Coon. 2015. Effect of palmitic acid supplementation on hatchability, reproductive performance, and progeny growth. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl. 1): 15 (abstr.) Tijare, V.V., F. L. Yang, C. Z. Alvarado, C. Coon, and C. M. Owens. 2015. Meat quality of broiler breast fillets with white striping and woody breast muscle myopathies. Poult. Sci (E. Suppl.1): M36 (abstr.) Tijare. V.V., F. L. Yang, V.A. Kuttappan, C. Coon and C. M. Owens. 2015. White striping and woody breast impacts on broiler breast meat quality from broilers processed at 6 and 9 weeks of age . Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl.1): 117 (abstr.) Kuttappan, V.A., J. Caldas, F.L. Yang, V. Tijare, B. Hargis, C.N. Coon, J. Escobar, M. Vazquez-Anon and C.M. Owens. 2015. White striping and woody breast: Effect on raw broiler breast quality. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl.1): 521P (abstr.) Caldas, J., Phiphob Sodsee, Karen Vignale, Nirun Boonsinchai, Monticha Putsakum, Ethan Holt, Judith England, Craig Coon. 2015. Relationship of bone homeostasis markers and genetic line to eggshell quality. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl. 1): P331 (abstr.) Andrew Magnuson, Nirun Boonsinchai, Justina Caldas, Karen Vignale, Judy England, Craig Coon. 2015. Evaluation of Tartrate Resistant Acid Phosphatase & Bone Alkaline Phosphatase as blood markers for breeder hen egg production and quality. Poult. Sci. (E. Suppl. 1): P315 (abstr.)

Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14

Outputs
Target Audience: Nothing Reported Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? A study was conducted to determine the effects of dietary energy and protein intake on the partitioning of lysine in broiler breeder hens. One hundred twenty-six broiler breeders were randomly assigned to 1 of 6 dietary treatments in a 2 (390, 450 kcal/d) × 3 (22, 24, 26 g of CP/d) fashion. Thirty-six hens were administered a daily oral dose of 15 mg of 15N-Lys for a period of 2 wk or until first egg. After the 2-wk enrichment period, no isotopes were given for 2 d. After 2 d, a daily oral dose of 15 mg of 2D4-Lys was administered until the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th egg (saved) after the initial 2D4-Lys was given, at which point pectoralis muscle was sampled. Weeks 25, 29, and 45 were assessed. Isotopic enrichment of pectoralis muscle, egg yolk, and albumen was determined via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The 15N-Lys was intended to represent endogenous lysine, whereas the 2D4-Lys was intended to represent dietary lysine. Greater than 78% of all labeled lysine (15N and 2D4-Lys) was found in breast muscle. Endogenous muscle was the main source of lysine for yolk formation at wk 25 and 45. Diet was the main source of lysine for albumen formation at wk 25 and 29. A consistent decrease in the 15N-Lys in breast muscle from the 2nd to the 3rd egg was observed, while also seeing an increase in the 15N-Lys in the egg from the 3rd to the 4th egg. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Nothing Reported What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? No difference in the partitioning of lysine for broiler breeders was determinedfor dietaryenergy or protein intake at levels typical for the current poultry industry. Broiler breeder age and rate of productionappear to be the main drivers of lysine partitioning in the broiler breeder hen.

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Schlumbohm, M.J., R. Kriseldi, J.A.England and C.N. Coon, 2014. Safety of improved Milbond-TX mycotoxin binder when fed to broiler breeders above recommended levels. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 13 (10):597-601. Ekmay, R.D., C. Salas, J. England, S. Cerrate and C.N. Coon, 2014. Lysine partitioning in broiler breeders is not affected by energy or protein intake when fed at current industry levels. Poult. Sci. 93:1-8 Vignale, K., J.V. Caldas, J. England, N. Boonsinchai, P. Sodsee, E.D. Pollock and C.N. Coon, 2014. The effect of four different feeding programs during the rearing period on protein turnover in parent stock pullets. Poult. Sci. 93:(E-Suppl. 1)p262. Vignale, Karen, Justina Caldas, Judith England, Nirun Boonsinchai, Phiphob Sodsee, Erik Pollock, and Craig Coon, 2014. The effect of sexual maturity and egg production on protein turnover in broiler breeder purelines. Poult. Sci. 93: (E-Suppl. 1)p230. Sodsee, Phiphob, Karen Vignale, Justina Caldas, Nirun Boonsinchai, Monticha Putsakum, Judith England and Craig Coon, 2014. Body composition, egg production, and shell quality of eggs from four breeder genetic lines fed diets varying in calcium and non-phytate phosphorus content. Poult. Sci. 93:(E-Suppl. 1)p231. Sodsee, Phiphob, Karen Vignale, Justina Caldas, Nirun Boonsinchai, Monticha Putsakum, Judith England and Craig Coon, 2014. The effect of breeder genetic line, calcium and non-phytate phosphorus levels on biomarkers related to bone homeostasis and shell quality. Poult. Sci. 93:(E-Suppl. 1)p201. Vignale, K., E.S. Green, J.V. Caldas, J. England, N. Boonsinchai, P. Sodsee, E.D. Pollock, S. Dridi, and C. N. Coon, 2014. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 enhances muscle development in broilers via activation of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)pathway. Poult. Sci. 93:(E-Suppl. 1)p12. Caldas, Justina, Arslan Sabir, Monticha Putsakum, Karen Vignale, Nirun Boonsinchai, Judith England and Craig Coon, 2014. The effect of exogenous protease associated with carbohydrases on nutrient digestibility during coccidia challenge in broilers. Poult. Sci. 93:(E-Suppl. 1)p261. Boonsinchai, N., J. England, K.Vignale, J.V. Caldas, M. Putsakham, P. Sodsee, A. Magnuson and C.N. Coon, 2014. Effect of various feeding programs during production period for broiler breeder hens on reproductive performance. Poult. Sci. 93:(E-Suppl. 1)p22. Caldas, J.V., K. Vignale, N. Boonsinchai, M. Putsakum, A. Magnuson, J. A. England and C. N. Coon, 2014. Energetic efficiency and body composition of broilers fed diets with exogenous enzymes. Poult. Sci 93:(E-Suppl. 1)p15-16. Vignale, K.,J.V. Caldas, J. England, N. Boonsinchai, P. Sodsee, E.D. Pollock and C. N. Coon,2014. The effect of four different feeding programs from rearing period to sexual maturity on protein turnover in broiler breeder parent stock. Poult. Sci. 93:(E-Suppl. 1)p83. Vignale, K., J. Caldas, J. England, N. Boonsinchai, P. Sodsee, E. Pollock, E. Greene, S. Dridi, and C. Coon, 2014. The effect of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 on broiler muscular protein synthesis. Poult. Sci. 93: (E-Suppl. 1)p198. Vignale, K., E.S. Greene, J.V. Caldas, J. England, N. Boonsinchai, P. Sodsee, E.D. Pollock, S. Dridi and C.N. Coon, 2014. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 enhances muscle development in broiler via activation of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Pages 1-12 in Proceedings of the Arkansas Nutrition Conference. Embassy Suites, Rogers, AR. September

Progress 01/01/13 to 09/30/13

Outputs
Target Audience: Nothing Reported Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Two trials were conducted to determine the amino acid and protein requirements of broiler breeders at peak production. In trial 1, 32-wk-old Cobb 500 broiler breeders with similar BW were selected to determine the digestible amino acid requirement for daily product output (g of egg mass + g of BW gain/ b/d) and feed conversion (g of feed/g of product) for Met, Phe, Arg, Ile, Lys, and CP in a 42-d production study. In trial 2, 30-wk-old Cobb 500 broiler breeders were selected to determine the digestible requirement for Met, Lys, Ile, Arg, Cys, Val, Trp, and Thr in a 70-d production study. Breeders were given a corn-soy basal diet plus crystalline amino acids with 8 graded levels of amino acids (10 birds per level), representing 40 to 130% of the highest suggested requirements reported in the literature. All other amino acids were maintained at 100% of their suggested requirement level. All breeders were inseminated weekly and fertility was determined. A third trial consisted of 41-wk-old colostomized hens randomly assigned to 1 of 2 diets differing only in the amount of Ile. Urine was collected after a 6-wk feeding period. The average digestible requirements per breeder per day for both product and feed/product ratio from trials 1 and 2 for Met, Cys, TSAA, Phe, Phe + Tyr, Trp, Arg, Ile, Lys, Val, Thr, and CP were 424, 477, 901, 689, 997, 252, 1,026, 830, 916, 799, 613 mg/d, and 20.0 g/d, respectively. The ideal profile for digestible Met, Cys, TSAA, Phe, Phe + Tyr, Trp, Arg, Ile, Lys, Val, and Thr was 46, 52, 98, 76, 108, 28, 112.0, 91, 100.0, 87, and 67%, respectively. A significant decrease in fertility was noted with increasing levels of Ile and Lys. Urine pH was significantly more alkaline in hens fed the higher level of Ile. It is suggested that adequate dietary Lys and Ile should be provided for maximum hatching egg production but an excess may affect fertility. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Nothing Reported What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The overall average requirement (and ideal profile) for digestible amino acids for both optimal product and feed conversion for Met, Cys, TSAA, Phe, Phe + Tyr, Trp, Arg, Ile, Lys, Val, Thr, and CP requirements for both product and feed/product ratio from trials 1 and 2 were determined to be 424 mg/d (46), 477 mg/d (52), 901 mg/d (98), 689 mg/d (76), 997 mg/d (108), 252 mg/d (28), 1,026 mg/d (112), 830 mg/d (91), 916 mg/d (100), 799 mg/d (87), 613 mg/d (67), and 20.0 g/d, respectively. Taking into consideration the negative impact that daily Lys and Ile intake were shown to have on fertility, nutritionists and production managers should be concerned about the fundamental role of these 2 amino acids beyond their essential requirement for egg mass and BW.

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Ekmay , R. D., M. De Beer , S. J. Mei , M. Manangi , and C. N. Coon. 2013. Amino acid requirements of broiler breeders at peak production for egg mass, body weight, and fertility. Poult. Sci. 92 : 992�1006. Salas, C., R. Ekmay, J. England, S. Cerrate and C.N. Coon. 2013. The TMEn, proximate analysis, amino acid content and amino acid digestibility of glandless and commercial cottonseed meal for broilers. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 12: 212-216. Ekmay, R.D., C. Salas , J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2013. The effects of age, energy and protein intake on protein turnover and the expression of proteolysis-related genes in the broiler breeder hen. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. Part B 164: 38�43. Cerrate, S., K. Vignale, R. Ekmay, J. England, and C. Coon. 2013. Effect of an Enzyme Complex and Dietary Nutrients on Endogenous Losses of Amino Acids in Chicks. Pages 239-240 in Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition in Sustainable Animal Production. The 4th International Symposium on Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition. EAAP publication no. 134. Edited by J. Oltjen, E. Kebreab, and H. Lapierre. Sacramento, California. September 9-12. Cerrate, S., R. Ekmay, J. England, and C. Coon. 2013. Evaluation of Energy Systems in Corn and Barley Based diets and an Enzyme Complex in Broiler Chicks. Pages 199-200 in Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition in Sustainable Animal Production. The 4th International Symposium on Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition. EAAP publication no. 134. Edited by J. Oltjen, E. Kebreab, and H. Lapierre. Sacramento, California. September 9-12. Ekmay, R.D., K. Vignale, C. Salas, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon, 2013. Stage of egg production regulates protein turnover and lysine partitioning for broiler breeders. Pages 305-306 in Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition in Sustainable Animal Production. The 4th International Symposium on Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition. EAAP publication no. 134. Edited by J. Oltjen, E. Kebreab, and H. Lapierre. Sacramento, California. September 9-12. Salas, C., Ekmay, R., England, J., Cerrate, S. and C. N. Coon. 2013. Lipid utilization for egg formation in broiler breeders. Pages 307-308 in Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition in Sustainable Animal Production. The 4th International Symposium on Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition. EAAP publication no. 134. Edited by J. Oltjen, E. Kebreab, and H. Lapierre. Sacramento, California. September 9-12. Cerrate, S., K. Vignale, R. Ekmay, J. England, and C. Coon. 2013. Effect of a commercial enzyme and dietary nutrients on apparent digestible and endogenous losses of threonine, cysteine, methionine, lysine, leucine and protein in broiler chicks. Poult. Sci. 92: E-Suppl. 1. P226. Vignale, K., J. Caldas, S. Cerrate, J. England, P. Sodsee, E. Pollock, R. Ekmay and C. Coon. 2013. The effect of sexual maturity on protein turnover in laying hens. Poult. Sci. 92: E-Suppl. 1. P254. Caldas, J., K. Vignale, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. Coon. 2013. The use of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry to determine body composition of feed restricted broilers. Poult. Sci. 92: E-Suppl. 1. P256. Vignale, K., J.V. Caldas, S. Cerrate, J. England, R.D. Ekmay, N. Boonsinchai, P. Sodsee, E.D. Pollock and C.N. Coon. 2013. The effect of sexual maturity on protein turnover in laying hens during sexual maturity transition and throughput production. Poult. Sci. 92: E-Suppl. 1. P139. Vignale, K., J.V. Caldas, J. England, N. Boonsinchai, P. Sodsee, E.D. Pollock and C.N. Coon. 2013. The effect of HyD on broiler breast meat yield. Poult. Sci. 92: E-Suppl. 1. P41-42. Caldas, J.V., K. Vignale, J.A. England, S.B. Cerrate and C.N. Coon. 2013. Validation of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry to determine body composition of feed restricted broilers. Poult. Sci. 92: E-Suppl. 1. P85.

Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: A 10 wk feeding experiment was conducted to develop a model for predicting the ME requirement for broiler breeder hens housed in different environmental temperatures. Three groups of 50 Cobb 500 broiler breeder hens were individually housed in breeder cages located in environmentally controlled rooms set at 15.5, 23, and 30C. Each breeder was given an intramuscular injection of Tamoxifen (TAM) (5 mg/kg BW) in corn oil at days 1 and 4 to stop egg production. Ten breeders from each environmental temperature were sacrificed for carcass composition analysis at the beginning of the study. Breeders, during the non-laying period, housed at 15.5C were fed 100 g providing 285 kcal MEn/b/d (2851 kcal/kg; 16%CP) and breeders housed at 23C and 30C were fed 93 g providing 265 kcal MEn/b/d of same diet. Five breeders were sacrificed from each environmental room after the breeders resumed egg production. The ME requirement for maintenance (MEm) determined during the non-laying period was 104.3, 98.1, and 99.4 kcal/kg0.75 for birds housed in 15.5, 23, and 30 C, respectively. At first egg, 136, 130, and 128 g/bird/d of same diet previously fed during the non-laying period provided 388, 371, and 365 kcal MEn/b/d to broiler breeder hens housed at 15.5, 23, and 30 C, respectively. The egg number, egg weight, and BW change for each breeder during egg production was evaluated through the remainder of the 10 wk period. At the end of the trial, all birds were sacrificed and frozen at -4 C for carcass composition analysis. Body weight data collected during the non-laying period was used to construct a single equation by plotting Metabolizable energy (ME) against body weight change for each individual hen to calculate the MEm. Egg production and egg weights were recorded daily after egg production resumed. The MEg and MEe requirement for BW gain and egg production were determined for breeders in each of the environmental temperatures based on the energy content of carcass and egg mass and the respective efficiency of energy utilization. The average MEg and MEe for the three environmental temperatures was 5.8 kcal/g and 2.3 kcal/g , respectively. Three equations were developed from the feeding experiment to predict ME needs for breeders: Equation 1: ME = BW0.75 [ 111.9 - 0.46 T ] + 5.8G + 2.3EM Equation 2: ME = BW0.75 [110.3 - 0.47 T + 0.055 (T - 22.5)2] + 5.8G + 2.3EM Equation 3: ME = BW0.75 [111.02 - 0.49 T + 0.049 (T - 22.07)2] + BW change (1/0.77 x ERf + 1/0.37 x ERp) + ECE/0.73 x EM, where ME = metabolizable energy (kcal), BW = body weight (kg0.75), T= temperature (C), BW change = body weight change (g/d), ERf = energy retained as fat (kcal), ERp = energy retained as protein (kcal); ECE = energy content of eggs (kcal/g); and EM = egg mass (g). PARTICIPANTS: Craig Coon, Professor, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone]; Judy England, Program Associate, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone]; Catalina Salas, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone]; Ricardo Ekmay, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone] TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience is the poultry industry and primary breeders. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
The present study shows the estrogen receptor blocking agent Tamoxifen (TAM) can be effectively utilized to stop egg production and accurately determine MEm and MEg in individual birds. Following a short time period for the natural depletion of TAM, the efficiency of utilization of ME for egg production and MEe can be measured in same individual hens. The use of TAM-treated broiler breeder hens in present study allowed the estimation of the coefficients needed for developing ME prediction models. The estimated coefficients and their variations can be obtained from each individual (unique) breeder. The use of non-laying broiler breeders allowed a more accurate estimation of MEm without interaction with EP and also provided an improved opportunity to estimate an accurate value for MEe when egg production was resumed. The use of TAM methodology made possible the use of the individual characteristics for estimating ME requirements and avoided the use of a group average value of MEm. The use of TAM also provided an advantage of allowing the use of larger numbers of individual breeders which would be difficult with indirect or direct metabolic chamber calorimetric studies because of the availability and costs of large numbers of chambers. Dietary energy costs are a major part of the production costs of producing hatching eggs and hatched chicks. A better understanding of ME needs of breeders during production and how environmental temperatures change the requirements will have a large economical impact on the Poultry Industry.

Publications

• Ekmay, R.D., Salas, C., England, J., Cerrate, S. and C.N. Coon. 2012. The effects of pullet body weight, dietary nonpyhtate phosphorus intake, and breeder feeding regimen on production performance, chick quality, and bone remodeling in broiler breeders. Poult Sci. 91:948-964.
• England, J.A., C. Salas, R.D. Ekmay, and C.N. Coon. 2012. Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry analysis of broiler breeder eggs for prediction of egg components and evaluation of egg shell quality. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 11(5):316-325.
• Reyes, M.E., C. Salas, and C.N. Coon. 2012. Metabolizable energy requirements for broiler breeders in different environmental temperatures. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 11 (7):453-461.
• Salas, C., R. D. Ekmay, J. England, S. Cerrate and C.N. Coon. 2012. Determination of chicken body composition measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 11 (7):462-468.
• Ekmay, R.D., C. Salas, J. England, S. Cerrate and C. N. Coon. 2013. The effects of age, energy and protein intake on protein turnover and the expression of proteolysis-related genes in the broiler breeder hen. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. B. 164:38-43.
• Kuttappan, V.A., G. R. Huff, W. E. Huff, B. M. Hargis, J. K. Apple, C. Coon and C.M. Owens. 2012. Comparison of hematologic and serologic profiles of broiler birds with normal (NORM) and severe (SEV) degrees of white striping in breast fillets. Poult. Sci. (Accepted, In Press)
• Ekmay, R.D., M. De Beer, S. J. Mei, M. Manangi, and C.N. Coon. 2012. Amino acid requirements of broiler breeders at peak production for egg mass, body weight, and fertility. Poult. Sci. (Accepted, In Press)
• Cerrate, S., K. Vignale, R. Ekmay, J. England, and C. Coon. 2012. Effect of a commercial enzyme on energy cost and endogenous losses of fat and protein in broiler chicks. Poult. Sci. 91: (Suppl. 1). P265.
• Ekmay, R., C. Salas, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2012. The impact of diet and age on protein turnover and its underlying mechanisms in broiler breeders. Poult. Sci. 91: (Suppl. 1). P142.

Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: A 3x2x2 factorial experiment, consisting of 52 hens per treatment, was conducted to determine the effects of pullet BW, dietary NPP, and feeding regimen on performance, progeny quality, and bone remodeling. Cobb 500 broiler breeder pullets were reared to three different growth curves: 20% under, Cobb standard, and 20% over. Body weights were recorded weekly and feed adjustments made accordingly. At 21 wk, 624 hens were fed one of two breeder diets differing only in the amount of dietary NPP: 0.15% or 0.40%. A normal feeding regimen was appropriate for the particular growth curve; an alternative regimen considered the three growth curves together as a flock. At 24, 26, and 29 wk, blood was collected from 5 hens per treatment every four hours over a twenty-four hour period. Plasma samples were analyzed for total alkaline phosphatase (tALP), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), parathyroid hormone related peptide (PTHrp), Ca, and inorganic P (iP). Eggs per hen housed were diminished in hens fed the low dietary NPP and by low pullet target weight. Hens fed low dietary NPP also had lower egg weights but better egg shell quality. Mortality was significantly higher in hens fed low dietary NPP. Breeder tibia relative strength and ash were also significantly lower in hens fed low dietary NPP %, regardless of the quantitative amount. Progeny tibia ash was not affected by any treatment. Total ALP responded to pullet BW, however by wk 29, tALP also became sensitive to dietary NPP. The NPP by pullet BW interaction for TRAP levels became significant by 29 weeks, and pullet BW was significant at wk 24. The NPP by pullet growth curve interaction was also critical for plasma iP levels throughout the sampling period. In summary, both 0.15% dietary NPP and reared pullets 20% under standard BW negatively impact egg production, but do not impair progeny productivity. Body composition appears to be a main contributor in bone remodeling mechanisms, especially during the transition into egg production. PARTICIPANTS: Craig Coon, Professor, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone]; Judy England, Program Associate, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone];Catalina Salas, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone]; Ricardo Ekmay, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone] TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience is the poultry industry and primary breeders. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
Reducing dietary NPP to 0.15% has significant negative effects on breeder performance including increased mortality, reduced egg production, and reduced skeletal quality. Based on the data collected in this study it appears that the broiler breeder hen attempts to conserve skeletal quality when fed a diet containing a low level of NPP. She accomplishes this by reducing bone mobilization as well as egg production. Also, during the transition into sexual maturity the BW of the broiler breeder pullet seems to exert a greater effect than dietary NPP concentration on bone remodeling. This is especially true for bone deposition. More research data should be collected in studies aimed at elucidating the bone dynamics of the broiler breeder pullet as related to what aspects of a rearing growth curve influences bone development.

Publications

• Craig N. Coon, Ricardo Ekmay and Megharaja K. Manangi. 2011. Faecal, Urinary and Circulatory Phosphorus Flow in Poultry. Pages 1-28 In: MN Nutrition Conference, Owatanna, MN. September 19-21.
• Z.L. Zhou, N.C. Rath, G.R. Huff, W.E. Huff, K.S. Rasaputra, C. Salas and C.N. Coon. 2011. Bone Characteristics of 16 Wk-Old-Turkeys Subjected to Different Dietary Supplements and Simulated Stress. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 10 (5): 332-337.
• R.D. Ekmay and C.N. Coon. 2011. An Examination of the P Requirements of Broiler Breeders for Performance, Progeny Quality and P Balance 2. Ca Particle Size. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 10 (10): 760-765.
• R. D. Ekmay, C. Salas, S. Cerrate, J. England, and C. N. Coon. 2011. Lysine stable isotope partitioning in broiler breeders as affected by protein and energy intake. Poultry Science Association Annual Meeting Abstracts. Poultry Science, Volume 90, (E-Suppl. 1): 87.
• S. Cerrate, C. Salas, R. Ekmay, J. England, and C. Coon. 2011. An approach to determine endogenous lysine in the gastrointestinal tract of broiler chickens. Poultry Science Association Annual Meeting Abstracts. Poultry Science, Volume 90, (E-Suppl. 1): 137.
• C. Salas, R. D. Ekmay, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2011. Study of the mechanisms of lipid mobilization towards egg formation in broiler breeder hens using stable isotopes. Poultry Science Association Annual Meeting Abstracts. Poultry Science, Volume 90, (E-Suppl. 1): 164.
• C. Salas, R. D. Ekmay, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2011. Energy utilization modeling for broiler breeder hens. Poultry Science Association Annual Meeting Abstracts. Poultry Science, Volume 90, (E-Suppl. 1): 164.
• Cerrate, S., R. Ekmay, J. England, and C. Coon. 2012. Metabolizable and net energy values for feed ingredients and an enzyme complex in broiler chicks. Poultry Science. 91:22(Abst.) International Poultry Exposition, Atlanta, GA
• V.Durairaj, N.C.Rath, F.D.Clark, C.N.Coon, W.E.Huff, R. Okimoto, G.R. Huff. 2012. Effects of high fat diet and prednisolone on femoral head separation in chickens. Br. Poultry Science (in press, first issue for 2012)
• R. D. Ekmay, C. Salas, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2012. The effects of pullet body weight, dietary NPP intake, and breeder feeding regimen on production performance, chick quality, and bone remodeling in broiler breeders. Poult. Sci. (In Press).

Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: A trial was conducted to determine the effects of different rearing feed regimens on plasma hormone and metabolite levels and hepatic lipid metabolism and gene expression on sexually mature broiler breeders. Cobb 500 birds were divided into two groups at 4 wks and fed either everyday (ED) or skip-a-day (SKP). At 24 wks of age, all birds were switched over to an ED regimen. At 26.4 wks, breeder hens were randomly selected and euthanized at intervals after feeding. Livers were sampled from 4 hens at 4 h intervals for 24 h for a total of 28 samples per treatment. Blood was sampled from 4 hens per sampling time; sampling times were 0, 30, 60 min, 2 and 4 h after feeding and then every 4 hours up to 24 h for a total of 36 samples per treatment. Significant interaction effects were found between time and feeding regimen for ACC and ME mRNA expression. The peak for ACC expression was higher in ED reared birds, while the peak for ME expression was higher in SKP reared hens. The pattern of expression in SKP reared hens was more consistent and was similar to results seen at 16 wk (de Beer et al., 2007). ED reared hens showed large surges in ACC expression immediately after feeding and then again at h 12; dissimilar to results in pullets. The surges seen in both treatments may have to do with the timing of egg formation and synthesis of yolk. Malic enzyme was found to be elevated in feed-restricted 16 wk old pullets on a SKP feeding regimen (de Beer et al., 2008). The ME expression in SKP reared hens showed significant interaction effects and a higher peak. Overall plasma levels of insulin-like growth factor II were higher in SKP reared birds. Sixteen wk-old pullets showed no difference in IGF-II levels, however, the ED pullets showed a significantly higher IGF-I level. Elements of these findings can be found in the results by de Beer (lower IGF-I in SKP reared hens) and the study presented here (higher IGF-II in SKP reared hens). Overall plasma corticosterone levels were also higher in SKP reared birds and significant interaction effects between time and feeding regimen were seen. Corticosterone is a stress hormone that was shown to be significantly elevated in pullets on a SKP feeding regimen (de Beer et al., 2008). Despite a normalized feeding schedule, SKP reared breeder hens were still showing increased corticosterone with a peak over threefold greater than ED reared breeders. In pullets, spikes in corticosterone were attributed to crop emptying and hunger. The expression of apo A1 was significantly higher in ED reared hens: significant interaction effects were also noted. Richards et al. (2003) found that both restricted and ad libitum fed breeder hens had elevated levels of apo B expression, apo VLDL-II expression, and FABP expression compared to breeder pullet levels, whereas, apo A-1 expression was significantly diminished in hens compared to pullet levels. In conclusion, SKP-reared hens show characteristics of increased lipogenesis compared to ED-reared hens: a pattern that was established during the pullet stage by the feeding regimen. The carry-over of certain traits (corticosterone, ME, ACC) may be due to early development in SKP birds. PARTICIPANTS: Craig N. Coon, Professor, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone: [phone]; Judy England, Program Associate, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail],phone:[phone]; Ricardo Ekmay, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone: [phone]; Catalina Salas, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone] TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience is the poultry industry and primary breeders PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
Understanding the economic impact of skip-a-day feeding will help producers to make more informed decisions about feeding strategies during rearing. The benefits of marginally improved uniformity associated with skip-a-day feeding may be outweighed by the significant improvements in efficiency due to everyday feeding. Studies showed repeatedly that everyday fed birds utilized feed between 7 and 10 % more efficiently from 0 to 25 weeks of age than skip-a-day fed birds. Using average feed costs of $191 per ton for starter, $179 per ton for grower and $187 per ton for breeder diets the feed savings by changing from skip-a-day to everyday feeding would be between 18 and 25 c per bird. With approximately 75 million breeders in the United States, that would equate to a saving in feed costs between $13.5 million to $18.75 million. Apart from savings in feed costs, it was found that everyday fed birds consistently produced 4 more hatching eggs than skip-a-day fed birds. Given a cost of $1.60 per dozen hatching eggs, this equates to increased income of 53 c per bird. With 75 million breeders nationally, the increased revenue from hatching eggs would equate to $39.75 million. The total saving per breeder by using an everyday feeding system during the rearing period would be approximately 71 c per breeder or $53 million for the poultry industry on a national basis.

Publications

• Salas, C., R. D. Ekmay, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2010. Energy requirement of broiler breeder hens: Egg weight, egg composition and progeny. Poult.Sci. 89:370. E-Suppl. 1.
• Ekmay, R. D., Salas, C, England, J, and C. N. Coon. 2010. Partitioning of lysine stable isotopes in broiler breeders during the transition into sexual maturity. Poult. Sci. 89:84. E-Suppl. 1.
• Salas, C., R. Ekmay, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2010. Energy requirement of broiler breeder hens with different body weights. In: Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition. EAAP publication. No. 127. Pg 635-636. Edited by G. Matteo Crovetto. 3rd EAAP International Symposium on Energy and Protein Metabolism. Parma, Italy. ISSN: 0071-2477. Wageningen Academic Publishers. The Netherlands.
• Ekmay, R.D., M. de Beer, R.W. Rosebrough, M.P. Richards, J.P. McMurtry and C.N. Coon. 2010. The role of feeding regimens in regulating metabolism of sexually mature broiler breeders. In: Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition. EAAP publication. No. 127. Pg 261-262. Edited by G. Matteo Crovetto. 3rd EAAP International Symposium on Energy and Protein Metabolism. Parma, Italy. ISSN: 0071-2477. Wageningen Academic Publishers. The Netherlands.
• Coon, C. 2010. Maximizing energy utilization for poultry. Pages 1-22 In: Proceedings for California Nutrition Conference. Fresno State University, Fresno, California.
• C. N. Coon, R. Ekmay and M. K. Manangi. 2010. Phosphorus Retention: Ca: P ratio, calcium particle size, bone remodeling, skeletal integrity of breeder and progeny and phytase for poultry. Pages 1-30 In: Proceedings for California Nutrition Conference. Fresno State University, Fresno, California.
• Manangi, M., R. Ekmay, and C. Coon. 2010. Fecal, Urinary, and Circulatory Phosphorus Flow in Poultry. Pages 59-62 In: Proceedings for the International Phytase Summit. Washington, D.C.
• Ekmay, R. and C.N. Coon. 2010. The effect of limestone particle size on the performance of three broiler breeder purelines. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 9 (11):1038-1042.
• Ekmay, R. and C.N. Coon. 2010. An examination of the P requirements of broiler breeders for performance, progeny quality, and P balance 1. Non-phytate phosphorus. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 9 (11):1043-1049.
• Ekmay, R.D., M. de Beer, R.W. Rosebrough, M.P. Richards, J.P. McMurtry, and C.N. Coon. 2010. The role of feeding regimens in regulating metabolism of sexually mature broiler breeders. Poult. Sci. 89:1171-1181.
• Richards, M.P., R.W. Rosebrough, C.N. Coon and J.P. McMurtry. 2010. Feed intake regulation for the female broiler breeder: In theory and in practice. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 19:182-193.
• Cerrate S. and C. Coon, 2010. Estimation of net energy values of feedstuffs by simulation of biochemical reactions in broiler chicks. Poult. Sci. 89: 556. E-Suppl. 1.
• Cerrate, S., R. Ekmay, C. Salas and C. Coon, 2010. Effect of glutamine and temperature on performance of broiler chickens. Poult. Sci. 89: 91. E-Suppl. 1.
• Cerrate S., R. Ekmay, C. Salas and Craig Coon, 2010. Broiler energy choice feeding with same protein levels and ambient housing temperatures. Poult. Sci.. 89: 656. E-Suppl. 1.
• Salas,C., R. D. Ekmay, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2010. Utilization of glandless and standard cottonseed meal in broiler diets. Poult Sci. 89:384 E-Suppl. 1.
• Salas, C., R. D. Ekmay, J. England, S. Cerrate, and C. N. Coon. 2010. TMEn and amino acid digestibility of glandless and commercial cottonseed meal for broilers. Poult. Sci, 89:385. E-Suppl. 1.

Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Dietary P is one of the major costs associated with breeder diets. Dietary recommendations are often based on layer hen data due to a lack of research to determine breeder P requirements. Concerns over reduced hatches and better chick quality have kept industry levels at 0.40% non-phytate P (NPP). Past research at the University of Arkansas has shown that broiler breeders may be fed dietary NPP levels as low as 0.20% NPP (288 mg/day) compared to feeding the industry standard of 0.40% NPP (600-660 mg/day) without affecting mortality, egg production, egg quality, or subsequent chick quality. The research, however, showed that broiler breeder skeletal integrity is diminished when breeders consume less than 360 mg NPP per day. Recent research was conducted to determine the NPP daily intake that would decrease hatching egg production and to study the influence of NPP, pullet body composition, and feeding regimen on bone turnover in breeder hens. Pullets were reared on one of three growth curves (standard body weights, 20% heavier than standard, and 20% lighter than standard). Breeder pullets from the three rearing programs were individually housed at 21 wk and fed either a 0.15% NPP or 0.40% NPP diet. It was determined that during the transition into egg production, i.e. 24 to 26 wk, pullet body composition influenced bone turnover. Smaller breeder pullets deposited more bone than larger hens during the early period and dietary NPP intake did not influence bone turnover. However, breeder hens at peak production (29 wk) fed diets with 0.15% NPP (216 mg NPP/day)were mobilizing less bone than hens fed 0.40% NPP (576 mg NPP/day). It was determined that breeders fed 216 mg NPP/day had a significant increase in mortality, produced fewer and smaller hatching eggs, and breeder bone ash was reduced. The progeny quality from breeders fed the low intake of NPP was not affected. The research shows that 216 mg NPP intake/day is too low. The daily intake of 360 mg NPP is the minimum intake suggested for performance and breeder bone quality. A study was also conducted to determine the effects of particulate limestone on three purelines of broiler breeders: two female lines and one male line. Breeders were individually housed in temperature-controlled housing and fed diets with either large (>3 mm) or small particle limestone (<0.180 mm). Strong genetic differences were determined for egg production, specific gravity, Ca retention, progeny and breeder bone quality. Large particle limestone improved breeder bone quality but no consistent particle size effects were determined for other parameters. There was a positive correlation between breeder bone ash and progeny bone ash and a negative correlation between shell quality and breeder bone ash. Broiler breeder purelines have unique sets of genetic potentials that influence production and egg quality and the purelines may also utilize nutrients differently. PARTICIPANTS: Participants:Craig N. Coon, Professor, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone: [phone]; Judy England, Program Associate, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail],phone:[phone]; Ricardo Ekmay, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone: [phone]; Catalina Salas, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone:[phone] TARGET AUDIENCES: TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for the research is the poultry industry and primary breeders. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
A 0.25% NPP level in breeder I and breeder II diets instead of 0.40% would decrease the feed costs between 5 to 6.4 U.S. dollars per ton depending upon the costs of dicalcium phosphate and 30 cents per breeder during a 40 wk production period. The feed costs per dozen hatching eggs could be lowered by approximately 2 cents per dozen.

Publications

• Manangi, M., J.S. Sands and C. N. Coon. 2009. Effect of phytase on ileal amino acid digestibility, nitrogen retention and AMEn for broilers fed diets containing low and high phytate phosphorus. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 8:929-938.
• Yoho, D.E., J.R. Moyle, R.S.Harper, S.M. Whipple, C.N. Coon, K.J. Wilson, R.K. Bramwell. 2009. Feeding low crude protein levels and their effect on broiler breeder hatching egg production. Poult. Sci. 88:Supplement 1, P158.
• Bramwell, R.K., J.R.Moyle, D.E.Yoho, S.M. Whipple, R.S. Harper, C.N. Coon, and K.J. Wilson. 2009. Feeding low crude protein levels and the effect on broiler breeder hatching egg fertility and hatchability. Poult. Sci. 88: Supplement 1, P177.
• De Beer, M. and C.N. Coon. 2009. The effect of different feed restriction programs and dietary L-carnitine supplementation on hepatic lipogenesis, plasma heterophil to lymphocyte ratio and yolk IgY content of broiler breeder hens. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 8:328-341.
• De Beer, M. and C.N. Coon. 2009. The effect of feed restriction programs and growth curves on reproductive performance, in vitro lipogenesis and heterophil to lymphocyte ratios in broiler breeder hens. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 8:373-388.
• Manangi, M., J.S. Sands and C. N. Coon. 2009. Effect of adding phytase to broiler diets containing low and high phytate phosphorus: 1. Performance, phytate P hydrolysis, tibia ash, litter phosphorus and Ca and P digestion and retention. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 8: 919-928.
• Ekmay, R.D., C. Salas, J. England and C.N. Coon. 2009. The effects of rearing program, dietary NPP, and breeder feeding regimen on production performance, chick quality, and bone remodeling in broiler breeders. Poult. Sci. 88:Supplement 1, P105.
• Ekmay, R.D., C. Salas, J. England and C.N. Coon. 2009. The effects of L-carnitine supplementation on the fat characteristics and progeny weight of broiler breeder hens. Poult. Sci. 88:Supplement 1, P105.
• C. Salas, R.D. Ekmay, J. England and C.N. Coon. 2009. Energy requirement of broiler breeder hens reared for standard, 20% lighter and 20% heavier pullet body weights. Poult. Sci. 88:Supplement 1, P118.
• Ekmay, R.D. and C. Coon. 2009. The effects of reduced NPP levels and limestone particle size on production, skeletal integrity, progeny quality and P balance in broiler breeder hens. Short Communications. Page 189 In:Proceedings and abstracts of the 17th European Symposium on Poultry Nutrition. Edinburgh Scotland..WPSA European Federation, UK Branch.
• Ekmay, R.D. and C.N. Coon. 2009. Phosphorus requirement for broiler breeder hens. P1-16 In:Proceedings of Arkansas Nutrition Conference. Poultry Federation. Rogers, Arkansas

Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: A major limiting factor in the continuing development and growth of the poultry industry in Arkansas and the nation is the production of adequate hatching eggs and quality broiler chicks necessary to supply the industry. A key problem associated with the feeding and management of breeder strains producing ultra high yield progeny is a significant reduction in fertile hatching egg production which has increased the feed costs per hatched chick. The inclusion of dietary P is one of the major costs associated with breeder diets. Dietary recommendations are often based on layer hen data due to a lack of research to determine breeder P requirements. Concerns over reduced hatches and better chick quality have kept industry levels at 0.40% non-phytate P ( NPP). Along with the rising costs of dicalcium phosphate, environmental concerns over P runoff add incentive into investigating the P requirements of broiler breeder hens. Key factors that may affect female fertility and hatchability during a production period may be weight, body composition and age as well as dietary Ca and P intakes. Research at the University of Arkansas recently evaluated the efficacy of reduced dietary P levels on P balance, egg production, egg quality and progeny chick quality for broiler breeder hens. Research also evaluated the role of Ca particle size on these same parameters. Breeder pullets were individually housed in temperature-controlled housing and fed diets with graded amounts of PP and/or particulate limestone. Breeder performance consisting of egg production, egg weight, specific gravity, breeder tibia strength, breeder tibia ash, breeder tibia P, fertility, hatchability, progeny weight, progeny tibia ash, and progeny tibia P, were determined in these studies. Large particle limestone was determined to increase total eggs, egg weight, specific gravity, and P deposition in broiler breeders. These results were seen in broiler breeder purelines to a smaller extent. Particulate limestone improved shell quality, breeder tibia ash, and showed a tendency in improving egg numbers. It was also determined that dietary NPP levels as low as 0.20%, or 288 mg at 144g peak intake, did not negatively impact a breeder hen's egg production, reproductive capacity, or chick quality, however, breeder bone quality (bone ash and strength) was reduced when breeders were fed diets containing less than 0.25% NPP. Feeding current industry levels of 0.40% NPP in breeder diets did not confer any additional benefits to these same parameters and it was determined that the amount of excreted P was significantly higher. The University of Arkansas research shows that feeding available P levels of 0.25% instead of 0.40% via a combination of dietary inorganic P and phytase would meet a breeder's requirements for hatching egg production and chick quality plus decrease P loss in the environment. PARTICIPANTS: PARTICIPANTS: Craig N. Coon, Professor, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone: [phone] Ricardo Ekmay, Graduate Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone: [phone]. Ricardo obtained his Master's degree with this research. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for the research is the poultry industry and primary breeders. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
A 0.25% NPP level in breeder I and breeder II diets instead of 0.40% would decrease the feed costs between 5 to 6.4 U.S. dollars per ton depending upon the costs of dicalcium phosphate and 30 cents per breeder during a 40 wk production period. The feed costs per dozen hatching eggs could be lowered by approximately 2 cents per dozen.

Publications

• M. de Beer, R.D. Ekmay, R.W. Rosebrough, M.P. Richards, J.P. McMurtry, and C.N. Coon. 2008. The role of feeding regimens in regulating metabolism of sexually mature broiler breeders: hepatic lipid metabolism, plasma hormones and metabolites. Poult. Sci. 87: Supplement 1, P144.
• R.D. Ekmay and C.N. Coon. 2008. Determination of optimal levels of nonphytate phosphorus for eggshell quality, production, hatchability, and chick quality in broiler breeder hens. Poult. Sci. 87:Supplement 1, P99.
• V. Durairaj, C.N. Coon, W.E. Huff, G.R. Huff, F.D. Clark, and N.C. Rath. 2008. Femoral head disarticulation disorder in chickens. Poult. Sci. 87:Supplement 1, P32.
• Manangi, M. and C. Coon. 2008. Phosphorus Retention: Ca: P ratio, calcium particle size, and phytase for poultry. Proceedings for the Multi-State Nutrition Conference, Indianapolis, IN.
• M. de Beer, J.P.McMurtry, D.M.Brocht, and C.N. Coon. 2008. An examination of the role of feeding regimens in regulating metabolism during the broiler breeder grower period.2. Plasma hormones and metabolites. Poult. Sci. 87:264-275.
• M.K. Manangi and C.N.Coon. 2008. Phytate phosphorus hydrolysis in broilers in response to dietary phytase, calcium, and phosphorus concentrations. Poult. Sci. 87:1577-1586.
• V. Durairaj, N.C. Rath, K.S.Rasaputra, L.Kannan, C.N.Coon, W.E.Huff, G.R.Huff, and F.D.Clark. 2008. Femoral head epiphysiolysis in broiler chickens. Poult. Sci. 87:Supplement 1, P148.

Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07

Outputs
OUTPUTS: A major limiting factor in the continuing development and growth of the poultry industry in Arkansas and the nation is the production of adequate hatching eggs and quality broiler chicks necessary to supply the industry. A key problem associated with the feeding and management of breeder strains producing ultra high yield progeny is a significant reduction in fertile hatching egg production which has increased the feed costs per hatched chick. Dietary programs have been shown to have a direct affect on male fertility and hatching egg production but limited work on female fertility has been conducted. Key factors that may affect female fertility during a production period may be weight, body composition and age. Dietary programs that provide optimum egg production are utilized for breeder hens because there is a lack of information suggesting different requirements for fertility. Research at the University of Arkansas recently conducted a feeding study to determine the requirements for broiler breeders for crude protein and amino acids for maintenance and production. The breeder pullets were individually housed in temperature controlled housing and fed synthetic diets to determine amino acid requirements for maintenance and fed semi-purified diets to determine production requirements. Breeder performance consisting of percent mortality, hatching egg production, fertility, body weight gain, feed conversion, and egg weights were determined with these production studies. Breeders were showed to require diets containing significantly less crude protein for production and fertility than presently being fed by the industry. Breeders were shown to require 13% crude protein containing ideal amino acid levels providing approximately 20 g per day for optimum production and fertility. The industry normally feeds a 16% breeder I diet and a 15.5% breeder II diet providing as much as 26 g of protein per day. The University of Arkansas research shows that breeders fed 16% protein diets had an average of 82% fertile hatching eggs compared to 90.5% fertile hatching eggs with a 13% protein diet. The digestible essential amino acid requirements determined for optimum breeder production was shown to be similar to previously suggested NRC(1994 )requirements for arginine, methionine, phenylalanine and isoleucine but the research showed a higher requirement for digestible lysine. PARTICIPANTS: Craig N. Coon, Professor, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone: [phone] Marc de Beer, Research Assistant, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail], phone: [phone] Meg Manangi, Research Associate, Department of Poultry Science, [e-mail] Cooperating Scientists or Institutions. John McMurtry, Beltsville, USDA.

Impacts
A 13% crude protein level in breeder I and breeder II diets would decrease the feed costs approximately 4 Dollars per ton and 25 cents per breeder during the production period. The feed costs per dozen hatching eggs could be lowered by approximately 2 cents per dozen and the number of fertile hatching eggs increased eight percent from an average of 145 per breeder to 159 hatching eggs. The increased number of hatched chicks per breeder could increase by 10 increasing revenue by $3.00 per breeder. The additional hatched chicks or hatching eggs are worth significantly more than just the increased monetary value of chicks. The continuing growth of the poultry industry in Arkansas and the U.S. will require that Breeders increase the supply of quality chicks for grow-out to support the world-wide increasing demand for poultry meat. Breeders could be more selective in hatching eggs that are utilized for incubation and improve both chick quality and hatching percentage.

Publications

• de Beer, M. and C. N. Coon. 2007. The effect of different feed restriction programs on reproductive performance, efficiency, frame size, and uniformity in broiler breeder hens. Poult. Sci. 86: 1927-1939.
• de Beer, M., J.P. McMurtry, D.M. Brocht, and C.N. Coon. 2007. The effect of feed restriction programs and growth curves on reproductive performance, stress, and metabolism in broiler breeder hens. Poult. Sci. 86: Supplement 1, p217.
• de Beer, M. and C.N. Coon. 2007. Effects of feeding programs during rearing on carcass fatty acid profiles and serum α1 acid glycoprotein levels in broiler breeder hens. Poult. Sci. 86: Supplement 1, p218.
• de Beer, M., R.W. Rosebrough, B.A. Russell, S.M. Poch, M.P. Richards, and C. N. Coon. 2007. An examination of the role of feeding regimens in reglating metabolism during the broiler breeder grower period. 1. hepatic lipid metabolism. Poult. Sci. 86: 1726-1738.
• Manangi, M.K. and and C.N. Coon. 2007. Fractional protein synthesis rate in breast muscle and liver tissue of broiler breeder hens before and after sexual maturity based on using 15N-Phe and LC-MS and GC-C-IRMS. Poult. Sci. 86: Supplement 1, p523.
• Hruby, M., J.K. Shetty, G. Chotani, T. Dodge, and C.N. Coon. 2007. Phytase in ethanol production process improves nutritive value of DDGS. Poult. Sci. 86: Supplement 1, p397.
• Manangi, M.K., C.N. Coon, E.E.M. Pierson and M. Hruby. 2007. Fiber component type and level affect DDGS nutrient digestibility. Poult. Sci. 86: Supplement 1, p313-314.
• de Beer, M., R.W. Rosebrough, B.A. Russell, S.M. Poch, M.P. Richards, J.P. McMurtry, and C.N. Coon. 2007. The role of feeding regimens in regulating metabolism of broiler breeders:hepatic lipid metabolism, plasma hormones and metabolites. Pages 369-370 in EAAP publication No. 124, ISEP-2nd International Symposium on Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition. Vichy,France. I.Ortigues-Marty, N.Miraux, and W. Brand-Williams (Eds). Wageningen Academic Publishers.

Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

Outputs
Modern broilers have incredible genetic potential for growth. The broiler breeders that produce these birds have the same potential for growth but are feed restricted to prevent them from expressing it. This restriction is necessary to avoid the variety of problems that occur when broiler breeders are allowed to grow rapidly. Larger body weights and increased fat accumulation in broiler breeders have led to leg problems, early onset of sexual maturity, accelerated ovarian follicular development and the incidence of multiple hierarchies and multiple ovulations. The ultimate result is poor reproductive function. Feed restriction helps to alleviate the effects of these problems. Broiler breeder managers prefer to utilize skip-a-day feeding programs due to the benefits associated with uniformity. By feeding larger quantities of feed every second day, feed cleanup times are increased. This allows smaller, less aggressive birds' access to the feed for a longer time. Skip-a-day feeding requires that birds deposit nutrients into body reserves after a meal and then remobilize those nutrients during the off-feed day. This process may be inefficient. Three studies were conducted at the University of Arkansas Poultry Research Farm comparing everyday and skip-a-day feeding from 4 weeks of age to 5 % production. Several parameters were measured including efficiency of feed utilization and performance parameters. The studies aim to determine the effects of different feeding programs on growth, body composition, egg production and various metabolic parameters. These included hepatic lipogenesis, lipogenic enzyme gene expression and metabolic hormone profiles. The results of these studies will help broiler breeder producers to determine the impact of different feeding programs on feed cost and costs per hatched chick or hatching egg. The metabolic analyses will help to explain the reasons for differences in efficiency of growth, production and body composition between the different feeding programs.

Impacts
Understanding the economic impact of skip-a-day feeding will help producers to make more informed decisions about feeding strategies during rearing. The benefits of marginally improved uniformity associated with skip-a-day feeding may be outweighed by the significant improvements in efficiency due to everyday feeding. Studies showed repeatedly that everyday fed birds utilized feed between 7 and 10 % more efficiently from 0 to 25 weeks of age than skip-a-day fed birds. Using average feed costs of $191 per ton for starter, $179 per ton for grower and $187 per ton for breeder diets the feed savings by changing from skip-a-day to everyday feeding would be between 18 and 25 c per bird. With approximately 75 million breeders in the United States, that would equate to a saving in feed costs between $13.5 million to $18.75 million. Apart from savings in feed costs, it was found that everyday fed birds consistently produced 4 more hatching eggs than skip-a-day fed birds. Given a cost of $1.60 per dozen hatching eggs, this equates to increased income of 53 c per bird. With 75 million breeders nationally, the increased revenue from hatching eggs would equate to $39.75 million. The total saving per breeder by using an everyday feeding system during the rearing period would be approximately 71 c per breeder or $53 million for the poultry industry on a national basis.

Publications

• M.K. Manangi and C.N. Coon. 2006. Effects of varied levels of dietary nonphytate P and Ca on P excretion and relationship between plasma inorganic P and urinary excretion of P in broilers. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p92.
• M.K. Manangi, F.D. Clark, and C.N. Coon. 2006. Improved colostomy technique and excrement collection device for broilers and broiler breeder hens. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p125.
• M.de Beer and C.N. Coon. 2006. The amino acid requirements for production and fertility of broiler breeder hens at peak production. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p126.
• M de Beer and C.N. Coon. 2006. The effect of dietary L-carnitine on production and metabolism of broiler breeder hens reared using everyday or skip-a-day feed restriction programs. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p131.
• J.W. Lu and C.N. Coon. 2006 The effect of vitamins supplementation on broiler breeder performance, hatchability, and methionine metabolism in 18 day-old chick embryos. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p65.
• M.K. Manangi and C.N. Coon. 2006. The effect of calcium carbonate particle size and solubility on the utilization of phosphorus from phytase for broilers. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p 110.
• D.E. Yoho, R.K. Bramwell, C.N. Coon, and C. Wiernusz. 2006. Feeding broiler breeder hens into a second production cycle following forced molting. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p157.
• Manangi, M. and C.N. Coon. 2006. Phosphorus utilization and environmental concerns. Proceedings of 4th Mid-Atlantic Nutrition Conference. P 1-19. Timonium, Maryland
• Coon, C., M.de Beer, M. Manangi, J. Lu, M. Reyes, K. Bramwell, J.M. Sun, N. Sakomura, B. Rosebrough, M. Richards, and J. McMurtry. 2006. Broiler breeder nutrition. Proceedings for Arkansas Nutrition Conference. P1-24. Rogers, Arkansas.
• De Beer, M. and C.N. Coon. 2006. The effect of increased protein intake during the starter and prebreeder periods on reproductive performance of ultra high yield broiler breeder hens. International J. Poult. Sci. 5 (9):812-821.
• Coon, C., M. Manangi, and S. Seong. 2006. The determination of retainable phosphorus, relative biological availability and relative biological value of phosphorus sources for broilers. Poult. Sci. 86: (PS-06-00179.R1 In Press).
• Manangi, M., D. Clark, and C. Coon. 2006. Improved colostomy technique and excrement (urine)collection device for broilers and broiler breeder hens. Poult. Sci. 86: (PS-06-00331.R1 In Press).
• Lu, J., J. McMurtry, and C. Coon. 2006. Developmental changes of plasma insulin, glucagon, insulin-like growth factors, thyroid hormones and glucose concentrations in chick embryos and hatched chicks. Poult. Sci. 86: (PS-06-00257.R1 In Press)
• M K. Manangi and C. N. Coon. 2006. Calcium particle size effects on excreta, and urinary Ca and P changes in broiler breeder hens. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p30.
• M. de Beer, C.N. Coon, R.W. Rosebrough, B.A. Russel, S.M. Poch, and M.P. Richards. 2006. An examination of the role of feeding regimens in regulating metabolism during the broiler breeder grower period. Poult. Sci. 85: Supplement 1, p88.
• Manangi, M.K. and C.N. Coon. 2006. Evaluation of phytase enzyme with chicks fed basal diets containing different soybean meal samples. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 15:292-306.
• Sun, J.M., M.P. Richards, R.W. Rosebrough, C.M. Ashwell, J.P. McMurtry, and C.N. Coon. 2006. The relationship of body composition, feed intake, and metabolic hormones for broiler breeder females. Poult. Sci. 85:1173-1184.

Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05

Outputs
A key problem associated with the feeding and management of modern breeder strains is the early feed restriction required to control their BW. In order to successfully produce sexual maturity and cause breeder pullets to come into persistent production with photo-stimulation, breeder pullets need to reach a physiological threshold and have adequate fleshing with optimum levels of protein mass and fat tissue available The relationship of body composition of breeder pullets and plasma hormone levels may be a key indicator for determining the needed physiological threshold of pullets. Fluctuations in plasma hormones and substrates may provide signals that link metabolic status to the activation of the reproductive system. The overall goals of the research are to provide a potential indicator of when a flock has reached a mature BW and physiological threshold needed to successfully produce sexual maturity and to determine the hormones associated with carcass composition changes to better coordinate feed management during production. Three hundred and twenty Cobb 500 broiler breeder pullets, 21 wk of age were selected from a flock fed according to Cobb Breeder Management Guide specifications. One hundred and sixty pullets at 21 wk of age were switched to ad libitum feeding while the remaining 160 pullets continued to be control fed. The pullets were photo-stimulated at 22 wk and maintained until 36.5 wk. Plasma samples were obtained, BW determined, and hens were sacrificed for determination of body composition at the following periods: 24 hr prior to photo-stimulation, 2.5 wk after photo-stimulation, 24 hr after first egg and 36.5 wk following peak egg production. Compared with ad libitum fed breeders, the restricted breeders had a higher % carcass protein and lower % carcass fat at all sampling periods. Total egg numbers were greater and abnormal eggs were less for the restricted pullets compared with the ad libitum fed pullets at 36.5 wk. Carcass % fat of ad libitum fed pullets was positively related to plasma glucagon, IGF-П, and 17β-estradiol but negatively related to plasma insulin, intogl (insulin/glucagon molar ratio), IGF-Ι, T4 and T3. Carcass % fat of feed restricted pullets was negatively related to IGF-I, IGF-II, and T4. T4 was the most important hormone for predicting the % carcass fat in ad libitum fed pullets and IGF-I was the most important hormone for predicting the % carcass fat in feed restricted pullets. The % carcass protein for ad libitum fed breeders was positively correlated to IGF-I, T4, T3, intogl, and insulin. Carcass % protein for feed restricted breeders was positively correlated to IGF-I, IGF-II, T4, and glucagon. Stepwise regressions for predicting % carcass protein for breeders fed by both systems shows that T3 and IGF-I concentrations were the most important for ad libitum fed breeders whereas IGF-II and T4 were best for feed restricted breeders. The hormone status of breeders may be a key indicator to help predict the body composition and thus support management decisions for maintaining optimum production.

Impacts
A system to determine when breeder pullets are physiologically ready for sexual maturity will allow breeders to reduce costs and increase production. The ability to sexually stimulate pullets at the correct time to coordinate with body reserves would produce higher peaks in production and also keep persistency of lay higher without overfeeding. Flocks may also be monitored throughout the laying/breeding cycle to coordinate the metabolic hormone levels with body composition, providing a much more scientific way to control feed intake to keep breeders from becoming fat during the period of 31-65 weeks of age. Conservatively, if each breeder flock could produce an average of three additional chicks per breeder, the increased income would be $0.90 per breeder.

Publications

• Sun, J. and C. N. Coon. 2005. The effects of body weight, dietary fat, and feed withdrawal rate on the performance of broiler breeders. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 14:728-739.
• Denton, J. H., C. N. Coon, J.E. Pettigrew, and C. M. Parsons. 2005. Historical and scientific perspectives of same species feeding of animal by-products. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 14:352-361.
• R.K. Bramwell, C.N. Coon, and C. Wiernusz. 2005. Effects of early and slow feed withdrawal times on life of flock production in commercial broiler breeders. Poultry Science. 84: Supplement 1. p25.
• R.K. Bramwell, C.N. Coon, and C. Wiernusz.. 2005. Effects of skip-a-day feeding versus everyday feeding in broiler breeder hens after housing. Poultry Science. 84: Supplement 1. p25.
• M de Beer and C.N. Coon. 2005. The effect of rearing programs on reproductive performance and carcass traits of ultra high yield type broiler breeder hens. Poultry Science. 84: Supplement 1. p 12.
• M. de Beer, J. Sun, J. Lu, K. Bramwell and C. N. Coon. 2005. The crude protein and amino acid requirements for fertility and production for broiler breeders. Poultry Science. 84: Supplement 1. p 12.
• J. Lu and C. N. Coon. 2005. Hepatic betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase and serine hydroxymethyltransferase activities in chick embryos and hatched chicks. Poultry Science. 84: Supplement 1. p 54.
• M. de Beer and C. N. Coon. 2005. The effect of feed restriction programs on body weight, frame size, flock uniformity and in vitro lipogenesis of broiler breeder hens. Poultry Science. 84: Supplement 1. p 52.
• J. Lu and C. N. Coon. 2005. Developmental changes of hepatic free amino acid concentrations involved in methionine metabolism in chick embryos and hatched chicks. Poultry Science. 84: Supplement 1. p 57.