The effects of stocking density on broiler performance

The performance traits of broilers reared in different stocking density groups were investigated. Data were obtained from 910 broilers housed in litter-type pens at densities of 12.5 (1), 15 (2), 17.5 (3) and 20 (4) broilers/m2. Each pen had 14 m2 floor space. More than 60% of the broilers were selected by random sampling and were weighed on the 21st, 35th and 49th days of investigation. Body weight estimates of the 1, 2, 3 and 4 broilers/m2 density groups were 1634.3, 1511.7, 1506.5. and 1503.9 g respectively. Mortality rates were 6.2, 7.1, 7.7 and 6.4% for the same groups respectively. Feed efficiency values were estimated to be 1.97, 2.06, 2.07, and 2.09 kg at 49 days of age for the same groups respectively. The diffeences between the values of the groups with respect to body weight at the 35th day were not statisticaly significant. The first group had higher body weight mean estimates than the other groups at the 49th day (P<.01). On the 21st day of research, the first group had a greater body weight mean estimated than the third and fourth groups (P<.05). The differences between the mortality rate values of the groups were not statistically significant at 21. 35. and 49 days of age. Consequently, it may be said that the increase in the number of brids housed per m2 floor space in pens contributed to a more desirable mortality rate and feed conversion rate; therefore, a stocking density broilers/m2 instead of 10-12 broilers/m2 in broiler rearing has more practical benefit and is more productive.