Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Department of Animal Science, Kash.C., Islamic Azad University, Kashmar, Iran
2 Department of Animal Scince, Ma.C., Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the effects of calcium carbonate particle size, phytase enzyme with and without nighttime feeding on performance, egg quality, bone characteristics, blood parameters, and mineral digestibility in laying hens aged 60 to 70 weeks. A total of 720 Hy-line (W-36) laying hens were allocated in a 2×2×2 factorial arrangement based on a completely randomized design with two types of calcium carbonate particle sizes (100% fine (<0.5 mm) and 75% coarse (2–4 mm) + 25% fine), two levels of phytase enzyme (0 and 300 FTU/kg), and nighttime feeding (with and without). During the experiment, a significant effect of calcium carbonate particle size was observed on improving feed conversion ratio (FCR) and tibia bone strength (P<0.05). Phytase enzyme significantly improved FCR, eggshell percentage, and ash, calcium, and phosphorus content in the tibia (P<0.05). Nighttime feeding resulted in an increase in egg weight, eggshell percentage, and alkaline phosphatase activity, as well as a reduction in serum concentrations of calcium and phosphorus (P<0.05). The interaction between calcium carbonate particle size and phytase was significant for serum calcium levels (P<0.05). In conclusion, the use of coarser calcium carbonate particles together with phytase supplementation and night feeding improved feed conversion ratio, eggshell quality, and tibia strength. This combination can be recommended as an effective nutritional strategy to enhance productive performance and bone health in commercial laying hens.
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Main Subjects
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