Growth and Feed Consumption in Chickens under Various Photoperiods in Tanzania

Abstract

Growth and feed efficiency in WLH female chicks (10-24 weeks of age) were studied in Tanzania under photoperiods of 18, 15, 12, 9 and 6 hours of oontinuous light/day. Results indicated that 15 h light furnished maximum growth follO'wed closely by 6 h photoperiod. 'JIhe feed consumption/l00 g body weight was significantly higher in 18 and 15 h illuminations over the short term schedule. Feed consumpti.on/ g increase on initial body weight was highest in 18 h (7.09 g), and lowest in 6 'h regime (5.75 g). Feed efficiency in terms of feed conversion percentage was significantly higher in 6 h (25.24), next in order in 15 h (22.82), and ,lowest in 18 h (20.89) period. The 6 h photoperiod gave best results as it reduced feeding costs by about 25-29 percent compared to 18/15 h photoperiods without sacrificing any gro'Wth potential. The 15 h photoperiod seemed to provide optimal ,stimulus for growth, and 18 h period for early sexual maturity. The 18 h illumination however tended to induce refractoriness in feed efficiency in terms of growth returns.