The effects of stocking density and housing on feed efficiency and growth performance of broiler chickens
type: CreativeWork
description: The poultry industry in South Africa is a significant contributor to the agricultural sector, with broiler production accounting for 80% of total broiler production within the Southern African Development Community. However, the industry faces challenges such as high input costs, particularly feed, and lack of domestically produced ingredients. To maximize broiler performance, producers should improve feed efficiency, which is crucial for profitability and long-term viability. Factors affecting feed efficiency include energy level of feed, temperature in the house, litter quality, feed wastage, and disease presence. Optimal growth performance is crucial, as it directly impacts the time it takes to bring products to market and the overall quality of the final product. This study was to compare broiler performance under small scale production between fan exhaust houses and open-sided, naturally ventilated houses. The research aimed at determining the effects of stocking density and housing type on broiler performance, welfare, and economic implications. High stocking density is a strategy used by broiler farmers to maximize floor space, but it can have adverse effects on chickens, including lower growth rates, feed intake, and feed efficiency. High stocking densities can lead to diseases, increased litter moisture, higher temperatures, and increased competition for feed, affecting broiler growth. Lower stocking densities result in reduced oxidative stress and better growth performance. Broiler houses are essential for optimal feed intake and feed efficiency in poultry farming. Natural ventilation systems, which control airflow and temperature, are common in small-scale productions, while mechanical ventilation systems require efficient fans. The choice of housing system and design significantly impacts the welfare and productivity of broilers. Stocking density and housing type significantly impact animal well-being and performance. The economic implications of stockin…
abstract: The poultry industry in South Africa is a significant contributor to the agricultural sector, with broiler production accounting for 80% of total broiler production within the Southern African Development Community. However, the industry faces challenges such as high input costs, particularly feed, and lack of domestically produced ingredients. To maximize broiler performance, producers should improve feed efficiency, which is crucial for profitability and long-term viability. Factors affecting feed efficiency include energy level of feed, temperature in the house, litter quality, feed wastage, and disease presence. Optimal growth performance is crucial, as it directly impacts the time it takes to bring products to market and the overall quality of the final product. This study was to compare broiler performance under small scale production between fan exhaust houses and open-sided, naturally ventilated houses. The research aimed at determining the effects of stocking density and housing type on broiler performance, welfare, and economic implications. High stocking density is a strategy used by broiler farmers to maximize floor space, but it can have adverse effects on chickens, including lower growth rates, feed intake, and feed efficiency. High stocking densities can lead to diseases, increased litter moisture, higher temperatures, and increased competition for feed, affecting broiler growth. Lower stocking densities result in reduced oxidative stress and better growth performance. Broiler houses are essential for optimal feed intake and feed efficiency in poultry farming. Natural ventilation systems, which control airflow and temperature, are common in small-scale productions, while mechanical ventilation systems require efficient fans. The choice of housing system and design significantly impacts the welfare and productivity of broilers. Stocking density and housing type significantly impact animal well-being and performance. The economic implications of stockin…
author: Netshipale, Fhulufhelo
language: en
keywords: Stocking density, Housing type, Feed efficiency, Feed intake, Broiler performance, UCTD
date published: 2025-09-05
date modified: 2026-07-27T21:57:24Z
provider: University of Venda
publisher: Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations
type: WebPage
source organization: University of Venda