Effect of different stocking rates and sex on the performance and uniformity of broilers

Abstract

This experiment was developed to compare the performance and uniformity of broilers chickens as related to sex and different stocking rates. 1800 one day Ross breed chicks were distributed in 36 boxes, on a completely randomized block design, 3x2 factorial, with 3 sex (male, female and mixed) and 2 stocking (10 and 15 birds/m²). There were six replications per treatment, with 40 or 60 birds per replication. The experimental ration was formulated with corn and soy bean meal. The results were taken weekly, and after 45 days the animals were slaughtered. The results showed an increase in weight, consumption food, food conversion and daily weight gain in the smaller stocking, with statistical significance (p<0,05) for: food consumption (all period) and food conversion (1-21 and 22-45 days). However, the increase in stocking showed better values in viability and uniformity. With regard the sex, better values were seen for males, with statistical significance (p<0,05) for weight (21 and 45 days), food consumption(22-45 and 1-45 days), food conversion (1-45 days) and daily weight gain.