Biotechnology Journal International

Broiler chickens require adequate feed intake and uninterrupted emission of heat for intensive growth. An eight-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of stocking density on performance, carcass yield and meat composition of broilers. A total of 240 one-day old Arbor acre broiler chicks were randomly allocated to three stocking densities: Lower stocking density (LSD) of 10 birds/m²; Recommended stocking density (RSD) of 12 birds/m²; and Higher stocking density (HSD) of 14 birds/m² respectively, with 4 replicates each having 20 birds per replicate. Feed and water were supplied ad libitum. Final live weight(FLW); Feed intake(FI); Feed conversion ratio(FCR); Mortality(%); Dressed weight(%); Prima cuts(%); Abdominal fat(%) and meat composition were assessed. Data were subjected to descriptive statistics and ANOVA ∞=0.05. Birds on HSD had numerically higher FLW (2262.80 g), better FCR (2.08) that was similar to that of LSD (2.07) and significantly lower mortality (0.00%). The values of the prime cuts (thigh, drumstick and breast), abdominal fat and meat protein were similar between birds on LSD and HSD. Up to stocking density 14birds/m² broiler chickens’ performance and carcass characteristics were not negatively affected.