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Effects of Different Target Trajectories on the Broiler Performance in Growth Control

Catholic University of Leuven, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Biosystems Department, Division Measure, Model & Manage Bioresponses: M3-BIORES, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium

¹ Corresponding author: daniel.berckmans{at}biw.kuleuven.be

Applying altered trajectories in broiler growth control with early feed restriction and a consequent accelerated catch-up growth has been approved to result in a better feed conversion ratio and a reduction in mortality. The properties of the growth trajectory and the resulting time and duration of the feed restriction can be crucial for animal welfare and production performance. The objective of this work was to test broiler growth control strategy online in field conditions using different target trajectories. Several experiments were conducted, and the best target trajectory has been proven to result in an end weight of 2,616 g and feed conversion ratio of 1.54 for Ross-type birds and an end weight of 2,472 g and a feed conversion ratio of 1.67 for Cobb-type birds.

Key Words: model-based control • broiler growth • growth trajectory