Effect of two brooding systems and four stocking densities on immune response and stress indicators of broiler chicks during the brooding period

This experiment investigated the effects of brooding system (BS) and stocking density (SD) on immune response 1-14-day-old broiler chicks. A 3672 one-day-old Cobb 500 chicks were raised in two BSs (conventional floor (CFBS) newly developed multi-tier closed (NDBS)) at four different SDs (30, 60, 90, 120 chicks/m2), resulting a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement. Immunity data lymphoid organ weights, maternal antibody titres to IBV, IBDV, NDV, stress indicators collected days 6 12. The results showed that CFBS NDBS had similar relative development chick organs (Bursa, spleen, thymus), durability humoral against maintenance normal levels indicators. Birds outperformed terms immunity IBV NDV. higher liver weight percentage than CFBS. Maternal immunity, weights %, glucose cholesterol concentrations not altered by SD. In contrast differences absolute (g) attributed live weights. An increase SD per area unit resulted an heterophils decrease lymphocyte ratio lymphocytes(H:L). conclusion, birds lower H:L ratios. Smarter systems are needed usher new era for poultry industry.HighlightsThe and/or accounted factors birds.Both increased IBDV.Smarter apply critical control point standard industry.As increased, decreased, increased.