Optimizing Reproductive Output From Female Broiler Breeders

taken were body weight gain (BWG), gain to feed ratio (GF) and percent of foot ash (FA) at 4, 8, and 15 d of age. A significant linear response (P<0.05) was observed in growth performance and FA in birds receiving graded levels of PP at all ages, confirming the sensitivity of the procedure. No significant differences were found in FA percent between groups receiving TP or DP at all ages (13.5 vs 13.3% at 4 and 8 d, and 14.5 vs 14.3% at 15 d, respectively). As expected, the group receiving the RP had significantly reduced BWG, GF and FA percent (11.5, 10.5 and 12.9% at 4, 8 and 15 d, respectively), confirming the ability of the assay to detect low phosphorus availability. Results of this research did not demonstrate evidence of a reduced bioavailability of TP for chicks at 4, 8 or 15 d of age, suggesting this ingredient can successfully be employed in pre-starter diets for broilers.