DefinePK

Abstract

ABSTRACT The poultry industry artificially incubates eggs by providing all constituents of natural incubation except light. However, in the last decade, many studies have provided enough proof that photo-stimulation during incubation has a positive impact on embryonic traits. This study was planned to evaluate the impact of different intensities of dichromatic light [combination of Green (520 nm) and Red (630 nm) –GR monochromatic LEDs; Yellowish light (580 nm)] on embryonic index and hatching traits in commercial broilers and layers. For that purpose, 1000 eggs (500 of each genotype) were exposed to 0, 150, 250 and 350 lux of GR dichromatic light during the whole incubation period for 12 h a day. Each treatment was replicated five times having 25 eggs each, and moisture loss along with egg shell temperature was noted daily. Studies indicated that 250 and 350 lux have significantly enhanced embryonic growth from the 8th day of incubation. Similarly, 250 and 350 lux of GR lighting have significantly higher number of hatched chicks at 23 h before hatch-pull. Moreover, significantly higher hatchability percent (p = 0.0028), and decreased early and late embryonic mortality percent were found in broilers incubated under 250 lux. In chick quality parameters, heart weight percentage was higher in birds that were incubated in 250 lux lighting. It can be concluded that 250 lux of GR light during incubation can improve embryonic growth, hatch window, hatchability percent and chick quality.