Effects of 16L : 8D photoperiod on growth performance, carcass characteristics,meat composition, and blood parameters of Pekin ducks

Authors : Evren ERDEM, Esin Ebru ONBAŞILAR, Özlem Gücüyener HACAN

Pages : 568-575

Doi:10.16971/vd.61404

View : 24 | Download : 12

Publication Date : 0000-00-00

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a 16L : 8D photoperiod on growth performance, carcass characteristics, relative organ weight, meat composition, and blood parameters in Pekin ducks. A total of 120 insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(60 male and 60 female); ducklings were used in the research. Each sex group was randomly allocated into 2 photoperiod groups, 24L : 0D and 16L : 8D. Ducks reared under the 24L : 0D photoperiod had higher body weight gain insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(P < 0.001);; feed intake insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(P < 0.001);; percentage of breast, wings, and skin with subcutaneous fat percentage insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(P < 0.001);; and abdominal fat insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(P < 0.05);. Sex of ducks affected body weight gain insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(P < 0.05; P < 0.001); and feed intake insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(P < 0.05); at days 1-42, as well as ash of thigh meat insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(P < 0.001); and creatine kinase level insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(P < 0.05);. The present study concluded that the body weight gain and carcass development of ducks reared under the 24L : 0D photoperiod was superior to those reared under the 16L : 8D photoperiod. A 24L : 0D photoperiod is recommended for growth and carcass development in intensive Pekin duck-rearing systems.
Keywords : Photoperiod, growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat composition, Pekin duck