Poultry farming – Breeds of Poultry for egg and meat, common diseases of poultry.

TRB POST GRADUATE LEVEL STUDY MATERIALS

UNIT: ENTOMOLOGY AND ECONOMIC ZOOLOGY

TOPIC: Poultry farming – Breeds of Poultry for egg and meat, common diseases of poultry.

This comprehensive study material delves into the critical aspects of poultry farming, designed for post-graduate level examinations such as the TRB. It covers the fundamental principles and practical applications necessary for a thorough understanding of the subject.

Breeds of Poultry:

A detailed exploration of various poultry breeds, categorized by their primary economic purpose:

A. Breeds for Egg Production (Layers):

Commercial White Leghorn: The most globally recognized breed for high egg production, known for its white eggs, early maturity, and excellent feed conversion ratio.
Rhode Island Red: A dual-purpose breed, but highly valued for its consistent production of brown eggs. Known for its hardiness and adaptability.
Plymouth Rock (Barred and White): Another excellent dual-purpose breed, producing brown eggs. The Barred Plymouth Rock is particularly distinctive in appearance.
Minorca: Renowned for producing large white eggs and a long laying period.
Ancona: A Mediterranean breed known for its prolificacy in laying white eggs and its active foraging nature.
Native/Indigenous Breeds (e.g., Aseel, Kadaknath, Naked Neck): Discussion on their unique characteristics, including adaptability to local conditions, disease resistance, and often, specific market niches for their eggs (e.g., Kadaknath eggs for their distinct color and perceived medicinal properties).

B. Breeds for Meat Production (Broilers):

Cobb 500: A widely used commercial broiler strain, known for its rapid growth rate, excellent feed conversion, and high meat yield.
Ross 308: Another leading commercial broiler strain, characterized by its efficient growth and consistent performance in various climates.
Cornish Cross: A hybrid developed specifically for meat production, known for its fast growth, large breast meat yield, and efficient feed conversion.
White Plymouth Rock: While also an egg layer, specific strains are bred for meat production due to their good conformation and meat quality.
Hubbard: A well-established broiler breeder known for its robust performance and adaptability.
Native/Indigenous Breeds (e.g., Aseel, Naked Neck): Evaluation of their slower growth but superior meat quality, texture, and often, higher market value in niche segments.

C. Dual-Purpose Breeds:

Detailed analysis of breeds like Rhode Island Red, Plymouth Rock, and Orpington, which are suitable for both egg and meat production, offering flexibility to farmers.

Common Diseases of Poultry:

A comprehensive overview of prevalent poultry diseases, focusing on their causative agents, clinical signs, transmission, prevention, and control measures. Understanding these diseases is paramount for maintaining flock health and productivity.

A. Viral Diseases:

Marek's Disease: A highly contagious viral neoplastic disease affecting chickens, causing tumors in various organs. Discussion on vaccination as a primary control measure.
Ranikhet Disease (Newcastle Disease): A highly virulent and fatal viral disease causing respiratory, nervous, and digestive signs. Emphasis on vaccination protocols and biosecurity.
Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro Disease): An immunosuppressive disease primarily affecting young chickens, leading to increased susceptibility to other infections. Vaccination strategies are crucial.
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu): A highly pathogenic viral disease with significant economic and public health implications. Discussion on different strains, symptoms, and biosecurity measures for prevention and control.
Fowl Pox: A viral disease causing characteristic wart-like lesions on unfeathered skin or diphtheritic lesions in the mouth and upper respiratory tract.

B. Bacterial Diseases:

Fowl Cholera (Pasteurellosis): An acute and often fatal bacterial disease affecting various avian species, causing septicaemia. Vaccination and proper sanitation are key.
Fowl Typhoid and Pullorum Disease (Salmonellosis): Caused by Salmonella bacteria, leading to high mortality in young chicks and economic losses in adults. Focus on testing and eradication programs.
Chronic Respiratory Disease (CRD) / Mycoplasmosis: Caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum, resulting in chronic respiratory signs, reduced egg production, and poor growth.
Colibacillosis: A common bacterial infection caused by Escherichia coli, leading to various manifestations like omphalitis, airsacculitis, and salpingitis.

C. Parasitic Diseases:

Coccidiosis: A highly prevalent protozoal disease affecting the intestinal tract, causing diarrhea, dehydration, and mortality, especially in young birds. Management through anticoccidial drugs and litter management.
Worms (Roundworms, Tapeworms, Capillary Worms): Internal parasites affecting nutrient absorption and overall bird health. Discussion on deworming protocols.
External Parasites (Mites, Lice, Ticks): Causes irritation, skin lesions, and reduced productivity. Control through dust baths, insecticides, and good hygiene.

D. Fungal Diseases:

Aspergillosis (Brooder Pneumonia): A respiratory fungal disease caused by Aspergillus fumigatus, often found in moldy litter.

E. Nutritional Deficiencies/Metabolic Disorders:

Rickets: Caused by calcium, phosphorus, or Vitamin D3 deficiency, leading to bone deformities.
Fatty Liver Hemorrhagic Syndrome: A metabolic disorder common in high-producing layers.
Vitamin Deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin A, E, B complex): Leading to various health issues and reduced productivity.

III. Disease Prevention and Biosecurity:

Emphasis on proactive measures to prevent disease outbreaks:

A. Biosecurity Protocols: Strict measures to prevent the introduction and spread of pathogens, including control of access, disinfection, and proper waste disposal.
B. Vaccination Programs: Tailoring vaccination schedules to specific diseases prevalent in the region and to the type of poultry operation.
C. Nutrition and Feed Management: Providing balanced diets to bolster immunity and support growth/production.
D. Environmental Control: Proper ventilation, temperature, and humidity management to reduce stress and pathogen load.
E. Litter Management: Maintaining dry and clean litter to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms.
F. Early Detection and Diagnosis: Importance of regular monitoring of flock health and prompt diagnosis for effective intervention.
G. Culling and Disposal: Humane and effective disposal of sick or dead birds to prevent disease spread.

This comprehensive study material aims to equip post-graduate students with the in-depth knowledge required to excel in their examinations and contribute effectively to the poultry industry.