Work

Comparison of biochar and Poultry Litter Treatment (PLT) amendments on broiler litter quality and bird performance

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Broiler litter management is critical for overall bird health and performance. Poor litter conditions can result in increased ammonia (NH 3 ) volatilization and moisture, which negatively impact bird productivity and welfare. Poultry Litter Treatment® (PLT) is a litter amendment that has been applied to reduce ammonia (NH 3 ) volatilization; however, PLT does not address litter moisture content (MC). Biochar (BC) is a porous material with a high surface area that may absorb moisture and mitigate NH 3 volatilization. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of BC and PLT on MC, NH 3 volatilization, and broiler performance during a 42-day flock grow-out. Birds were reared in 1.52 m x 2.74 m pens containing used litter, feeders, and a drinker line. Water activity, pH, and nutrient content were also evaluated. PLT and BC were surface applied at 0.73 kg∙m -2 and 30 % (vol/vol). A control of non-amended litter was included. Litter samples were collected at d 0, 17, 29, and 41. NH 3 was measured on d 0, 14, 28, and 41. Litter treatment and grow-out time significantly impacted NH 3 volatilization and MC. Overall, PLT had the lowest NH 3 concentrations. On d 41, BC had the highest NH 3 (104 ppm). BC-treated litter had the lowest MC and highest NH 3 , while PLT-treated litter was lowest in NH 3 volatilization. Litter treatment had no effect on bird performance, indicating these amendments did not negatively affect bird performance. BC may promote lower MC; however, further research is needed to understand its effects on NH 3 volatilization.

Source: The Journal of Applied Poultry Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2024.100499