Market Broiler Management Practice Test

Lighting programs designed to prevent excessive growth in broilers during certain days help reduce mortality due to which of the following issues?

1. Sudden death

2. Leg problems and spiking mortality

3. Ascites

4. All choices are correct

The correct answer is: All choices are correct

Implementing lighting programs for broilers is crucial in managing their growth rate and overall health. By controlling the amount of light these birds receive, producers can influence their feeding and activity patterns, which in turn affects their growth dynamics. Preventing excessive growth is particularly important to reduce the risk of leg problems and spiking mortality. Rapid weight gain can place stress on the developing leg muscles and bones, leading to issues such as leg weakness or lameness. These physical problems increase the likelihood of injury, which can contribute to higher mortality rates. Furthermore, sudden death syndrome, often associated with rapid growth, is another concern. Excessive growth can lead to cardiovascular issues, causing sudden death in broilers without prior visible health problems. Ascites, a condition where fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity, is also linked to rapid growth. This condition can result from the increased metabolic demands of fast-growing birds, which can strain their cardiovascular systems and lead to high mortality rates. Given these factors, a well-structured lighting program that moderates growth rates can lead to healthier broilers with lower incidences of leg problems, sudden death, and ascites, thereby reducing overall mortality. Therefore, the correct choice reflects the comprehensive benefits of such programs in broiler management.