Market Broiler Management Practice Test

What impact does high ammonia levels have on broiler health?

1. Improves respiratory function

2. Causes respiratory stress

3. Enhances growth rate

4. Increases feed intake

The correct answer is: Causes respiratory stress

High ammonia levels in the environment can significantly impact the health of broilers, particularly affecting their respiratory systems. The presence of ammonia, a colorless gas that is a byproduct of manure decomposition, can lead to respiratory stress in poultry. This stress occurs because ammonia can irritate the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, leading to inflammation and discomfort for the birds. When broilers are exposed to elevated ammonia concentrations, they may experience difficulty in breathing, coughing, and increased susceptibility to respiratory diseases. This is particularly concerning for broilers, as their health and performance are directly linked to their respiratory function. Proper ventilation and management practices are crucial in minimizing ammonia levels within broiler houses to ensure the birds remain healthy and productive. The other options suggest beneficial effects or improvements in growth and feed intake, which do not align with the established understanding of the detrimental health effects caused by high ammonia exposure. In fact, compromised respiratory health can lead to reduced growth rates and lower feed efficiency as broilers are not able to convert feed into growth effectively when they are stressed or ill.