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Photorefractoriness in avian species – could this be eliminated in broiler breeders?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 November 2012

N.C. TYLER  and
R.M. GOUS
N.C. TYLER*
Affiliation:
University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa
R.M. GOUS
Affiliation:
University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa
*
Corresponding author: tyler@ukzn.ac.za
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Abstract

Photorefractoriness is a condition that was exhibited in all fowl before modern selection programmes were implemented. Expressed in its absolute biological form, it ensures that birds cannot hatch and then breed in the same season. This paper reviews the literature regarding the exhibition of photorefractoriness, within populations and between genders, in avian species. Photorefractoriness has been eliminated in commercial laying hens, and the possibility of selecting against this in broiler breeders is investigated, as it would result in increased egg output and fertility, especially in operations in which it is not possible to rear these birds on short (<10 h) days.

Keywords

responderlightingphotoresponsiveness
Type
Review Article
Information
World's Poultry Science Journal , Volume 68 , Issue 4 , December 2012 , pp. 645 - 650
Copyright
Copyright © World's Poultry Science Association 2012

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