Broiler Growth Simulation

摘要

Broiler growth simulation computer models allow examination of the likely consequences of changes in mature size and bodyweight. Genetic selection for broiler traits of economic importance, with simultaneous attention to fitness characteristics, has caused major changes in broiler performance. These, in turn have lead to changes in the environmental and nutritional needs of the birds to achieve the greater genetic potential, without compromising their welfare. Commercial breeding companies continually have to identify the implications _of these changes, and the extent of the modifications that need to be made to optimise the balance between economic and other objectives. Some questions can be answered by specific trials, e.g. exploring nutritional responses, or responses to stocking density. However, trials are expensive and only cover one time point; of debatable value for a continually changing breed. Investment in research is therefore, better focused on understanding how the genotypes work, andthe correlated effects of the different selection criteria, than on point in time comparisons. Broiler growth simulation models allow examination of the likely consequences of changes in mature body size and growth rate, as well as identifying areas ofignorance, thus focusing research effort.