<b>Effects of dietary calcium fractionation and limestone particle size on performance and egg quality of commercial laying hens</b> - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v28i2.645

Abstract

The performance and egg quality of 270 ISA Babcock layers, aged 40 weeks, fed diets with different calcium (Ca) levels and limestone particle size were evaluated. The experimental design was randomized in a 3x3 factorial scheme: Ca fractionation – g morning : g afternoon (2:2, 1:3 and 3:1) and limestone particle size (coarse, fine and blended) totalizing nine treatments with five replications of six hens each. Performance was not influenced by the treatments, except feed and Ca intakes. Hens fed with 3:3g Ca, in the morning or in the afternoon, had higher Ca and feed intake. However, there was no effect on daily total Ca intake. Egg specific gravity was improved when hens were fed with coarse and blended limestones. Results showed that Ca fractionation did not influence performance and egg shell quality. Egg specific gravity is improved when hens are fed with coarse and blended limestones.