The Effect of Fertile Egg Weight on Day-Old Chick Weight and Final Performance of Broiler Chickens: A Scientific Review

Abstract

Fertile egg weight is one of the key indicators in the success of the incubation process and broiler production. This review study examines the relationship between egg weight and day-old chick weight, as well as its implications for the final performance of broiler chickens. Based on existing research data, the weight of a day-old chick constitutes on average 65–70% of the egg weight, and an increase in initial chick weight has a direct impact on the growth and feed efficiency of broiler chickens. The results indicate that selecting eggs weighing 55–65 grams provides an optimal balance between chick quality and hatchability rate and can lead to an improvement of 40–50 grams in the final weight of broiler chickens for every one gram increase in day-old chick weight.

Introduction

Fertile eggs in breeder hen flocks, as the primary source of life for broiler chicks, play a fundamental role in determining the quality and initial weight of the chicks. The initial chick weight is considered a vital indicator for predicting the final performance of broiler chickens during the rearing period. The aim of this study is to review the existing scientific findings regarding the effect of fertile egg weight on day-old chick weight and the final performance of broiler chickens.
Materials and Methods (Review of Existing Studies)
The data in this article are derived from the analysis and review of published research in reputable journals, including Poultry Science, Journal of Applied Poultry Research, and industrial data. The parameters examined include egg weight (50–70 grams), day-old chick weight, and final broiler chicken weight.

Findings

Day-old chick weight and egg weight
The weight of a day-old chick is directly dependent on the egg weight and constitutes between 65 to 70 percent of the egg's weight.
Initial Growth and Production Performance
Heavier chicks show higher growth during the first week and have a lower feed conversion ratio. Each one-gram increase in initial chick weight results in a 40–50 gram increase in the final weight of broiler chickens.
Chick Quality and Hatchability
Smaller eggs (70 grams) have a lower hatchability rate.
The results indicate that selecting eggs with an optimal weight (55–65 grams) and proper management of the breeder flock can improve the economic performance of broiler farms. The importance of egg weight is evident not only in the initial chick weight but also in determining the overall chick quality (feather dryness, chick leg health, and yolk sac reserves). Additionally, the use of very small or very large eggs is not recommended due to their negative effects on chick quality and hatchability rate.

Conclusion

Fertile egg weight is a key factor in determining the weight and quality of day-old chicks and, ultimately, the economic performance of broiler chickens. Proper selection and management of egg weight are among the most important measures to improve productivity in the poultry industry.

منابع (نمونه)

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