Determination of productive parameters in Rhode Island chickens during their growth phase on two diets

Abstract

The raising of poultry in family settings is a widespread practice in Mexico's production units. This activity stands out for its ability to operate with minimal resources and for the contribution of family labor in the care and management of the animals. The study aimed to analyze the performance parameters of Rhode Island Red chickens within an alternative poultry production approach. The study was conducted at the experimental poultry unit of the Universidad Interserrana del Estado de Puebla-Ahuacatlán. A total of 50 chickens were randomly distributed among three treatments: control, commercial feed, and backyard feeding. Productive parameters measured included body weight gain, feed consumption, and feed conversion in growing layer chickens. Results showed that the commercial feed treatment achieved better feed consumption during the growth phase (1,690.98 g). However, the backyard feeding treatment showed better feed conversion (1.80) and weight gain (795.45 g). It was concluded that including legume residues in the diet improves production indicators and represents a sustainable alternative for poultry growth.