Research Note: Cup Versus Tray Excreta Collections in Metabolizable Energy Assays

Abstract

A cup-and-harness excreta collection device was compared with a traditional tray-type excreta collection method in an ME study. The AME and AMEn were determined for two different diets (12% CP, 3,160 kcal ME/kg, and 23% CP, 3,160 kcal/kg). Twenty-four broiler breeder males were used with methods and diets arranged in a 2 x 2 factorial design. A standard AME feeding and collection protocol was followed. There were no differences in any measured variables attributable to method of excreta collection. However, dietary differences were readily apparent with both methods. Data suggest less variability in collection-related variables for the cup collection procedure. Ease and rapidity of changing containers makes the cup collection method a viable alternative when large numbers of birds are involved. Excreta can be stored in the same containers in which it is collected. Additionally, contamination of excreta with feathers, feed, scale, and vomit are avoided.

Lack of Interactions Between Dietary Lysine or Strain Cross and Photoschedule for Male Broiler Performance and Carcass Yield ,

“…The BW of birds provided 23L was greater than those provided 14L after 7 d of age. High lysine increased BW at 28 and 41 to 55 d with significant improvements in BW within the 14L group at 28,41, and 55 d. This would indicate that added dietary lysine had a greater impact on weight gains of birds on restricted light than on birds raised on near-continuous light, particu- The AME n was measured using adult Single Comb White Leghorn roosters that were allowed a 2-h feeding period each day and complete excreta collection following the procedures outlined by Revington et al (1991).…”

Effect of Glutamic Acid on Broilers Given Submarginal Crude Protein with Adequate Essential Amino Acids Using Feeds High and Low in Potassium

“…Samples (~ 500 g per pen) were mixed, respective of treatment, to obtain a representative composite. The AME was evaluated using adult roosters by complete collection of excreta as described by Revington et al (1991). Feed moisture content was based on constant weight upon drying in a 110 C oven, and CP was measured on subsamples using the Kjeldahl procedure.…”

Assessment of excreta collection methods to estimate true metabolizable energy of waterfowl foods in wild ducks

“…An alternative to the traditional basin method was developed in the early 1980s and included capturing excreta in a specimen bag attached to individuals with an adjustable harness (Almeida and Baptista ). Since then, several researchers have improved this harness method for use in metabolizable energy trials with poultry (chickens, Revington et al ) and domestic ducks (Adeola et al ). The method by Revington et al () was successful for chickens but cumbersome for ducks because rigidity of the collection container prevented normal posture (Adeola et al ).…”

“…Since then, several researchers have improved this harness method for use in metabolizable energy trials with poultry (chickens, Revington et al ) and domestic ducks (Adeola et al ). The method by Revington et al () was successful for chickens but cumbersome for ducks because rigidity of the collection container prevented normal posture (Adeola et al ). Adeola et al () further refined the harness method for use on domestic ducks but sutured a baby bottle lid around the cloaca and collected excreta in a Whirl‐pak ® (Nasco, Fort Atkinson, WI, USA) specimen bag.…”