Prevalence of endoparasites by microscopic analysis in free-range chickens in a Brazilian semiarid region / Prevalência de endoparasitos por análises microscópicas em galinhas de fundo de quintal em região semiárida do Brasil

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and diversity of endoparasitic fauna and the risk factors associated with parasite infections in free-range chickens in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Ten municipalities were visited and, in each of them, ten farms, to collect animal feces and apply epidemiological questionnaires. Feces from 417 poultry were used to perform EPG (eggs per gram) and OoPG (oocysts per gram) tests. Prevalences of 40.52% (169/417) and 39.08% (163/417) were observed for nematodes and coccidia, respectively. In 17% (71/417), mixed infections by nematodes and coccidia were observed. Nematodes of Heterakoidea superfamily were present in 100% of the positive samples (169/169), followed by Trichuris spp. (57.3%; 97/169). All the protozoan oocysts observed belonged to the genus Eimeria (100%; 163/163). The variable of presence of drooping wings was considered to be a factor associated with infection by coccidia (odds ratio = 5.412; confidence interval: 1.179-24.848; p = 0.030). It was concluded that there is high prevalence of nematodes and coccidia in free-range chickens in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Better sanitary management measures, with greater hygiene of facilities, together with chemical control of parasites, can improve productivity by reducing the rate of gastrointestinal parasites.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a prevalência e diversidade da fauna endoparasitária, e os fatores de risco associados às infecções em galinhas de fundo de quintal no Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Dez municípios foram visitados e, em cada um, dez fazendas, para coletar fezes e aplicar um questionário epidemiológico. Fezes de 417 aves foram utilizadas para a realização de testes de OPG (ovos por grama) e OoPG (oocistos por grama). Prevalências de 40,52% (169/417) e 39,08% (163/417) foram observadas para nematoides e coccídios, respectivamente. Em 17% (71/417), infecções mistas por nematoides e coccídios foram observadas. Nematoides da superfamília Heterakoidea estavam presentes em 100% das amostras positivas (169/169), seguidos por Trichuris spp. (57,3%; 97/169). Todos os oocistos de protozoários observados pertenceram ao gênero Eimeria (100%; 163/163). A variável de presença de asas caídas foi considerada como fator associado à infecção por coccídios (odds ratio= 5,412; interval de confiança: 1,179-24,848; p = 0,030). Concluiu-se que é alta a prevalência de nematoides e coccídios em galinhas de fundo de quintal no Estado da Paraíba. Melhorias nas medidas de manejo sanitário, com maior higiene das instalações, associados a um controle químico de parasitos, podem melhorar a produtividade pela redução das taxas de parasitismo gastrointestinal.(AU)

Surto de botulismo tipo C em aves de subsistência em Santa Catarina, Brasil / Outbreak of type C botulism in backyard poultry in Santa Catarina, Brazil

Background: Botulism is a disease caused by the ingestion of neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, characterizedby flaccid paralysis, which can lead to high mortality. They have seven types of neurotoxins (A, B, C, D, E, F, and G) and,in birds, most cases are attributed to type C. They are considered sources of botulinum toxins where the decomposition oforganic matter occurs, like stagnant water and rotting food. The main feature of the disease in birds is ascending symmetricflaccid paralysis. The present study aims to describe an outbreak of type C botulism in backyard poultry in the state ofSanta Catarina, Southern Brazil.Case: A visit was made to the property with 160 backyard poultry with a history of high mortality in the municipality ofAgrolândia, Santa Catarina. Clinical signs were characterized by paralysis of the pelvic limbs, neck and pendular wings,which progressed to death within 48 h. There was a mortality rate of 37.5% (60/160) between March and May 2019. Thesebirds were kept in an overcrowded environment, with different species (chickens, ducks, teals, and turkeys) fed irregularly.The water supplied was provided from kitchen exhaust, accumulating in puddles on the floor that contained organic matterresidues such as animal feces, food waste and bone fragments. The disposal of the carcasses of birds that died was in thesame enclosure, buried superficially, facilitating the access of other birds to dig them up and consume them. Necropsywas performed on 2 chickens and one duck, no macroscopic or histopathological lesions were observed. Blood, liver, andgastrointestinal content samples were sent for research and identification of botulinum toxin through the serum neutralization test in mice. The presence of type C botulinum toxin was confirmed in the liver chicken of one sampled animals.Discussion: The identification of type C botulism toxin enabled the characterization of the outbreak, which is...

Surto de botulismo tipo C em aves de subsistência em Santa Catarina, Brasil / Outbreak of type C botulism in backyard poultry in Santa Catarina, Brazil

Background: Botulism is a disease caused by the ingestion of neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, characterizedby flaccid paralysis, which can lead to high mortality. They have seven types of neurotoxins (A, B, C, D, E, F, and G) and,in birds, most cases are attributed to type C. They are considered sources of botulinum toxins where the decomposition oforganic matter occurs, like stagnant water and rotting food. The main feature of the disease in birds is ascending symmetricflaccid paralysis. The present study aims to describe an outbreak of type C botulism in backyard poultry in the state ofSanta Catarina, Southern Brazil.Case: A visit was made to the property with 160 backyard poultry with a history of high mortality in the municipality ofAgrolândia, Santa Catarina. Clinical signs were characterized by paralysis of the pelvic limbs, neck and pendular wings,which progressed to death within 48 h. There was a mortality rate of 37.5% (60/160) between March and May 2019. Thesebirds were kept in an overcrowded environment, with different species (chickens, ducks, teals, and turkeys) fed irregularly.The water supplied was provided from kitchen exhaust, accumulating in puddles on the floor that contained organic matterresidues such as animal feces, food waste and bone fragments. The disposal of the carcasses of birds that died was in thesame enclosure, buried superficially, facilitating the access of other birds to dig them up and consume them. Necropsywas performed on 2 chickens and one duck, no macroscopic or histopathological lesions were observed. Blood, liver, andgastrointestinal content samples were sent for research and identification of botulinum toxin through the serum neutralization test in mice. The presence of type C botulinum toxin was confirmed in the liver chicken of one sampled animals.Discussion: The identification of type C botulism toxin enabled the characterization of the outbreak, which is...(AU)

Identification and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella enterica isolated from live birds at commercial resellers / Identificação e resistência a antimicrobianos de Salmonella enterica isoladas de aves vivas em revendas comerciais

The objective of this study was to investigate the sanitary and management characteristics of live-bird resellers as well as identify and undertake an antigenic characterization of Salmonella enterica and its sensitivity to antimicrobials. Structured questionnaires were applied and 627 samples were collected from the cages, consisting 209 samples of excreta, 209 of feed and 209 drinker swabs. These were processed by conventional bacteriology. The obtained isolates were subjected to the susceptibility test and to 12 antimicrobial tests by the disk diffusion method. Of the studied resellers, 91.7% house Gallus gallus domesticus, together with other animal species; sell birds with little zoosanitary documentation; have unsatisfactory active surveillance; and use and sell antimicrobials indiscriminately. The presence of Salmonella enterica was detected in 1.4% (9/627) of the samples analyzed in the cages, with 1.9% (4/209) found in excreta, 0.95% (2/209) in feed and in 1.4% (3/209) in drinker swabs. These were characterized antigenically as Salmonella Heidelberg, Gallinarum, Risen, Ndolo, Saint Paul, Mbandaka and subsp enterica O:6,7. When susceptibility to antimicrobials was determined, 44.4% resistance (4/9) was detected for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 33.3% (3/9) for enrofloxacin, 22.2% (2/9) for ciprofloxacin, ceftiofur and amoxicillin and 11.1% (1/9) for tetracycline and fosfomycin. Salmonella Heidelberg, as well as serovars Gallinarum, Risen, Saint Paul and Mbandaka, showed resistance to at least one of the tested antimicrobials. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and enrofloxacin were the antimicrobials that showed the least efficacy. Serovars such as Heidelberg, Gallinarum and Mbandaka have multiresistance to antimicrobials commonly used in human and veterinary medicine, implying potential risks to One Health.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho investigar as características sanitárias e de manejo das revendas de aves vivas, bem como a identificação e caracterização antigênica de Salmonella enterica e sua sensibilidade a antimicrobianos. Foram aplicados questionários estruturados, além de 627 amostras coletadas nas gaiolas, sendo 209 de excretas, 209 de ração e 209 suabes de bebedouros. Essas amostras foram processadas por bacteriologia convencional. Os isolados obtidos foram submetidos ao teste de suscetibilidade e a 12 antimicrobianos pelo método de difusão em disco. Verificou-se que 91,7% das revendas estudadas alojam Gallus gallus domesticus juntamente a outras espécies animais, comercializam aves com escassa documentação zoosanitária, a vigilância ativa é insatisfatória e utilizam e comercializam antimicrobianos de forma indiscriminada. Detectou-se a presença da Salmonella enterica em 1,4% (9/627) das amostras analisadas nas gaiolas, sendo 1,9% (4/209) em excretas, 0,95% (2/209) em ração e em 1,4% (3/209) em suabes de bebedouros, as quais foram caracterizadas, antigenicamente, como Salmonella Heidelberg, Gallinarum, Risen, Ndolo, Saint Paul, Mbandaka e subesp enterica O:6,7. Na determinação da suscetibilidade aos antimicrobianos, obteve-se resistência de 44,4% (4/9) para Trimetoprim-sulfametoxazol, 33,3% (3/9) para enrofloxacina, 22,2% (2/9) para ciprofloxacina, ceftiofur, amoxicilina e 11,1% (1/9) para tetraciclina e fosfomicina. Salmonella Heidelberg, além dos sorovares Gallinarum, Risen, Saint Paul e Mbandaka, todos mostraram resistência a pelo menos um dos antimicrobianos testados. Trimetoprim-sulfametoxazol e enrofloxacina foram os antimicrobianos que apresentaram menor eficácia. Sorovares como Heidelberg, Gallinarum e Mbandaka apresentam multirresistência aos antimicrobianos de uso comum em medicina humana e veterinária, o que implica em riscos potenciais para saúde única.

Identification and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella enterica isolated from live birds at commercial resellers / Identificação e resistência a antimicrobianos de Salmonella enterica isoladas de aves vivas em revendas comerciais

The objective of this study was to investigate the sanitary and management characteristics of live-bird resellers as well as identify and undertake an antigenic characterization of Salmonella enterica and its sensitivity to antimicrobials. Structured questionnaires were applied and 627 samples were collected from the cages, consisting 209 samples of excreta, 209 of feed and 209 drinker swabs. These were processed by conventional bacteriology. The obtained isolates were subjected to the susceptibility test and to 12 antimicrobial tests by the disk diffusion method. Of the studied resellers, 91.7% house Gallus gallus domesticus, together with other animal species; sell birds with little zoosanitary documentation; have unsatisfactory active surveillance; and use and sell antimicrobials indiscriminately. The presence of Salmonella enterica was detected in 1.4% (9/627) of the samples analyzed in the cages, with 1.9% (4/209) found in excreta, 0.95% (2/209) in feed and in 1.4% (3/209) in drinker swabs. These were characterized antigenically as Salmonella Heidelberg, Gallinarum, Risen, Ndolo, Saint Paul, Mbandaka and subsp enterica O:6,7. When susceptibility to antimicrobials was determined, 44.4% resistance (4/9) was detected for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 33.3% (3/9) for enrofloxacin, 22.2% (2/9) for ciprofloxacin, ceftiofur and amoxicillin and 11.1% (1/9) for tetracycline and fosfomycin. Salmonella Heidelberg, as well as serovars Gallinarum, Risen, Saint Paul and Mbandaka, showed resistance to at least one of the tested antimicrobials. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and enrofloxacin were the antimicrobials that showed the least efficacy. Serovars such as Heidelberg, Gallinarum and Mbandaka have multiresistance to antimicrobials commonly used in human and veterinary medicine, implying potential risks to One Health.(AU)

Objetivou-se com este trabalho investigar as características sanitárias e de manejo das revendas de aves vivas, bem como a identificação e caracterização antigênica de Salmonella enterica e sua sensibilidade a antimicrobianos. Foram aplicados questionários estruturados, além de 627 amostras coletadas nas gaiolas, sendo 209 de excretas, 209 de ração e 209 suabes de bebedouros. Essas amostras foram processadas por bacteriologia convencional. Os isolados obtidos foram submetidos ao teste de suscetibilidade e a 12 antimicrobianos pelo método de difusão em disco. Verificou-se que 91,7% das revendas estudadas alojam Gallus gallus domesticus juntamente a outras espécies animais, comercializam aves com escassa documentação zoosanitária, a vigilância ativa é insatisfatória e utilizam e comercializam antimicrobianos de forma indiscriminada. Detectou-se a presença da Salmonella enterica em 1,4% (9/627) das amostras analisadas nas gaiolas, sendo 1,9% (4/209) em excretas, 0,95% (2/209) em ração e em 1,4% (3/209) em suabes de bebedouros, as quais foram caracterizadas, antigenicamente, como Salmonella Heidelberg, Gallinarum, Risen, Ndolo, Saint Paul, Mbandaka e subesp enterica O:6,7. Na determinação da suscetibilidade aos antimicrobianos, obteve-se resistência de 44,4% (4/9) para Trimetoprim-sulfametoxazol, 33,3% (3/9) para enrofloxacina, 22,2% (2/9) para ciprofloxacina, ceftiofur, amoxicilina e 11,1% (1/9) para tetraciclina e fosfomicina. Salmonella Heidelberg, além dos sorovares Gallinarum, Risen, Saint Paul e Mbandaka, todos mostraram resistência a pelo menos um dos antimicrobianos testados. Trimetoprim-sulfametoxazol e enrofloxacina foram os antimicrobianos que apresentaram menor eficácia. Sorovares como Heidelberg, Gallinarum e Mbandaka apresentam multirresistência aos antimicrobianos de uso comum em medicina humana e veterinária, o que implica em riscos potenciais para saúde única.(AU)

Atividade inseticida do Spinosad sobre Alphitobius diaperinus em fezes de poedeiras comerciais naturalmente infestadas / Insecticidal activity of Spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus in naturally infested excrements of commercial hens

Objetivou-se neste ensaio experimental avaliar a eficácia do Spinosad contra Alphitobius diaperinus desenvolvendo-se em fezes de galinhas poedeiras de ovos comerciais. Foi avaliada a presença de adultos e larvas de A. diaperinus, presentes no esterco localizado sob as gaiolas, nos dias 2 e 1, 1, 3, 6, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54 e 61 pós-tratamento. O Spinosad, na concentração de 250ppm, quando aplicado na dose de 0,126L/m2 mostrou-se ineficaz contra cascudinhos. As doses de 0,252L/m2 e de 0,504L/m2 (400ppm) mostraram-se igualmente eficazes contra adultos de cascudinhos até o 6ºDPT, atingindo percentuais de eficácia de 91,30% e 90,15%. Contra larvas de A. diaperinus, as diluições de 0,126L/m2 e de 0,252 L/m2 (Spinosad 400ppm) foram eficazes, respectivamente, até o 19ºDPT (96,71%) e 33ºDPT (85,70%). Período mais prolongado de eficácia contra A. diaperinus foi observado com Spinosad a 400ppm, na dose de 0,504L/m2: 19DPT (89,55%) para adultos e 54DPT (92,72%) para larvas, demonstrando o período ativo deste tratamento, confirmando a hipótese de que o Spinosad apresenta potencial inseticida para controle de infestações de A. diaperinus infestando em fezes de poedeiras comerciais, representando uma alternativa para programas sanitários avícolas que utilizem a rotação de princípios ativos como forma de mitigar a seleção de resistência nas populações do coleóptero.

The objective of this experimental trial was to evaluate the efficacy of Spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus developing in feces from laying hens of commercial eggs. The presence of adults and larvae of A. diaperinus, present in the manure located under the cages, on days –2 and –1, 1, 3, 6, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54 and 61 was evaluated after treatment. Spinosad, at a concentration of 250ppm, when applied at a dose of 0.126L / m2 was shown to be ineffective against “lesser mealworm”. The doses of 0.252L / m2 and 0.504L / m2 (400ppm) proved to be equally effective against adults of strawberries up to the 6th PDT, reaching efficacy percentages of 91.30% and 90.15%. Against A. diaperinus larvae, the dilutions of 0.126 L / m2 and 0.252 L / m2 (Spinosad - 400ppm) were effective, respectively, up to 19ºDPT (96.71%) and 33ºDPT (85.70%). The longest period of effectiveness against A. diaperinus was observed with Spinosad at 400ppm, at a dose of 0.504L / m2: 19DPT (89.55%) for adults and 54DPT (92.72%) for larvae, demonstrating the active period of this treatment, confirming the hypothesis that Spinosad has potential insecticide to control infestations of A. diaperinus infesting in commercial laying faeces, representing an alternative for poultry health programs that use the rotation of active ingredients as a way to mitigate the selection of resistance in populations of the coleoptera.

Atividade inseticida do Spinosad sobre Alphitobius diaperinus em fezes de poedeiras comerciais naturalmente infestadas / Insecticidal activity of Spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus in naturally infested excrements of commercial hens

Objetivou-se neste ensaio experimental avaliar a eficácia do Spinosad contra Alphitobius diaperinus desenvolvendo-se em fezes de galinhas poedeiras de ovos comerciais. Foi avaliada a presença de adultos e larvas de A. diaperinus, presentes no esterco localizado sob as gaiolas, nos dias 2 e 1, 1, 3, 6, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54 e 61 pós-tratamento. O Spinosad, na concentração de 250ppm, quando aplicado na dose de 0,126L/m2 mostrou-se ineficaz contra cascudinhos. As doses de 0,252L/m2 e de 0,504L/m2 (400ppm) mostraram-se igualmente eficazes contra adultos de cascudinhos até o 6ºDPT, atingindo percentuais de eficácia de 91,30% e 90,15%. Contra larvas de A. diaperinus, as diluições de 0,126L/m2 e de 0,252 L/m2 (Spinosad 400ppm) foram eficazes, respectivamente, até o 19ºDPT (96,71%) e 33ºDPT (85,70%). Período mais prolongado de eficácia contra A. diaperinus foi observado com Spinosad a 400ppm, na dose de 0,504L/m2: 19DPT (89,55%) para adultos e 54DPT (92,72%) para larvas, demonstrando o período ativo deste tratamento, confirmando a hipótese de que o Spinosad apresenta potencial inseticida para controle de infestações de A. diaperinus infestando em fezes de poedeiras comerciais, representando uma alternativa para programas sanitários avícolas que utilizem a rotação de princípios ativos como forma de mitigar a seleção de resistência nas populações do coleóptero.(AU)

The objective of this experimental trial was to evaluate the efficacy of Spinosad against Alphitobius diaperinus developing in feces from laying hens of commercial eggs. The presence of adults and larvae of A. diaperinus, present in the manure located under the cages, on days –2 and –1, 1, 3, 6, 12, 19, 26, 33, 40, 47, 54 and 61 was evaluated after treatment. Spinosad, at a concentration of 250ppm, when applied at a dose of 0.126L / m2 was shown to be ineffective against “lesser mealworm”. The doses of 0.252L / m2 and 0.504L / m2 (400ppm) proved to be equally effective against adults of strawberries up to the 6th PDT, reaching efficacy percentages of 91.30% and 90.15%. Against A. diaperinus larvae, the dilutions of 0.126 L / m2 and 0.252 L / m2 (Spinosad - 400ppm) were effective, respectively, up to 19ºDPT (96.71%) and 33ºDPT (85.70%). The longest period of effectiveness against A. diaperinus was observed with Spinosad at 400ppm, at a dose of 0.504L / m2: 19DPT (89.55%) for adults and 54DPT (92.72%) for larvae, demonstrating the active period of this treatment, confirming the hypothesis that Spinosad has potential insecticide to control infestations of A. diaperinus infesting in commercial laying faeces, representing an alternative for poultry health programs that use the rotation of active ingredients as a way to mitigate the selection of resistance in populations of the coleoptera.(AU)

Ocorrência de Ascaridia galli e Heterakis gallinarum em galinha-d’angola (Numida meleagris) no estado de Rondônia, Brasil / Occurrence of Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum in guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) in the state of Rondônia, Brazil

Background: Parasitic diseases are among the problems that most affect birds. The Ascaridia spp. is one of the genera which is responsible for the main infections, and the Ascaridia. galli is the most frequent species found in birds. The Ascaridia spp. egg is oval and present a smooth shell which could be mistaken with the Heterakis gallinarum eggs, once they are the most frequent parasites in birds. Therefore, this case report describes the occurrence of Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum in a guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) feces and gut. Case: In January 2017, rain season in northern Brazil, a visit was performed to a free range avian breeding property in the municipality of São Miguel do Guaporé in the state of Rondônia, Brazilian Amazonian Region. The property breeds two chicken species: Gallus gallus domesticus and Numida meleagris as well as one quail species. The problem was related to the guinea fowl breeding which was composed by 50 adults and 45 young birds about two or three weeks old. All 45 young guinea fowl were presenting various clinical signs, which included: yellowish catarrhal diarrhea, isolation, loss of appetite, body weight, ruffled feathers, drooping wings and sternal prominence. All animals that presented the clinical signs as ruffled feathers, drooping wings and sternal prominence died on an average of 24 h and the mortality was of 65.9% (29/45). Subsequently, a three-week old bird corpse was necropsied, and it was observed that its intestines presented a large

Ocorrência de Ascaridia galli e Heterakis gallinarum em galinha-dangola (Numida meleagris) no estado de Rondônia, Brasil / Occurrence of Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum in guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) in the state of Rondônia, Brazil

Background: Parasitic diseases are among the problems that most affect birds. The Ascaridia spp. is one of the genera which is responsible for the main infections, and the Ascaridia. galli is the most frequent species found in birds. The Ascaridia spp. egg is oval and present a smooth shell which could be mistaken with the Heterakis gallinarum eggs, once they are the most frequent parasites in birds. Therefore, this case report describes the occurrence of Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarum in a guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) feces and gut. Case: In January 2017, rain season in northern Brazil, a visit was performed to a free range avian breeding property in the municipality of São Miguel do Guaporé in the state of Rondônia, Brazilian Amazonian Region. The property breeds two chicken species: Gallus gallus domesticus and Numida meleagris as well as one quail species. The problem was related to the guinea fowl breeding which was composed by 50 adults and 45 young birds about two or three weeks old. All 45 young guinea fowl were presenting various clinical signs, which included: yellowish catarrhal diarrhea, isolation, loss of appetite, body weight, ruffled feathers, drooping wings and sternal prominence. All animals that presented the clinical signs as ruffled feathers, drooping wings and sternal prominence died on an average of 24 h and the mortality was of 65.9% (29/45). Subsequently, a three-week old bird corpse was necropsied, and it was observed that its intestines presented a large…(AU)

Phosphorus utilization in broilers fed with diets supplemented with different feed ingredients

A reliable determination of endogenous phosphorus (P) excretion is required to measure P utilization in chickens accurately. The objective of this study was to investigate phosphorus (P) retention in broilers fed diets formulated with different feed ingredients. Sixty-four 15-d old broiler chicks were fed diets in which part of the dietary P was provided from dicalcium phosphate, maize, barley or soybean. Level of supplementation of each ingredient was calculated to provide two levels of total P (4.5 or 5.0 g kg1 feed). Birds received a single injection of 3 MBq of 32P to determine endogenous P excretion using the isotope dilution technique. Four days after injection, blood and excreta were collected for analysis of inorganic and radioactive P. There were no differences among diets in total (p = 0.37) or endogenous (p = 0.65) P excretion or in P retention (p = 0.37) regardless of the supplemental feed material used in each diet. Daily P retention was increased (p = 0.004) as P intake increased, but the proportion of P ingested that was retained was not affected (p = 0.23) by the level of dietary P. The use of an isotopic tracer allows for accurate estimation of endogenous P in excreta, ranging from 0.24 to 0.42 mg P g1 dry matter intake. The retention of P in growing chickens was not changed when 10-20 % of total P was provided by maize, barley or soybean.

Phosphorus utilization in broilers fed with diets supplemented with different feed ingredients

A reliable determination of endogenous phosphorus (P) excretion is required to measure P utilization in chickens accurately. The objective of this study was to investigate phosphorus (P) retention in broilers fed diets formulated with different feed ingredients. Sixty-four 15-d old broiler chicks were fed diets in which part of the dietary P was provided from dicalcium phosphate, maize, barley or soybean. Level of supplementation of each ingredient was calculated to provide two levels of total P (4.5 or 5.0 g kg1 feed). Birds received a single injection of 3 MBq of 32P to determine endogenous P excretion using the isotope dilution technique. Four days after injection, blood and excreta were collected for analysis of inorganic and radioactive P. There were no differences among diets in total (p = 0.37) or endogenous (p = 0.65) P excretion or in P retention (p = 0.37) regardless of the supplemental feed material used in each diet. Daily P retention was increased (p = 0.004) as P intake increased, but the proportion of P ingested that was retained was not affected (p = 0.23) by the level of dietary P. The use of an isotopic tracer allows for accurate estimation of endogenous P in excreta, ranging from 0.24 to 0.42 mg P g1 dry matter intake. The retention of P in growing chickens was not changed when 10-20 % of total P was provided by maize, barley or soybean.(AU)

Sources of paratyphoid Salmonella in the production chain of broilers in the Northern mesoregion of Maranhão State, Brazil / Fontes de salmonelas paratíficas na cadeia produtiva de frangos de corte da mesorregião Norte do Estado do Maranhão, Brasil

Paratyphoid Salmonella significantly impacts modern poultry farming, because it is one of the main causes of foodborne diseases in the world. Efforts have been made by the government and poultry industry to reduce the existence of Salmonella in the entire poultry production chain through sanitary programs. The aim of this work was to investigate the occurrence of Salmonella spp. and its serovars in environmental sources of production, poultry, and carcasses slaughtered in an artisanal manner in the northern mesoregion of Maranhão State, Brazil. A total of 520 samples were collected, comprising drag swabs (n = 60), prope (n = 60), cecal feces (n = 60), feed of feeder (n = 60), and cloacal swabs (n = 100) of poultry sent for slaughter, and newly slaughtered carcasses (n = 180). The samples were subjected to culture and isolation of Salmonella spp. and serotyping. The occurrence of the genus Salmonella was 25.0% (15/60) in drag swabs, 16.6% (10/60) in prope, 1.7% (1/60) in cecal feces, absent (0/60) in the feed, 7% (7/100) in cloacal swabs, and 48.9% (88/180) in poultry carcasses. Fifteen Salmonella enterica serovars were identified in the samples, with the highest occurrence in the Schwarzengrund (28.09%; 34/121), Albany (19.83%; 24/121), Enteritidis (7.43%; 9/121), and Heidelberg (7.43%; 9/121). Salmonella ser. Schwarzengrund showed higher predominance in the poultry production chain, with greater isolation in carcass samples (34 isolates), while Salmonella ser. Enteritidis had the highest occurrence in the initial production chain. The results of our study indicate the need to implement sanitary control in farms for paratyphoid salmonella and that artisanal poultry slaughter can increase bacterial dissemination in the final product, representing a public health risk.

As salmonelas paratíficas causam grande impacto para avicultura moderna, por se tratar de uma das principais causas de doenças de origem alimentar no mundo. Há um esforço de órgãos governamentais e da indústria avícola em diminuir a presença da Salmonella em toda cadeia produtiva de aves, através de programas sanitários. O objetivo desse trabalho foi pesquisar a ocorrência da Salmonella spp. e seus sorovares em fontes ambientais de produção, em aves e em carcaças abatidas de forma artesanal na Mesorregião Norte do Estado do Maranhão, Brasil. Foram coletadas 240 amostras de suabe de arrasto, propé, fezes cecais e ração de comedouros, 100 amostras de suabes de cloaca de aves destinadas ao abate e 180 amostras de carcaças recém abatidas. As amostras foram submetidas a cultura e isolamento de Salmonella spp. e sorotipificação. A ocorrência do gênero Salmonella foi de 25,0% (15/60) em suabe de arrasto, 16,6% (10/60) de propé, 1,7% (1/60) em fezes cecais, ausência (0/60) em ração, 7% (7/100) de suabe cloacal e 48,9% (88/180) em carcaças de frango. Foram identificados 15 sorovares de Salmonella enterica nas amostras, sendo os de maior ocorrência: Schwarzengrund (28,09%; 34/121), Albany (19,83%; 24/121), Enteritidis (7,43%; 9/121) e Heidelberg (7,43%; 9/121). Salmonella ser. Schwarzengrund apresentou maior predominância na cadeia produtiva de aves, com maior isolamento em amostras de carcaça (34 isolados) enquanto Salmonella ser. Enteritidis teve maior ocorrência na cadeia inicial de produção. Os resultados encontrados indicam a necessidade de implementação do controle sanitário nas granjas para as salmonelas paratíficas e que o abate artesanal de aves pode aumentar a disseminação da bactéria no produto final, representando risco para saúde pública.

Sources of paratyphoid Salmonella in the production chain of broilers in the Northern mesoregion of Maranhão State, Brazil / Fontes de salmonelas paratíficas na cadeia produtiva de frangos de corte da mesorregião Norte do Estado do Maranhão, Brasil

Paratyphoid Salmonella significantly impacts modern poultry farming, because it is one of the main causes of foodborne diseases in the world. Efforts have been made by the government and poultry industry to reduce the existence of Salmonella in the entire poultry production chain through sanitary programs. The aim of this work was to investigate the occurrence of Salmonella spp. and its serovars in environmental sources of production, poultry, and carcasses slaughtered in an artisanal manner in the northern mesoregion of Maranhão State, Brazil. A total of 520 samples were collected, comprising drag swabs (n = 60), prope (n = 60), cecal feces (n = 60), feed of feeder (n = 60), and cloacal swabs (n = 100) of poultry sent for slaughter, and newly slaughtered carcasses (n = 180). The samples were subjected to culture and isolation of Salmonella spp. and serotyping. The occurrence of the genus Salmonella was 25.0% (15/60) in drag swabs, 16.6% (10/60) in prope, 1.7% (1/60) in cecal feces, absent (0/60) in the feed, 7% (7/100) in cloacal swabs, and 48.9% (88/180) in poultry carcasses. Fifteen Salmonella enterica serovars were identified in the samples, with the highest occurrence in the Schwarzengrund (28.09%; 34/121), Albany (19.83%; 24/121), Enteritidis (7.43%; 9/121), and Heidelberg (7.43%; 9/121). Salmonella ser. Schwarzengrund showed higher predominance in the poultry production chain, with greater isolation in carcass samples (34 isolates), while Salmonella ser. Enteritidis had the highest occurrence in the initial production chain. The results of our study indicate the need to implement sanitary control in farms for paratyphoid salmonella and that artisanal poultry slaughter can increase bacterial dissemination in the final product, representing a public health risk.(AU)

As salmonelas paratíficas causam grande impacto para avicultura moderna, por se tratar de uma das principais causas de doenças de origem alimentar no mundo. Há um esforço de órgãos governamentais e da indústria avícola em diminuir a presença da Salmonella em toda cadeia produtiva de aves, através de programas sanitários. O objetivo desse trabalho foi pesquisar a ocorrência da Salmonella spp. e seus sorovares em fontes ambientais de produção, em aves e em carcaças abatidas de forma artesanal na Mesorregião Norte do Estado do Maranhão, Brasil. Foram coletadas 240 amostras de suabe de arrasto, propé, fezes cecais e ração de comedouros, 100 amostras de suabes de cloaca de aves destinadas ao abate e 180 amostras de carcaças recém abatidas. As amostras foram submetidas a cultura e isolamento de Salmonella spp. e sorotipificação. A ocorrência do gênero Salmonella foi de 25,0% (15/60) em suabe de arrasto, 16,6% (10/60) de propé, 1,7% (1/60) em fezes cecais, ausência (0/60) em ração, 7% (7/100) de suabe cloacal e 48,9% (88/180) em carcaças de frango. Foram identificados 15 sorovares de Salmonella enterica nas amostras, sendo os de maior ocorrência: Schwarzengrund (28,09%; 34/121), Albany (19,83%; 24/121), Enteritidis (7,43%; 9/121) e Heidelberg (7,43%; 9/121). Salmonella ser. Schwarzengrund apresentou maior predominância na cadeia produtiva de aves, com maior isolamento em amostras de carcaça (34 isolados) enquanto Salmonella ser. Enteritidis teve maior ocorrência na cadeia inicial de produção. Os resultados encontrados indicam a necessidade de implementação do controle sanitário nas granjas para as salmonelas paratíficas e que o abate artesanal de aves pode aumentar a disseminação da bactéria no produto final, representando risco para saúde pública.(AU)

Evaluation of a Feed Plant Additive for Coocidiosis Control in Broilers Herbals for Coccidiosis Control

Coccidiosis negatively impacts health and productive performance in broilers. Anticoccidial resistance has prompted alternatives to prevent and control this disease. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate a plant feed additive consisting of Acacia concinna containing saponins (Peptasan®) and compare its effectiveness with salinomycin in terms of performance of broilers challenged with Eimeria. In the first experiment, 300 Ross chicks (1 day old) were randomly distributed into a negative (uninfected and untreated), and positive control group (infected and untreated), and three levels of dietary Peptasan® (500, 750 and 1000 ppm). In the second experiment, the same number of chicks were distributed in two control groups (negative and positive), two levels of Peptasan® (500 and 750 ppm) and one level of salinomycin (550 ppm). In both experiments chicks were challenged at day 21 of age with 100,000 oocysts of Eimeria acervulina, 50,000 oocysts of Eimeria maxima and 50,000 oocysts of Eimeria tenella. Dietary Peptasan® improved productive performance, reduced mortality and the number of oocysts in feces, as well as increased yellow pigmentation of the skin of challenged chickens. The plant feed additive Peptasan® containing Acacia concinna can be effectively used for preventing coccidiosis in broilers.(AU)

Diagnosis of Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira intermedia in hens and laying hens in the western region of Paraná through bacterial isolation and identification in qPCR

ABSTRACT: Bacteria of the genus Brachyspira can cause enteric diseases in poultry causing a decrease in productivity. The occurrence of this disease in chickens has already been verified in countries such as Australia, Italy, and the United States, but in Brazil, until now, epidemiological studies about Brachyspira sp. frequency were only carried out on pig farms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of bacteria of the genus Brachyspira sp. through isolation and confirmation of the species Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira intermedia using the qPCR technique. Samples from 110 hens aged from 35 to 82 weeks were collected, 40 were from commercial egg farms and 70 were from laying hens matrices. For the first evaluation, bacterial isolation was performed from the feces. Positive samples were submitted to qPCR to identify the three species proposed. Cecum fragments of the birds were collected and fixed in formaldehyde for histological evaluation and counting of goblet cells. Of the 110 samples, 48 characteristic isolates of Brachyspira (43.6%) were obtained and of these in qPCR 13 identified as B. hyodysenteriae (11.8%) and 5 all from the same farm as Brachyspira intermedia (4.5%), 2 samples were positive for both agents (1.8%) and 28 were not characterized by qPCR (25.5%). None histopathological lesions were observed in the chicken cecum and no significant statistical difference was noticed in the count of goblet cells of the positive hens. It can be evidenced by the occurrence of Brachyspira sp. in laying farms and hens in Brazil, with special relevance to Brachyspira intermedia that can be potentially pathogenic for these animals.

RESUMO: Bactérias do gênero Brachyspira podem ocasionar enfermidades entéricas em aves acarretando a queda de produtividade. A ocorrência desta enfermidade em galinhas já foi verificada em países como a Austrália, Itália e Estados Unidos, porém no Brasil, até o momento, trabalhos epidemiológicos sobre a frequencia de Brachyspira sp. só foram realizados em granjas de suínos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a presença de bactérias do gênero Brachyspira sp. através do isolamento e confirmação das espécies Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae e Brachyspira intermedia utilizando a técnica de qPCR. Foram coletadas amostras de 110 aves com idade entre 35 e 82 semanas, sendo 40 de granjas de postura comercial e 70 de granjas de matrizes de corte. Para avaliação primeiramente procedeu-se o isolamento bacteriano a partir das fezes. As amostras positivas foram submetidas a qPCR para identificação das três espécies propostas. Fragmentos de ceco das aves foram coletados e fixados em formol para avaliação histológica e contagem de células caliciformes. Das 110 amostras foram obtidos 48 isolamentos característicos de Brachyspira (43,6%) e destes na qPCR 13 identificadas como B. hyodysenteriae (11,8%) e 5 sendo todas da mesma granja (4,5%) como B. intermedia, 2 amostras foram positivas para ambos os agentes (1,8%) e 28 não foram caracterizadas através da qPCR (25,5%). Não foram observadas alterações histopatológicas no ceco e diferença estatística significativa na contagem de células caliciformes das aves positivas. Conclui-se que a Brachyspira sp. é frequente em granjas de poedeiras e matrizes de corte no Brasil, com especial relevância para a B. intermedia que possui potência patogênico para estas aves.

Evaluation of a Feed Plant Additive for Coocidiosis Control in Broilers Herbals for Coccidiosis Control

Coccidiosis negatively impacts health and productive performance in broilers. Anticoccidial resistance has prompted alternatives to prevent and control this disease. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate a plant feed additive consisting of Acacia concinna containing saponins (Peptasan®) and compare its effectiveness with salinomycin in terms of performance of broilers challenged with Eimeria. In the first experiment, 300 Ross chicks (1 day old) were randomly distributed into a negative (uninfected and untreated), and positive control group (infected and untreated), and three levels of dietary Peptasan® (500, 750 and 1000 ppm). In the second experiment, the same number of chicks were distributed in two control groups (negative and positive), two levels of Peptasan® (500 and 750 ppm) and one level of salinomycin (550 ppm). In both experiments chicks were challenged at day 21 of age with 100,000 oocysts of Eimeria acervulina, 50,000 oocysts of Eimeria maxima and 50,000 oocysts of Eimeria tenella. Dietary Peptasan® improved productive performance, reduced mortality and the number of oocysts in feces, as well as increased yellow pigmentation of the skin of challenged chickens. The plant feed additive Peptasan® containing Acacia concinna can be effectively used for preventing coccidiosis in broilers.

Diagnosis of Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira intermedia in hens and laying hens in the western region of Paraná through bacterial isolation and identification in qPCR / Diagnóstico de Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae e Brachyspira intermedia em aves de postura e matrizes de corte na região oeste do Paraná através do isolamento bacteriano e identificação na qPCR

Bacteria of the genus Brachyspira can cause enteric diseases in poultry causing a decrease in productivity. The occurrence of this disease in chickens has already been verified in countries such as Australia, Italy, and the United States, but in Brazil, until now, epidemiological studies about Brachyspira sp. frequency were only carried out on pig farms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of bacteria of the genus Brachyspira sp. through isolation and confirmation of the species Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira intermedia using the qPCR technique. Samples from 110 hens aged from 35 to 82 weeks were collected, 40 were from commercial egg farms and 70 were from laying hens matrices. For the first evaluation, bacterial isolation was performed from the feces. Positive samples were submitted to qPCR to identify the three species proposed. Cecum fragments of the birds were collected and fixed in formaldehyde for histological evaluation and counting of goblet cells. Of the 110 samples, 48 characteristic isolates of Brachyspira (43.6%) were obtained and of these in qPCR 13 identified as B. hyodysenteriae (11.8%) and 5 all from the same farm as Brachyspira intermedia (4.5%), 2 samples were positive for both agents (1.8%) and 28 were not characterized by qPCR (25.5%). None histopathological lesions were observed in the chicken cecum and no significant statistical difference was noticed in the count of goblet cells of the positive hens. It can be evidenced by the occurrence of Brachyspira sp. in laying farms and hens in Brazil, with special relevance to Brachyspira intermedia that can be potentially pathogenic for these animals.(AU)

Bactérias do gênero Brachyspira podem ocasionar enfermidades entéricas em aves acarretando a queda de produtividade. A ocorrência desta enfermidade em galinhas já foi verificada em países como a Austrália, Itália e Estados Unidos, porém no Brasil, até o momento, trabalhos epidemiológicos sobre a frequencia de Brachyspira sp. só foram realizados em granjas de suínos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a presença de bactérias do gênero Brachyspira sp. através do isolamento e confirmação das espécies Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae e Brachyspira intermedia utilizando a técnica de qPCR. Foram coletadas amostras de 110 aves com idade entre 35 e 82 semanas, sendo 40 de granjas de postura comercial e 70 de granjas de matrizes de corte. Para avaliação primeiramente procedeu-se o isolamento bacteriano a partir das fezes. As amostras positivas foram submetidas a qPCR para identificação das três espécies propostas. Fragmentos de ceco das aves foram coletados e fixados em formol para avaliação histológica e contagem de células caliciformes. Das 110 amostras foram obtidos 48 isolamentos característicos de Brachyspira (43,6%) e destes na qPCR 13 identificadas como B. hyodysenteriae (11,8%) e 5 sendo todas da mesma granja (4,5%) como B. intermedia, 2 amostras foram positivas para ambos os agentes (1,8%) e 28 não foram caracterizadas através da qPCR (25,5%). Não foram observadas alterações histopatológicas no ceco e diferença estatística significativa na contagem de células caliciformes das aves positivas. Conclui-se que a Brachyspira sp. é frequente em granjas de poedeiras e matrizes de corte no Brasil, com especial relevância para a B. intermedia que possui potência patogênico para estas aves.(AU)

Diagnosis of Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira intermedia in hens and laying hens in the western region of Paraná through bacterial isolation and identification in qPCR / Diagnóstico de Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae e Brachyspira intermedia em aves de postura e matrizes de corte na região oeste do Paraná através do isolamento bacteriano e identificação na qPCR

Bacteria of the genus Brachyspira can cause enteric diseases in poultry causing a decrease in productivity. The occurrence of this disease in chickens has already been verified in countries such as Australia, Italy, and the United States, but in Brazil, until now, epidemiological studies about Brachyspira sp. frequency were only carried out on pig farms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of bacteria of the genus Brachyspira sp. through isolation and confirmation of the species Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira intermedia using the qPCR technique. Samples from 110 hens aged from 35 to 82 weeks were collected, 40 were from commercial egg farms and 70 were from laying hens matrices. For the first evaluation, bacterial isolation was performed from the feces. Positive samples were submitted to qPCR to identify the three species proposed. Cecum fragments of the birds were collected and fixed in formaldehyde for histological evaluation and counting of goblet cells. Of the 110 samples, 48 characteristic isolates of Brachyspira (43.6%) were obtained and of these in qPCR 13 identified as B. hyodysenteriae (11.8%) and 5 all from the same farm as Brachyspira intermedia (4.5%), 2 samples were positive for both agents (1.8%) and 28 were not characterized by qPCR (25.5%). None histopathological lesions were observed in the chicken cecum and no significant statistical difference was noticed in the count of goblet cells of the positive hens. It can be evidenced by the occurrence of Brachyspira sp. in laying farms and hens in Brazil, with special relevance to Brachyspira intermedia that can be potentially pathogenic for these animals.(AU)

Bactérias do gênero Brachyspira podem ocasionar enfermidades entéricas em aves acarretando a queda de produtividade. A ocorrência desta enfermidade em galinhas já foi verificada em países como a Austrália, Itália e Estados Unidos, porém no Brasil, até o momento, trabalhos epidemiológicos sobre a frequencia de Brachyspira sp. só foram realizados em granjas de suínos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a presença de bactérias do gênero Brachyspira sp. através do isolamento e confirmação das espécies Brachyspira pilosicoli, Brachyspira hyodysenteriae e Brachyspira intermedia utilizando a técnica de qPCR. Foram coletadas amostras de 110 aves com idade entre 35 e 82 semanas, sendo 40 de granjas de postura comercial e 70 de granjas de matrizes de corte. Para avaliação primeiramente procedeu-se o isolamento bacteriano a partir das fezes. As amostras positivas foram submetidas a qPCR para identificação das três espécies propostas. Fragmentos de ceco das aves foram coletados e fixados em formol para avaliação histológica e contagem de células caliciformes. Das 110 amostras foram obtidos 48 isolamentos característicos de Brachyspira (43,6%) e destes na qPCR 13 identificadas como B. hyodysenteriae (11,8%) e 5 sendo todas da mesma granja (4,5%) como B. intermedia, 2 amostras foram positivas para ambos os agentes (1,8%) e 28 não foram caracterizadas através da qPCR (25,5%). Não foram observadas alterações histopatológicas no ceco e diferença estatística significativa na contagem de células caliciformes das aves positivas. Conclui-se que a Brachyspira sp. é frequente em granjas de poedeiras e matrizes de corte no Brasil, com especial relevância para a B. intermedia que possui potência patogênico para estas aves.(AU)

Metabolizable energy of rice bran, cottonseed meal and wheat bran for slow-growing broilers at two ages / Energia metabolizável dos farelos de arroz, algodão e trigo para frangos de crescimento lento em duas idades

The aim of this study was to evaluate bromatological composition and metabolizable energy values of cottonseed meal, rice meal, and wheat bran when provided to slow growth rate broilers at different ages. Energy values of 15- to 25- and 35- to 45-day-old broilers were determined by the total feces collection method using two digestibility bioassays. The birds were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design to evaluate the age effect, with six replicates of 10 chickens each, for each ingredient. Values of apparent metabolizable energy adjusted by nitrogen balance (kcal/kg), for the first and second ages were: 1,255 and 1,564 for cottonseed meal, 3,124 and 3,301 for rice meal, and, 2,211 and 2,383 for wheat bran, respectively. The ingredients showed some variations regarding chemical composition and energy values, which were higher (P < 0.05) in older broiler chickens.

O objetivo nesta pesquisa foi determinar a composição bromatológica e os valores de energia metabolizável para frangos de corte de crescimento lento em diferentes idades dos ingredientes: farelo de algodão, farelo de arroz e farelo de trigo. Para determinação dos valores energéticos foi utilizado o método de coleta total de excretas em dois ensaios de digestibilidade de 15 a 25 e de 35 a 45 dias de idade. As aves foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, avaliando o efeito da idade, com seis repetições constituídas de 10 aves, para cada ingrediente. Os valores de energia metabolizável aparente corrigida pelo balanço de nitrogênio (kcal/kg), para primeira e segunda idade respectivamente, foram: farelo de algodão, 1.255 e 1.564; farelo de arroz, 3.124 e 3.301; farelo de trigo, 2.211 e 2.383. Os alimentos apresentaram variação quanto a composição química, bem como o valor energético foi superior (P<0,05) para os frangos de maior idade.

Metabolizable energy of rice bran, cottonseed meal and wheat bran for slow-growing broilers at two ages / Energia metabolizável dos farelos de arroz, algodão e trigo para frangos de crescimento lento em duas idades

The aim of this study was to evaluate bromatological composition and metabolizable energy values of cottonseed meal, rice meal, and wheat bran when provided to slow growth rate broilers at different ages. Energy values of 15- to 25- and 35- to 45-day-old broilers were determined by the total feces collection method using two digestibility bioassays. The birds were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design to evaluate the age effect, with six replicates of 10 chickens each, for each ingredient. Values of apparent metabolizable energy adjusted by nitrogen balance (kcal/kg), for the first and second ages were: 1,255 and 1,564 for cottonseed meal, 3,124 and 3,301 for rice meal, and, 2,211 and 2,383 for wheat bran, respectively. The ingredients showed some variations regarding chemical composition and energy values, which were higher (P < 0.05) in older broiler chickens.(AU)

O objetivo nesta pesquisa foi determinar a composição bromatológica e os valores de energia metabolizável para frangos de corte de crescimento lento em diferentes idades dos ingredientes: farelo de algodão, farelo de arroz e farelo de trigo. Para determinação dos valores energéticos foi utilizado o método de coleta total de excretas em dois ensaios de digestibilidade de 15 a 25 e de 35 a 45 dias de idade. As aves foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, avaliando o efeito da idade, com seis repetições constituídas de 10 aves, para cada ingrediente. Os valores de energia metabolizável aparente corrigida pelo balanço de nitrogênio (kcal/kg), para primeira e segunda idade respectivamente, foram: farelo de algodão, 1.255 e 1.564; farelo de arroz, 3.124 e 3.301; farelo de trigo, 2.211 e 2.383. Os alimentos apresentaram variação quanto a composição química, bem como o valor energético foi superior (P<0,05) para os frangos de maior idade.(AU)