Basic Production Parameters of Small Capacity Broiler Farms in the Region of Banja Luka

Abstract

This paper presents the basic production parameters of seven broiler farms with a capacity of 6,000 birds per round in the Banja Luka region, obtained by analysis of production records of 70 rounds, achieved in 2013-2014. Methods of descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance and correlation analysis were used. Average values of production parameters were as follows (M±SD): day-old chick weight 43.04±2.63 g; fattening duration 38.91±2.55 days; final chick weight 2.13±0.24 kg; feed conversion ratio 1.80±0.07; total mortality rate 4.07±1.95%, and European production efficiency factor 291.14±22.50. Significant differences were found for average total mortality rate among broiler farms and feed conversion ratio between production years (p<0.05). Fattening duration was in positive correlation with feed conversion ratio (0.76, p<0.01), final chick weight (0.90, p<0.01), but in negative with EPEF (-0.28, p<0.05). Comparable production performances could be related to uniform the technology and similar requirements of meat industry, although comprehensive research is suggested for reliable evaluation of broiler farm productivity in the Banja Luka region.