The Influence of the Mineral-Microbial Preparation on Ammonia Concentration and Productivity in Laying Hens Houses.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the biopreparation Deodoric^® on ammonia (NH₃) concentration, performance, and hygiene standards in laying hen (ROSS-308) production. Statistically significant differences in NH₃ concentration and the body weight of laying hens were observed between the control group (C) and the experimental group (E) where Deodoric^® was applied at the set dose. In the control group, an increase in NH₃ concentration could have contributed to the decrease in the body weight of laying hens, egg production, and % hen day egg production, whereas no such correlations were observed in the experimental group. A moderate linear correlation between NH₃ concentration vs. humidity (r = 0.68), air flow (r = 0.48) and weakly linear correlation between NH₃ concentration and age of birds (r = 0.27) was noted in group C. In group E, NH₃ concentration vs. temperature (r = 0.27) and humidity (r = 0.14) were weakly correlated. Statistical analysis of changes in the microbial counts isolated from manure revealed a significant decrease of mesophilic microorganisms on day 28 decrease of Campylobacter spp. days 14 and 84 in group E. However, for the entire experimental model no statistically significant changes in the number of Campylobacter spp. and mesophilic bacteria were found. The tested preparation did not cause changes in the microbial composition of tissue swabs. Deodoric^® contributes to animal welfare by reducing the ammonia concentrations in poultry houses. It is also recommended for use in poultry farms to improve animal health and performance and to generate benefits for producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]