Maximizing the Utilization of the Male Breeder: A Review

INTRODUCTION Reproductive inefficiency is the most costly and limiting constraint to efficient production by food animals. Even though the reproductive capacity of poultry exceeds that of other farm animals, problems in reproduction still cause economic losses to the poultry breeding industries (Opel, 1979). For example, the average percent hatch of all turkey eggs set is approximately 74%. Also, the percent hatchability of broiler breeder eggs has declined 3% within the last 5 years (Smith, 1981). Reasons for the decline in reproductive performance generally have been attributed to genetic selection for growth, since reproductive traits and growth traits are genetically antagonistic entities (Tierce, 1980). Despite these failings, poultry production is expected to continue to increase because of worldwide consumer demand for an inexpensive source of protein. The per capita consumption for chicken and turkey is expected to increase 70% by the year 2,000 (Cunha, 1980). Thus, the challenge facing the poultry …