Effect of Growth Restriction on Reproductive Performance of Turkeys

INTRODUCTION CONSIDERABLE evidence supports the view that the longevity of animals is increased by limiting feed intake during growth to an amount less than necessary for normal growth (Comfort, 1960). In rats, restricted intake led to decreased body size and fat deposition and increased health and fertility (Berg, 1960). Restriction was also found to increase life span and delay the onset of disease (Berg and Simms, 1960). The restriction in this case was to 54% of the control rats fed ad libitum. Ross (1961) fed rats a low protein high carbohydrate diet ad libitum. This resulted in a decreased total intake and an increased life span. However, he also found that restricting intake of protein, carbohydrate and total calories led to the greatest beneficial effects in life. A brief review of the literature by Gowe et al. (1960) cites the beneficial effects of feed restriction on reproduction and longevity for . . .