Effects of 16L: 8D photoperiod on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat composition, and blood parameters of Pekin ducks

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a 16L: 8D photoperiod on growth performance, carcass characteristics, relative organ weight, meat composition, and blood parameters in Pekin ducks. A total of 120 (60 male and 60 female) ducklings were used in the research. Each sex group was randomly allocated into 2 photoperiod groups, 24L: 0D and 16L: 8D. Ducks reared under the 24L: 0D photoperiod had higher body weight gain (P < 0.001); feed intake (P < 0.001); percentage of breast, wings, and skin with subcutaneous fat percentage (P < 0.001); and abdominal fat (P < 0.05). Sex of ducks affected body weight gain (P < 0.05; P < 0.001) and feed intake (P < 0.05) at days 1-42, as well as ash of thigh meat (P < 0.001) and creatine kinase level (P < 0.05). The present study concluded that the body weight gain and carcass development of ducks reared under the 24L: 0D photoperiod was superior to those reared under the 16L: 8D photoperiod. A 24L: 0D photoperiod is recommended for growth and carcass development in intensive Pekin duck-rearing systems.