What Light Bulb for Broiler Chicken
The optimal light bulb for broiler chickens should balance energy efficiency, growth performance, and welfare. Based on the reviewed literature, LED bulbs (especially cool-white or full-spectrum) are the most recommended due to their superior technical-economic feasibility and positive impacts on production. Key considerations include:
1. Light Source
LEDs outperform incandescent and fluorescent bulbs in energy savings (up to 82.87% compared to incandescent) while maintaining or improving growth metrics like body weight and feed conversion ratio. They also reduce heat emission, avoiding thermal stress linked to incandescent bulbs.
Fluorescent lamps are a viable alternative for low-intensity requirements (5–20 lux) but are less energy-efficient than LEDs.
2. Light Color
Cool-white LEDs (6,065 K) enhance growth outcomes, with studies showing higher final body weights (+67.4 g) and improved muscle development compared to neutral-white (4,100 K).
Red or yellow LED lighting may support feeding behavior, though performance differences across colors are often negligible.
3. Light Intensity
5–20 lux is sufficient for feeding areas, with dimmer lighting (1–2 lux) acceptable in resting zones. Broilers prefer feeding under 20 lux but spend more time in darker regions for rest.
4. Practical Recommendations
Avoid incandescent bulbs, which increase energy costs and ambient temperature.
Ensure uniform light distribution to prevent behavioral stress and promote activity balance.
Use cool-white LED bulbs (6,065 K) at 5–20 lux intensity for feeding areas, combined with dimmer zones for resting. This setup optimizes growth efficiency, welfare, and energy savings while aligning with broilers' behavioral preferences.
5. Related Product
