CPT Flock Management & Production Systems Flashcards

Which ventilation system uses positive pressure fans to push fresh air into the poultry house?

Answer: Positive pressure ventilation

Positive pressure systems use fans to force fresh air into the building, while negative pressure systems draw air out to create inflow through inlets.

What does FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio) measure in poultry production?

Answer: Pounds of feed consumed per pound of live weight gained

FCR is calculated by dividing total feed consumed by total weight gained, with lower values indicating better feed efficiency.

Which disease is caused by Marek's disease virus (MDV) and is a major concern for commercial poultry producers?

Answer: Lymphoma and nerve paralysis

Marek's disease causes T-cell lymphomas and peripheral nerve demyelination, leading to paralysis and is prevented through day-of-hatch vaccination.

What is the recommended relative humidity range inside a broiler house during the grow-out period?

Answer: 50-70%

Relative humidity between 50-70% helps maintain proper litter condition and bird respiratory health while preventing excessive dryness or dampness.

In layer hen production, what term describes the intentional cessation of egg laying followed by re-stimulation to begin a new laying cycle?

Answer: Forced molt

Forced molting is induced through feed withdrawal or dietary manipulation to reset the reproductive cycle and extend a flock's productive life.

What is the typical market age of a commercial broiler raised in the US?

Answer: 6-8 weeks

Modern commercial broilers reach market weight of 5-8 lbs in approximately 6-8 weeks due to genetic selection and optimized nutrition.