The protein requirements of Australian white turkeys from hatching to twelve weeks

Abstract

One experiment from hatching to six weeks and two from six to twelve weeks were carried out to determine the protein requirement for maximum growth and feed efficiency of Australian white poults. The results were compared with the present recommended levels. Male, female, and unsexed poults that were fed a protein level of 32 per cent were significantly heavier at six weeks old than those fed either 24 or 28 per cent protein (males P<0.01 ; females and unsexed poults P<0.001). Efficiency of feed conversion was not significantly affected by any of these protein levels. From six to twelve weeks, 21 per cent protein was necessary for maximum growth of unsexed and male poults, but 19 per cent protein was adequate for female poults. Efficiency of feed conversion at 21 per cent was greater than at 17 or 19 per cent and equal to that at 25 or 27 per cent.