Dr. Gabrielle House, Poultry Scientist at Signify, presented on gradient lighting during the 2024 IPPE Tradeshow. If you happened to miss the show, you can review her presentation below.
- Want to learn more about gradient lighting? Explore additional science and research here.
- If you'd like to learn about Optient, the new gradient lighting solution transforming the industry, learn more here.
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Illuminating Broiler Welfare: The Innovation of Gradient Lighting in Poultry Farming
Introduction
In the dynamic world of poultry farming, a revolutionary concept is taking flight – gradient lighting designed to enhance the well-being and performance of broilers. Before we delve into the details of this innovation, it's crucial to understand core principles that guide the development of species-specific lighting solutions for poultry.
Understanding Broiler Light Perception
Poultry, as prey animals, heavily rely on visual cues to understand their surroundings. Broilers possess tetrachromatic vision, making them sensitive to red, green, blue, and ultraviolet-A (UV-A) portions of the light spectrum. This unique visual system emphasizes the need for lighting solutions tailored to the nuanced visual perception of broilers.
Artificial Lighting Inspired by Nature and Science
In the pursuit of improving broiler performance and welfare, artificial lighting can serve as an environmental enrichment tool. Drawing inspiration from both nature and science, researchers explore the use of non-homogenous lighting to mimic the varied lighting environments found in the wild.
Inspiration from Nature
Observing the habitat of the Red Jungle Fowl, the wild predecessor of domestic chickens, provides insights into non-uniform lighting distribution. Unlike the uniform lighting conditions in modern broiler houses, the wild environment features areas of dim, shaded lighting interspersed with bright light filtering through the tree canopy.
Inspiration from Science
Research indicates that broilers exhibit preferences for different light intensities based on their activities. A recent study comparing traditional lighting with gradient lighting demonstrated significant benefits, including improved feed conversion ratio (FCR), enhanced welfare indicators, and reduced stress levels (Kang et al., 2023).
Commercializing a Gradient Lighting Solution
In response to industry demands, ONCE collaborated with a leading broiler producer to develop Optient, the first and only approved gradient lighting system. The design principles focused on easy installation, a 10:1 gradient over feeders, cost-effectiveness, minimized shadowing, and encouragement of natural bird behaviors.
Taking a Bird’s Eye View: The Design Evolution of Optient
Optient's design involved taking a bird's eye view on poultry lighting. Its low-profile design and specialized lens minimize shadowing, while a modular approach ensures flexibility in light spacing. The unique mounting system, made of ammonia-resistant plastics, allows for easy installation without the need for conduit or ladders.
Optient - A Game-Changing Gradient Lighting Solution
Optient stands out as a game-changing gradient lighting solution, offering a 4-point average reduction in FCR and improved broiler welfare. With trials expanding globally, Optient marks a significant step forward in the broiler industry, providing an innovative and sustainable approach to lighting solutions. As poultry farming enters a new era in lighting, Optient leads the way in promoting freedom of choice and optimal performance for broilers.
Want to learn more about Optient, gradient lighting, for your barn or operation? Let's connect!
