Effects of Stocking Density on Growth Performance, Hematobiochemical Responses, Carcass Traits, and Economic Efficiency of Broilers Raised in Open-Sided Housing During Seasonal Heat Stress

This study assessed the impact of four stocking densities (14.35, 10.76, 8.61, and 7.18 birds/m²) on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, hematological and serum biochemical indices, and economic efficiency of broilers raised in open-sided housing under natural heat stress (32-38 °C; relative humidity 65-80%). A total of 360 male chicks (Ross-308) were randomly allocated to four treatments, with six replicates of 15 birds each, in a completely randomized design over 35 days. Broilers raised at 8.61 and 7.18 birds/m² showed higher (p<0.05) feed intake and body weight gain than those raised at 14.35 and 10.76 birds/m². Feed conversion ratio was improved in birds provided 8.61 and 7.18 birds/m². Carcass characteristics and cut-up part yields were not significantly affected by stocking density. Hematological analysis revealed higher red blood cell count, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, lymphocyte percentage, and serum protein levels in birds reared at lower densities (8.61 and 7.18 birds/m²). Broilers kept at 14.35 birds/m² had higher levels of heterophils, heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, corticosterone, ALT, AST, and ALP. In terms of economics, 8.61 birds/m² produced the highest net profit and cost-benefit ratio, even though 7.18 birds/m² generated higher overall income. According to these results, under the environmental and management conditions of the present study, 8.61 birds/m² appeared to provide the most favorable balance between growth performance and economic return in broilers raised in open-sided housing during a hot season.