Study of gut microbiota of laying hens from different production systems

In this study, the development of microbiota in egg laying hens, raised in different production systems, from the day of hatching until 80 weeks of age, was characterised. Understanding the natural development of gut microbiota in layers may allow for analysis of the effects on growth performance, egg production traits and resistance to pathogen infection. The findings of this study provided a baseline of gut microbiota of laying hens raised in cage, barn and free range production systems. This study generated one of the largest datasets of gut microbiota in laying hens. The findings on the gut microbiota development is helpful for the industry in conducting future research on optimising/manipulating dietary requirements for optimal performance of laying hens.