Title: Effect of Calcium and Phosphorus Levels on the Performance of Layers in Nigeria
Abstract: Two hundred and fifty-six Harco pullets were fed 2.00, 2.75, 3.50 and 4.25 % calcium as well as 0.4 and 0.6% total phosphorus in a 4×2×2 factorial experiment under the battery cage and deep litter housing systems for a period of 48 weeks. 0.6% phosphorus level resulted in a significant (P<0.05) increase in egg production over the 0.4% phosphorus level. Highest egg production was with the ration containing 3.50% calcium and 0.6% phosphorus. Housing system had no effect on egg production. Egg shell quality as measured by shell weight per unit area of surface increased significantly (P<0.01) as the calcium level increased. Neither phosphorus level nor housing system had any significant effect on egg shell quality or feed consumption. Feed consumption increased significantly (P<0.01) with calcium level up to a point and then declined. Birds housed in battery cages grew at a significantly (P<0.01) faster rate than those housed on deep litter.