Optimization of weight gain in Ross 308 chickens by applying two protein levels in diets under conditions in the Bolivian Altiplano

Abstract

The study was conducted in El Alto (3,905 m above sea level, Bolivia), where the effect of different levels of crude protein (CP: control 20-18%, T1 18-16%, T2 16-14%) in diets for Ross 308 broiler chickens was evaluated under conditions of hypoxia and cold stress, using a completely randomized experimental design (RCD) with 126 birds. The ANOVA results showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in weight gain, feed intake, or feed conversion between treatments, with coefficients of variation that validate the reliability of the data, indicating that variations in crude protein did not affect productive performance under optimal environmental management. However, males showed greater weight gain, possibly due togenetic factors, while fiber in the diets (5%) may have limited digestibility. In terms of mortality, the control group recorded 12.7%, significantly higher than T1 (7.14%) and T2 (4.76%), attributed to ascites syndrome, suggesting that diets with lower CP (16-14%) reduce the incidence of ascites without affecting zootechnical performance. The study concludes that a comprehensive approach combining nutrition, environmental management, and genetics is key to optimizing poultry production at high altitudes, recommending future research on economic impact and digestibility.