The experiment was undertaken to compare two commonly used light sources viz incandescent (bulb) and fluorescent (tube) light in broiler production assessed through growth and economic return. Day old commercial broiler chicks (n=200) were divided randomly into two equal groups with hundred birds each and reared on deep litter system. The first group was exposed to fluorescent light (40W; 6500°K), while the second group was exposed to incandescent light (100 W; 230V bulb). The light sources were hanged 8 feet above the ground level and a light intensity of 15 to 20 lux was maintained in both experimental house. Except light source birds were provided with same inputs and management in every respect. Weekly body weight and feed consumption were recorded. At the end of the experiment expenditure, incurred through purchasing of day old chick, feed, vaccine and medicine, labour and electricity was calculated. Income was generated after selling the birds in the local market. Based on income and expenditure profit/loss was calculated. Significantly (p=0.05) higher body weight gain was observed in birds exposed to fluorescent light. Throughout the experimental period lesser feed consumption and better FCR was observed in the fluorescent light group. Fluorescent light source economized the cost of electricity as well. As a whole, fluorescent light increased economic return (Rs.7.5/bird) as compared to incandescent light (Rs. 2.8/bird). Therefore, it was concluded that fluorescent light was better than incandescent light for commercial broiler production.
Broiler, incandescent light, fluorescent light, growth, light intensity, photoperiod
