Strain variation to cold stress in growth performance, carcass traits, hematological, blood biochemical parameters and antioxidant enzymes in broilers

1000 day old chicks of 5 different strains each of 200 bird (Cobb 500, Ross 308, Avian 48, Arbor Acres (A. Acres) and Indian River(IR)) were raised to evaluate the difference of their response to cold stress in growth performance, carcass traits, hematological, blood biochemical parameters and antioxidant enzymes. Each strain were randomly allotted into 10 replicates in separate partitions each of 20 bird. All birds subjected to cold stress. The obtained results revealed that Cobb 500 had significantly higher final body weight followed by Ross 308, IR, Avian 48 and the lowest was A. Acres (2414.21, 2333.22, 2302.90, 2249.82 and 2159.56 g respectively) and similarly total weight gain, however A. Acres and Avian had significantly higher feed intake then Ross 308, IR and the lowest was Cobb 500 (5055.60 and 5052.60 vs. 5007.60, 4951.60 and 4912.60 g respectively), similarly water intake. FCR was better in Cobb 500 followed by IR and Ross 308 than A. Acres, Avian (2.07 vs. 2.19 and 2.19 vs. 2.39 and 2.29 respectively). Mortality rate was significantly lower in Cobb 500 and IR than Ross, Avian and A. Acres (6.40 and 7.06 vs. 8.80, 10.40 and 11.20 % respectively). Cobb 500 showed significantly better carcass traits. Cobb 500 showed significantly higher serum glucose, while total protein, total lipids, hemoglobin and PCV % showed no significant variations. Cobb 500 had significantly lower antioxidant enzymes GPx, MDA and SOD than other strains. In conclusion, Cobb 500 stain may be preferred in rearing during low climatic temperature.