Poultry Judging Practice Test

Which factor should not be considered when evaluating broiler breeders for future meat production?

1. Weight

2. Sexual maturity

3. Feed conversion

4. Growth rate

The correct answer is: Sexual maturity

When evaluating broiler breeders for future meat production, sexual maturity is a factor that should not be prioritized. The primary focus should be on characteristics that directly influence the meat quality and growth potential of the offspring. Weight provides an indication of the breeder's overall health and capacity to produce substantial meat. Feed conversion is critical as it measures how efficiently the birds convert feed into body weight, impacting economic viability. Growth rate is essential since it indicates how quickly the progeny will reach market weight, thus affecting productivity in commercial meat production. In contrast, while sexual maturity plays a role in the reproductive capabilities of the breeders, it does not directly correlate to the ultimate meat production quality or efficiency of the offspring. Therefore, it is less relevant when assessing breeders specifically for their contributions to meat production efficiency, making it the factor that should be deprioritized in this context.