Multiple linear regression equations for the prediction of food intake in the laying fowl

Synopsis

By means of multiple linear regression analysis, an equation for the prediction of food intake in the laying fowl was derived:

where F = daily food intake (g), ΔW= daily live‐weight change (g), W ^0.75 = metabolic body size (g) and E= daily egg mass (g)

A correction factor for the effect of environmental temperature upon food intake is given, whilst a modification of the intercept value is presented to account for the effect of the dietary energy/body weight interaction upon food intake.

It is suggested that equation variation with age, so as to attain maximum accuracy of intake, may only be required in the periods immediately following peak output of egg mass. Individual equations for two strains of hybrid are also presented, and it is concluded that such equations are very narrow in their capability of prediction; not necessarily applying to strains with a similar body weight.