| The effects of S6-strain Mycoplasma gallisepticum inoculation and its timing on the performance, egg, blood, and visceral characteristics of commercial egg laying hens were investigated in two trials. In both trials, 160 birds were assigned to 16 biological isolation units at 10 wk of age. There were four replicate units in each of four treatments where control birds received a sham-inoculation at 10 wk, and treated birds received an S6MG inoculation at either 10, 22, or 45 wk of age. In both trials, 22 wk S6MG-inoculated birds produced more small eggs and had higher concentrations of arachidonic and stearic acids in their egg yolks compared to control birds. In 45 wk S6MG-inoculated birds, liver lipid content was lower and serum calcium concentration was higher after Week 47 when compared to controls. Timing of S6MG inoculation may influence egg size, eggshell forming processes, and liver lipid metabolism in laying hens. |
