Nitrogen and Phosphorus Overload
Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are two elements with broader impact on the environment. Reduction in the amount of reactive N and P output may improve conditions like eutrophication or over-nutrification of lakes and other water bodies. But, reducing the nutrient load is a bit difficult, owing to the increase in human population with its direct and indirect effects. Human population increased by around 78% since the 1970s; at the same period, an 120% increase in reactive N was also observed. The role of P in eutrophication is well documented in several studies.
Contents
- Nitrogen and Phosphorus Overload
- Poultry Production and Nutrient Pollution
- Poultry Genetic reduction of Nitrogen and Phosphorus
- References
Poultry Production and Nutrient Pollution
Poultry production is increasing in almost every country around the world due to the nutritional value, low price (relative), and safety. According to USDA (2010), the trade forecast in 2011 for broiler meat is moderately higher. Genetics, nutrition, changes in management, and increased per capital consumption of poultry meat are some of the major driving forces behind the increased poultry production. Intensive poultry production generate large concentrations of ammonia. The physiological incapability of poultry digestive system to utilize the common form of P in feed, i.e. phytate also contribute to emission of phytate P into the environment.
Poultry: Genetic reduction of Nitrogen and Phosphorus
Traditional methods for reduction of N and P from poultry production involves: Nutrient management and Industrial disposal. Nutrient management involves dietary modification to improve the utilization of N or P. A genetic alternative for the above mentioned methods is to use selection to increase utilization of nutrients by the birds. Sasikala-Appukuttan (2010) used the genetic selection method and showed that broiler production could be improved sane much environment pollution. However, the challenge is to convince the big poultry companies for implementing a new breeding scheme with minimal damage to environment.