HERFS/AUTUMN BONUS TYDSKRIF 2026

Looking at the feed conversion ratio (FCR) – the amount of feed in kilograms required to produce one kilogram of egg mass – all breeds perform similarly (Graph 8 below). The Hy-Line breed has a slightly improved FCR compared to the other breeds, but only differs by a maximum of 0,16. Again, it is important to consider that a wide range of factors may influence FCR and that these figures are guidelines. When considering production systems, it is more likely that management and nutrition would have a greater effect on FCR than genetics. Graph 8: Average feed conversion ratio (FCR) per breed Conclusion Overall, all three commercial laying breeds, the Hy-Line, Lohmann, and Amberlink, are all relatively similar when considering appearance, housing options, environment adaptation and liveability, egg conformation and production, as well as feed intake and feed efficiency. Small differences can be seen between the breeds and breed lines, such as the Amberlink being well-suited to free-range systems or that the Hy-Line Silver reaches 50% production marginally sooner than other breeds. In terms of egg conformation, the main difference is in the egg weight at the point of lay. This may be heavily influenced by body weight at 16 weeks and the point of lay. Another difference is in the production at 100 weeks of age, which suggests that different breeds should be culled at different ages. Notably, the Lohmann breed could work better in a system where birds are culled earlier. In laying operations in South Africa, most producers tend to cull between 80 and 90 weeks of age. Breed choice and breed line choice appear to be a personal choice, especially when modern genetics comes into play. Arguably, it is most likely the on-farm management, nutrition, and environmental conditions that have the biggest effects on production rather than the choice of breed, especially during the rearing period. As seen, all breeds have the genetic potential to produce very well if managed correctly. www.deheus.co.za | 031 785 1575 | infosa@deheus.com Should you requiremore information relating to the common laying breeds in South Africa, please contact your nearest De Heus technical specialist – https:// www.deheus.co.za/meet-our-team/. www.agribonus.co.za Herfs/Autumn 2026 BONUS 85