ARS | Publication request: Effect of Broiler Litter Physical, Chemical, and Spatial Characteristics on the Microbial Population Evaluated Using Molecular Techniques

Submitted to: ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: October 1, 2006
Publication Date: November 12, 2006
Citation: Cook, K.L., Lovanh, N.C., Rothrock Jr, M.J., Miles, D.M., Sistani, K.R. 2006. Effect of broiler litter physical, chemical, and spatial characteristics on the microbial population evaluated using molecular techniques. ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts.

Technical Abstract: Microbial populations within poultry litter have been largely ignored with the exception of potential human or livestock pathogens. A better understanding of the community structure and identity of the microbial populations within poultry litter could aid in development of management practices that would reduce populations responsible for toxic air emissions. In this study, poultry litter air and physical properties were correlated to shifts in microbial community structure. Litter samples were taken in a 36-point grid pattern at 5 m across and 12 m down a 146 m by 12.8 m chicken house. At each sample point, gas flux estimates were made, litter moisture and pH were determined, temperature and humidity were recorded and samples were taken for molecular analysis. Poultry litter samples (0.3 g) were extracted in duplicate using Qbiogene’s Fast® DNA Soil extraction kit. This DNA extraction method gave the greatest yield of DNA (146 ± 66 ng ul-1) and more distinct bands were obtained by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis of these samples. Evaluation of total cell concentration by quantitative, real-time PCR analysis of the 16S rDNA showed that microbial cell concentrations were very high (3.0 ' 0.9 X 1010 cells gram-1 litter). The total cell concentration doubled in the front of the house (middle samples only) and in the feed and watering areas nearby where the chicks were concentrated and the litter was more moist. DGGE analysis showed that the banding pattern of samples from this area was also distinct from those of samples from surrounding areas. Unique bands will be extracted and identified using 16S rDNA sequence analysis. Based on this data, there appear to be differences in the concentrations and types of microorganisms across the length of the house. These differences correspond to differences in physical properties of the litter.