ARS | Publication request: Prospects of Developing Low (-)-Gossypol Cottonseed for use in Broiler Production

Submitted to: National Cotton Council Beltwide Cotton Conference
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: January 17, 2013
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Cottonseed can not be used directly as a feed for non-ruminant animals because it contains the toxin gossypol which occurs as (+)-gossypol and (-)-gossypol enantiomers. Only the latter shows a high level of toxicity. Under the project of CRDF Uzb2-31001-TA-08 we conducted experiments on developing varieties that exhibit a low percentage of (-)-gossypol in seed. The objective of our research was to develop germplasm with a low percentage of (-)-gossypol in seeds and use the meal from this seed to feed chickens. Breeding Uzbek cotton varieties and USA accessions we selected positive recombinants with a low percentage of (-)-gossypol in seeds. Results of this investigation has resulted in the development of the cotton line HPG-1 that exhibits the low percentage (-)-gossypol seed trait and also has good agronomic properties. Meal derived from seed from lines exhibiting the low (-)-gossypol seed trait were incorporated into chicken diets in place of soybean meal. Results of feeding this meal to chiockens will be presented.