The present investigation suggesting that light flashes can be used in improving the productive and reproductive performance of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits and decreasing electricity consumption. Total of seventy two, weaned rabbits aged 4 weeks were randomly distributed into six experimental groups. The first group, the rabbits were subjected to 12 hrs artificial light/day as a control (C). While, the second group (T1), rabbits were subjected to12 hrs of biomittent artificial light (BAL) cycles/hour (15 AL min. + 15 D min.). The third group (T2), rabbits were subjected to 12 hrs of biomittent flashed light (BFL) cycles/hour (15 FL min. +15 D min.). The fourth group (T3), rabbits were subjected to12 hrs of intermittent artificial light (IAL) cycles/day (3 hrs AL+ 3D hrs). The fifth group (T4), rabbits were subjected intermittent flashed light (IFL) cycles/day (3 hrs FL and 3 D hrs). The sixth group (T5), rabbits were subjected to 12 hrs of (FL)/day.
Based on the obtained results, significant (P≤0.05) effects were observed in growth performance and dressed carcass of flashed light treated groups. Also, light flashes induced significant increases in sperm-cell concentration. While, no significant differences were existed in most semen traits and blood parameters values. Conception rate and reproductive index were significantly (P≤0.05) improved in bio-intermittent flashed light treated groups than that in control and continuous flashed light treated groups. However, no significant differences were demonstrated in gestation period, litter size and bunny weight.
In conclusion, use of light flashes allowed a better growth performance without notable effects on plasma profile. Also, it becomes more beneficial for reproductive performance, especially when applied under intermittent flashed light.
Furthermore, the flashed light schedules are easy to apply and low cost in rabbit farms as economical alternative light source under semi closed housing system according to economical efficiency.