Electrolyte content of blood and bone in chickens subjected to heat stress.

In two trials, S. C. White Leghorns were subjected to constant ambient temperatures of 21.1, 29.4 and 35.0 C from 2 to 33 or 2 to 31 weeks of age. Blood samples were obtained 4 days prior to termination of the trial. In trial 1, blood electrolytes Na, K, Ca, Mg and Cl were studied. In trial 2, the same blood electrolytes plus P were studied and the left femur was analyzed for Na, K, Ca, Mg, P, Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn and % ash. Results indicate that both males and females can maintain homeostasis of both blood and bone under the above temperature conditions.