Seven mathematicians, five days – one turkey body weight challenge

Published on Feb. 26, 2019

Seven mathematicians, five days – one turkey body weight challenge

We recently participated in a fast-paced workshop in collaboration with Wageningen University. SWI is an event where mathematicians work in groups to examine six industry challenges from a variety of fields. The catch? They must present their findings in only five days. 

This year, we challenged this group of talented minds to examine turkey body weight prediction using force plates and walking behavior. Capturing accurate data on animal body weight is a key aspect of any breeding program. Improving the accuracy of selection is the only way to achieve genetic improvement, year after year. 

The issue

The topic we contributed was on the issue of turkey body weight prediction. In a recent trial, approximately 200 turkeys were walked individually through a corridor where a force plate was placed. During each walk, force plate output voltages (eight channels) were captured to log the walking behavior. Along with the force plate records, the actual body weight of each bird was measured using a scale. We were interested in discovering a model that can accurately predict turkey body weight. This could potentially increase selection accuracy as well as reduce the amount of labor needed to manually weigh birds on a scale.

Results of the workshop will be examined within our R&D department. We were pleased to be included in this event where enthusiasm, innovation, and collaboration were all on display.

Click here to watch the video.

Wageningen University video

Related articles

Hendrix Genetics Partners with LABOGENA DNA for Advanced Genotyping Services

Hendrix Genetics, a globally recognized leader in animal breeding across multiple species (turkeys, layers, traditional poultry, swine, trout, salmon, and shrimp) has selected LABOGENA DNA as its exc…

, by
Press Release: Strengthening Genetic Excellence: Hypor and Danish Genetics Merge to Form a Strategic Alliance

Date: October 21, 2024Boxmeer, Netherlands – The global multispecies genetics company Hendrix Genetics is excited to announce the signing of an agreement to merge its swine division, Hypor, with Dani…

, by
Inspiring global R&D days

Last week, Hendrix Genetics R&D team convened for an inspiring three-day gathering in Wageningen, where people from across various units of our company united.