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Main Article Content
Comparative Performance and Trait Correlations of Three Broiler Genotypes Reared Under Tropical Conditions
Abstract
The study was carried out to compare the influence of different broiler genotypes on growth traits. A total of one hundred and thirty-five (135) broilers, comprising forty-five (45) Arbor acre, forty-five (45) Ross 308, and forty-five (45) Marshal Strains were randomly allocated to three treatments of 45 chicks per strain, with each treatment having three replicates of fifteen birds. The birds were fed straight diets comprising 22.17% CP, 2971.85Kcal/kgME, and reared in a deep litter system. Data on body weight, linear body measurements, and phenotypic correlations were recorded bi-weekly, from week 2 to the 8th week. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Results obtained showed there were significant (P<0.05) variations in the body weight and other linear body parameters of the three strains of broiler Chickens at 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age. Body weight at 2 weeks showed no significant (P>0.05) effect, but significant (P<0.05) variations existed in the other linear body parameters, such as body length, breast circumference, wing length, thigh length, thigh circumference, keel length, and shank length in all the strains of broiler chickens. Marshall had the superior mean value (2035g) for body weight at week 8, followed by Arbor Acre with an intermediate (2015g) value. However, Ross 308 recorded the least value (1958g). This indicates that there were differences in the genetic makeup of the three strains. Positive and significant (P<0.05/0.01) phenotypic relationships existed between body weight and other linear body measurements at different weeks of age in all the strains of broiler chickens. At week 2, there were highly positive phenotypic correlations between body weight and all the body linear parameters. However, negative phenotypic correlations also existed between body weight and other linear body parameters at different weeks of age in all the strains of broiler chickens. Therefore, it is suggested that for profitable broiler production under tropical conditions, Arbor acre and Marshal Strains of broiler can be recommended for poultry farmers.
