PATTERN OF GROWTH OF ROSS 308 STRAIN OF BROILERS IN OWERRI, IMO STATE

Abstract

Ross 308strain of broiler is one of the most prevalent strain of broilers raised by farmers in Nigeria. Therefore, growth curved modelling of this animal becomes necessary to optimize its management and efficient of its production. This study is aimed at determining the growth rate of Ross 308 strain of broiler chicken. A total of 100 chicks were raised from day-old to 8weeks. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and simple linear regression of each of the measured parameters on age was performed. The findings of this study revealed that there was a proportional increase in body weight with linear body measurements, hence the linear traits of ROSS 308 can be predicted if the animal‘s age is known. The allometric growth equation relating body weight and drum stick was highest (92.8%), whereas body weight and body length was least (76.9%). This study concluded that there is a concordance increase in body parameters of ROSS 308 chicken with age and that the Drum stick and Shank Length of Ross308 grow faster than other linear body parts. Hence, the study recommends Drum stick length as the best tool for selection of Ross 308 strain of broiler chicken.