PHENOTYPIC AND GROWTH EVALUATION OF ROSS 308, ARBOR ACRE AND COBB 500 STRAINS OF BROILER CHICKEN

Abstract

This study assessed the phenotypic traits and growth performance of three broiler strains (Arbor Acre, Cobb 500, and Ross 308) over a 42 day period using deep litter system of management. A total of 180 chicks (60 per strain) were randomly allotted into three replicates, each containing 20 birds. Growth parameters measured included body weight, weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR), while linear body measurements were body length, wing length, height, thigh length, shank length, and heart girth. Data analysis showed no significant (p>0.05) differences in growth performance across strains although Cobb 500 had the highest body weight (1713.09 g), followed by Ross 308 (1681.43g) and Arbor Acre (1661.67g). The FCR values also showed no significant (p>0.05) strain effect on this parameter. Cobb 500 exhibited superior height compared to others. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive correlations between body weight and most linear body traits, except for height, which showed a low correlation (p>0.05). Regression analysis identified more independent variables as best predictors of body weight across strains than individual variables. Overall, the study showed that the broiler strains had similar growth patterns.