ASSESSMENT OF WEIGHT GAIN BETWEEN INDIGENOUS AND EXOTIC BREED OF BROILER

ASSESSMENT OF WEIGHT GAIN BETWEEN INDIGENOUS AND EXOTIC BREED OF BROILER

Abstract

This study assessed the weight gain between indigenous and exotic breeds of broiler chickens. The specific objectives were to determine the initial and final body weights of the two breeds; compare the weekly weight gain of the breeds; analyze the feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the breeds; assess the effect of breed on carcass characteristics; and evaluate the economicimplications of rearing the two breeds. A total of 60 day-old chicks (30 indigenous improved local breed and 30 exotic broiler breed) were used for the experiment, which lasted for 8 weeks. The birds were managed under identical conditions, fed the same commercial broiler feed, and their weights were recorded weekly. Data were collected on initial weight, weekly weight gain, feed intake, final weight, and carcass characteristics. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the independent samples t-test. The findings revealed a significant (p<0.05) difference in weight gain between the two breeds. The exotic broiler breed demonstrated a significantly higher average weekly weight gain and final body weight (2.8 kg) compared to the indigenous breed (1.2 kg) at the end of the 8-week period. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the exotic breed was also significantly better (more efficient) than that of the indigenous breed. The study concluded that for rapid meat production, the exotic broiler breed is significantly superior. However, the indigenous breed may possess other valuable traits like hardiness and disease resistance. It was recommended that farmers aiming for quick meat production should focus on exotic broilers, while the indigenous breed can be improved through crossbreeding programs for specific market niches.

Chapter One – Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Poultry production is one of the most important and fastest-growing segments of the agricultural sector in Nigeria and globally. It plays a critical role in providing high-quality animal protein, generating income, and creating employmentopportunities. The poultry industry is often categorized into eggs (layers) and meat (broilers) production. Broiler production, in particular, is a major commercial enterprise due to the high demand for chicken meat and the relatively short production cycle. (Food and AgricultureOrganization [FAO], 2021).

The primary goal of broiler production is to convert feed into meat as efficiently and rapidly as possible. This is achieved through the use of specially selected breeds of chickens that have been genetically improved for rapid growth, high feed efficiency, and a desirable body conformation. The modern commercial broiler is a testament to decades of scientific breeding, achieving market weight in a matter of weeks. These breeds are often referred to as “exotic” or “improved” breeds in the Nigerian context. (Adebayo, Oladele, and Sanusi, 2021).

In Nigeria, there are two broad categories of chickens used for meat production: the exotic (commercial) broiler breeds and the indigenous (local) chicken breeds. The exotic broilers, such as the Ross, Cobb, and Arbor Acres strains, are known for their rapid growth and large size. The indigenous breeds, such as the Fulani ecotype and the Yoruba ecotype, are smaller, grow more slowly, and are known for their hardiness, disease resistance, and ability to thrive under harsh conditions. They are also valued for their unique taste. (National Animal Production Research Institute [NAPRI], 2020).

The genetic potential of a chicken breed is a fundamental determinant of its growth performance. Exotic broiler breeds have been selected over many generations for maximal weight gain and feed efficiency. This selection has resulted in birds with a voracious appetite, rapid muscle development, and an efficient metabolism focused on growth. The problem is that this genetic potential can only be realized if the birds are provided with high-quality feed and optimal management conditions. (Siegel, 2019).

Indigenous chicken breeds, on the other hand, have not been subjected to the same intensive selection pressure for growth. Their genetic makeup reflects adaptation to local conditions, including tolerance to heat, resistance to local diseases, and the ability to forage for food. The problem is that this adaptation comes at the cost of slower growth rates and lower meat yield compared to exotic broilers. The indigenous breeds represent a valuable genetic resource, but their meat production potential is limited. (NAPRI, 2020).

The concept of weight gain is a fundamental measure of growth performance. It is simply the increase in body weight over a period of time. In broiler production, weight gain is a key indicator of the efficiency of the production system. The average daily gain (ADG) is a common metric used to compare growth rates. A higher ADG means that the bird reaches market weight sooner, which reduces the cost of production and improves profitability. The genetic makeup of the bird is a primary determinant of its ADG. (Siegel, 2019).

Feed conversion ratio (FCR) is another critical performance indicator. It is a measure of the efficiency with which a bird converts feed into body mass. It is calculated by dividing the total feed consumed by the total weight gained. A lower FCR is better, as it means that less feed is required to produce a unit of meat. Feed costs account for the majority of the total cost of broiler production, so improving FCR is a major way to improve profitability. Exotic broilers are known for their excellent FCR. (Adebayo et al., 2021).

The choice of breed is one of the most important decisions a farmer makes. For a commercial farmer focused on maximizing meat production and profit, the exotic broiler is the obvious choice. However, for a smallholder farmer with limited resources, the indigenous breed may be a more viable option due to its lower input requirements and greater resilience. The problem is that these two types of birds represent different production systems and different market niches. (NAPRI, 2020).

The comparison of the performance of indigenous and exotic broilers is a subject of significant research interest. Such comparisons provide valuable information on the trade-offs between productivity and adaptability. While the superior growth performance of exotic broilers is well-documented, there is ongoing interest in understanding the potential of indigenous breeds and in exploring crossbreeding strategies that combine the desirable traits of both. The ultimate goal is to develop a bird that is both productive and well-adapted to local conditions. (Adebayo et al., 2021).

The assessment of carcass characteristics is an important complement to the measurement of live weight gain. Carcass characteristics, such as dressing percentage (the proportion of live weight that is the carcass), breast meat yield, and thigh meat yield, determine the market value of the bird. Exotic broilers are known for their high dressing percentage and their large, well-muscled breasts. Indigenous birds typically have a lower dressing percentage and a different carcass composition. (Siegel, 2019).

This study is therefore designed to provide a direct, empirical comparison of the weight gain and related performance indicators of an indigenous and an exotic broiler breed under identical management conditions. This will provide a clear demonstration of the genetic differences in growth potential and will contribute to the body of evidence that can inform farmer choices and breeding programs. The study will also assess the economic implications of choosing one breed over the other. (Emmanuel and Okafor, 2022).

The findings of this study are expected to be of significant value to a wide range of stakeholders. For farmers, the study will provide clear evidence of the performance differences between the two breeds, informing their choice. For researchers, the study will contribute to the literature on poultry genetics and performance. For policymakers, the study will inform strategies for improving the local poultry industry. Ultimately, the study aims to contribute to the growth of a productive and sustainable poultry sector. (World Bank, 2022).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The Nigerian poultry industry is characterized by a dual structure, with commercial farms raising exotic broiler breeds and smallholder farmers often raising indigenous chickens. The core problem is that while the superior growth performance of exotic broilers is widely acknowledged, there is a lack of robust, locally-generated, comparative data that quantifies the exact differences in weight gain, feed efficiency, and economic returns between these two types of birds under the same conditions. This evidence gap makes it difficult for farmers, particularly smallholders, to make fully informed decisions. (NAPRI, 2020).

A fundamental problem is the low productivity of indigenous chicken breeds in terms of meat production. The slow growth rate and low meat yield of these birds limit their profitability for farmers who are focused on meat production. The problem is that this low productivity is a major constraint on the growth of the rural poultry sector. While indigenous birds are well-adapted, their genetic potential for meat production is a limiting factor. The quantification of this limitation is important for guiding improvement programs. (Siegel, 2019).

The problem of the high input requirements of exotic broiler breeds is a critical issue for smallholder farmers. Exotic broilers require high-quality feed, a controlled environment, and strict biosecurity to achieve their genetic potential. The problem is that these requirements are often beyond the reach of resource-poor farmers. The high cost of feed and the susceptibility of these birds to disease can lead to significant losses. The need for a breed that balances productivity with hardiness is therefore acute. (Adebayo et al., 2021).

There is a significant problem with the lack of a direct, side-by-side comparison of the two breeds under a controlled experimental setting. Most of the available evidence is either anecdotal or derived from studies conducted under different conditions, making direct comparison difficult. The problem is that this lack of a controlled comparison makes it hard to isolate the pure genetic effect on performance. A well-designed experiment, where both breeds are managed identically, is needed to provide a definitive answer. (Emmanuel and Okafor, 2022).

The issue of the trade-off between growth rate and other desirable traits is a key consideration. Exotic broilers have been selected for rapid growth, but this selection has sometimes come at the expense of other traits, such as disease resistance and meat quality. The problem is that this trade-off is not always well-understood by farmers. The relative importance of different traits depends on the specific production system and market. A comprehensive assessment should consider not just weight gain but also these other factors. (Siegel, 2019).

The problem of the lack of reliable economic data comparing the profitability of raising the two breeds is a constraint. The decision of which breed to raise is ultimately an economic one. The problem is that farmers need to know the cost of production and the expected revenue for each breed to make an informed choice. The economic analysis of the two production systems is therefore essential. The gross margin for each breed needs to be calculated and compared. (Heady and Dillon, 2018).

There is a significant problem with the under-utilization of the genetic resources of indigenous chickens. These birds represent a valuable reservoir of genes for traits like disease resistance and heat tolerance. The problem is that the focus on exotic breeds has led to the neglect of these local genetic resources. The extinction of some indigenous breeds would be a significant loss. The characterization of their performance, as done in this study, is a step towards their conservation and sustainable use. (NAPRI, 2020).

The problem of the influence of management on the expression of genetic potential is a key consideration. The performance of any breed is a result of the interaction between its genes and its environment. The problem is that if management is sub-optimal, even the best breed will underperform. The comparison of breeds must therefore be done under optimal management conditions to reveal their true genetic differences. This is the approach taken in this study. (Siegel, 2019).

The issue of the quality of day-old chicks (DOCs) is a practical concern. The performance of both breeds depends on the quality of the chicks at the start of the experiment. The problem is that low-quality chicks, due to poor hatchery management or disease, will have poor growth regardless of their breed. Ensuring the use of healthy, high-quality chicks is therefore essential for a fair comparison. The source of the DOCs is a critical factor. (Adebayo et al., 2021).

The problem of the lack of awareness among farmers about the specific performance differences is a barrier to improvement. Many smallholder farmers may not have accurate information about the potential weight gain of exotic broilers or the FCR advantages they offer. The problem is that this lack of knowledge prevents them from making optimal choices. The dissemination of the results of studies like this one is therefore an important part of extension work. (World Bank, 2022).

This study is designed to address these problems by providing a rigorous, controlled, and empirical comparison of the weight gain, feed efficiency, and economic performance of an indigenous and an exotic broiler breed. The study will use a standardized experimental design and statistical analysis to provide definitive answers. The core problem this research aims to solve is the lack of reliable, locally-generated evidence needed to guide farmers in making optimal breed choices. (Emmanuel and Okafor, 2022).

1.3 Aim of the Study

The aim of this study is to assess and compare the weight gain between an indigenous and an exotic breed of broiler chicken under identical management conditions.

1.4 Objectives of the Study

The specific objectives of this study are to:

1. Determine the initial and final body weights of the indigenous and exotic broiler breeds.
2. Compare the weekly weight gain of the two breeds over the study period.
3. Analyze the feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the two breeds.
4. Assess the effect of breed on carcass characteristics.
5. Evaluate the economic implications of rearing the two breeds.

1.5 Research Questions

The following research questions were formulated to guide this study:

1. What are the initial and final body weights of the indigenous and exotic broilers?
2. What is the pattern of weekly weight gain for the two breeds?
3. What are the feed intake and FCR of the two breeds?
4. How do the carcass characteristics of the two breeds differ?
5. Which breed is more economically viable for meat production?

1.6 Research Hypotheses

The following null (H₀) and alternative (H₁) hypotheses were tested in this study:

1. H₀: There is no significant difference in the final body weight of the indigenous and exotic broiler breeds.
   H₁: There is a significant difference in the final body weight of the indigenous and exotic broiler breeds.
2. H₀: There is no significant difference in the average weekly weight gain of the two breeds.
   H₁: There is a significant difference in the average weekly weight gain of the two breeds.
3. H₀: There is no significant difference in the feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the two breeds.
   H₁: There is a significant difference in the feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the two breeds.
4. H₀: There is no significant difference in the dressing percentage of the two breeds.
   H₁: There is a significant difference in the dressing percentage of the two breeds.
5. H₀: The economic net return of the two breeds is not significantly different.
   H₁: The economic net return of the two breeds is significantly different.

1.7 Significance of the Study

This study holds significant value for a wide range of stakeholders. For poultry farmers, both commercial and smallholder, in Nigeria , the findings will provide clear, empirical evidence on the performance differences between indigenous and exotic broiler breeds. This will enable them to make informed decisions about which breed to raise, based on their specific resources, goals, and target market. The study will help to set realistic expectations for growth rates and feed efficiency, which is crucial for business planning.

For researchers and academics in animal science and poultry genetics , this study will contribute valuable data to the body of knowledge on breed performance. The direct, controlled comparison provides a clear demonstration of the genetic differences. The study will also serve as a baseline for future research on crossbreeding strategies aimed at improving indigenous breeds. The data on carcass characteristics will be useful for breeding program design.

For policymakers and developmentorganizations , the study will provide evidence to inform strategies for the development of the poultry sector. The findings on the trade-offs between productivity and adaptability will be useful for designing support programs that are appropriate for different categories of farmers. The study highlights the potential for improving the productivity of indigenous breeds through targeted breeding, which could benefit rural livelihoods.

For students and educators , this study provides a practical example of the application of the scientific method to a real-world problem in animal production. The experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis can be used as a teaching tool. The study clearly illustrates the concept of genetic potential and its interaction with management.

1.8 Scope of the Study

This study is focused on the assessment of weight gain between an indigenous and an exotic breed of broiler chicken. The study involves the rearing of 30 day-old chicks of each breed (60 total) under identical management conditions for a period of 8 weeks. The specific indigenous breed and exotic broiler strain will be determined based on local availability. The study measures body weight, weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and selected carcass characteristics. The study does not cover other poultry species (e.g., layers, turkeys) or the effects of different feed types or management practices.

1.9 Limitation of the Study

This study is subject to certain limitations. The primary limitation is the use of a single indigenous breed and a single exotic strain, which may not be representative of all breeds within each category. The study is conducted at a single location and under a single set of environmental conditions, which limits the generalizability of the findings. The sample size of 30 birds per breed is adequate for detecting large differences but may not be sufficient for detecting small effects. The study is limited to an 8-week period, which captures the main growth phase but not the long-term performance. Finally, the study does not include a detailed analysis of meat quality parameters, such as taste and tenderness, which are important market considerations.

1.10 Definition of Terms

For the purpose of clarity, the following terms are defined as they are used in this study:

1. Broiler: A chicken specifically raised for meat production.
2. Indigenous Breed: A local breed of chicken that is native to a particular region and has not been subjected to intensive selection for production traits.
3. Exotic Breed: A commercially developed breed or strain of chicken that has been intensively selected for rapid growth and high feed efficiency.
4. Weight Gain: The increase in body weight over a specified period.
5. Feed Intake: The total amount of feed consumed by a bird or group of birds over a specified period.
6. Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR): A measure of the efficiency with which a bird converts feed into body mass, calculated as feed consumed divided by weight gained.
7. Carcass Characteristics: The physical attributes of the slaughtered bird’s body, including dressing percentage and the yield of different meat cuts.
8. Dressing Percentage: The weight of the carcass expressed as a percentage of the live weight of the bird.
9. Average Daily Gain (ADG): The average weight gained per day over a specific period.
10. Management Conditions: The environmental, nutritional, and husbandry practices under which the birds are raised.