Growth response in broilers from dwarf dams as affected by climatic variation

Abstract

Performance of 2 commercial broiler genotypes (G, G) was evaluated for growth responses up to 6 weeks of age in cold, moderate and hot climate (C) under 4 dietary regimes (T). Genotype G₁ was produced from dwarfand G₂ from normal broiler dams. Significantly (P< 0.05) superior body weights were obtained in G than G chicks at all ages in moderate and hot climates. Better feed conversion was found under hot followed by cold and moderate climates. Diet containing 25% crude protein and 3 000 kcal ME/kg feed supported superior growth irrespective of climate or genotype. Interaction of climate with genotype and diet was more important for G₂ than G₁ chicks. Genotype accounted for maximum variability for growth and feed efficiency. G₂ was found to be more sensitive to climatic and nutritional variability than G₁ genotype.