International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation  |  ISSN (Online): 2582-7138  |  Double-Blind Peer Review  |  Open Access  |  CC BY 4.0

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     2026:7/3

International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation

ISSN (Online): 2582-7138 | Open Access

System-Specific Growth Curve Characterization in Austrolope Chickens: A Robust Comparison of Brody, Gompertz, and Logistic Nonlinear Models

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Volume: 7 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 233-240

Subject: Animal Science

Country: Zimbabwe

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMRGE.2026.7.1.233-240

License: CC BY 4.0

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Abstract

Nonlinear growth modeling offers a robust framework for evaluating poultry performance under diverse management systems. This study compared Brody, Gompertz, and Logistic models in describing the body weight–age relationship of Austrolope chickens reared under lucerne supplementation and scavenging systems. Weekly body weights were collected from week 14 to week 62 and analyzed using nonlinear regression. Model performance was evaluated using the coefficient of determination (R²), root mean square error (RMSE), and Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), with residual analyses confirming unbiased predictions. Results revealed distinct system-specific growth patterns: lucerne-fed chickens exhibited rapid growth, an earlier inflection point, and higher asymptotic weights, whereas scavenging birds demonstrated slower, protracted growth trajectories. The Logistic model best described lucerne-fed birds, accurately capturing the sigmoidal growth curve, while the Brody model was most suitable for scavenging birds. These findings underscore the importance of management-specific growth modeling for accurate prediction of mature weight, optimization of feeding strategies, and development of targeted breeding programs. Aligning growth models with production context enhances both biological interpretation and practical utility, providing actionable insights for smallholder and semi-intensive poultry systems.

How to Cite This Article

Never Assan, Maphios Mpofu, Abbegal Dube, Edward Manda Mkokora (2026). System-Specific Growth Curve Characterization in Austrolope Chickens: A Robust Comparison of Brody, Gompertz, and Logistic Nonlinear Models . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE), 7(1), 233-240. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54660/IJMRGE.2026.7.1.233-240

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Publication Information

Journal: International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE)

Publisher: Anfo Publication House

ISSN: 2582-7138 (Online)

Frequency: Bimonthly

Language: English

Open Access: Yes - This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License

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