Research Article

Modeling of Growth in Gerze Chicken Breed and Determination of the Best-Fitting Growth Model

Volume: 29 Number: 1 January 1, 2026
EN TR

Modeling of Growth in Gerze Chicken Breed and Determination of the Best-Fitting Growth Model

Abstract

In this study, the growth curves of Gerze chickens, one of Turkey’s native poultry breeds, were analyzed using different nonlinear mathematical models to determine the best-fitting growth function specific to each sex. A total of 90 birds were used, and weekly body weight data were recorded. The effect of sex on the growth process was evaluated through profile analysis. Growth data were modeled using Gompertz, Logistic, Richards, Janoschek, Levakovich, and Von Bertalanffy functions, and goodness-of-fit criteria (R², adjusted R², MSE, AIC, and BIC) were calculated. The Von Bertalanffy model provided the best fit for females, with a β₀ estimate of 1928.9 g and a low standard error of 10.6, while the Gompertz model was identified as the most suitable growth curve for males, with a β₀ value of 2508 g and a standard error of only 10. The findings clearly highlight the significant effect of sex on growth dynamics and emphasize the necessity of sex-specific modeling approaches in genetic improvement programs for local genotypes.

Keywords

Supporting Institution

TÜBİTAK 2209-A Research Project Support Program for University Students

Thanks

The study was supported by the TÜBİTAK 2209-A Research Project Support Program for University Students. We would like to thank TÜBİTAK for its contributions.

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Poultry Farming and Treatment

Journal Section

Research Article

Early Pub Date

October 18, 2025

Publication Date

January 1, 2026

Submission Date

June 24, 2025

Acceptance Date

August 25, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 29 Number: 1

APA
Alitkan, O., Karaduman, E., Yapıcı, N., & Narinç, D. (2026). Modeling of Growth in Gerze Chicken Breed and Determination of the Best-Fitting Growth Model. Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Tarım Ve Doğa Dergisi, 29(1), 238-248. https://doi.org/10.18016/ksutarimdoga.vi.1725968


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