The effect of gender on growth performance, live weight gain, growth pattern modeling and, survival rate in Turkish native geese of the Kars region

Abstract

Objective: This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the impact of gender on various aspects of growth performance in Turkish native geese, specifically in the Kars region. Materials and Methods: A total of 62 goslings, comprising 25 males and 37 females, were monitored over 12 weeks. The study focused on growth performance, live weight gain, survival rates, and growth pattern modeling. Results: The results from the two-way analysis of variance highlighted a statistically significant gender effect on growth performance (P < 0.05), with males consistently exhibiting notably higher live weights during weigh-ins. Significant gender disparities were evident in growth performance both on the hatching day (P < 0.01) and during weeks 6 to 12 (P < 0.05). Remarkably, male geese displayed significantly higher daily live weight gains during weeks 5 to 6 (P < 0.05). Linear regression analyses emphasized gender's influence on live weight gain, with female geese demonstrating an R² value of 0.9044 (P < 0.001) and male geese showing an R² value of 0.8912 (P < 0.001). Gompertz growth models unveiled distinctive growth patterns. In females, an R² value of 0.9300 highlighted their growth trajectory, while males exhibited an R² value of 0.9194. Survival rates after a 12-week period were 81.7% for females and 80.0% for males. Conclusion: In conclusion, this meticulous exploration of the impact of gender on growth trajectories underscores the significant role it plays.