ABSTRACT

This experiment was conducted to compare the egg production performances of three layer strains, namely FUNAAB-Alpha, ISA-Brown and Bovan-Nera. The number of birds used for the study was 36 pullets per strain. The 36 pullets in each strain were divided randomly into 3 replicates and assigned into pens. The parameters measured were: body weight on arrival (17 weeks), at first egg and at 32 weeks, age at first egg, egg weight, and egg number. The experiment was a completely randomized design, and data collected were subjected to analysis of variance. FUNAAB-Alpha was significantly (p<0.05) superior to ISA Brown and Bovan-Nera on body weight at 17 weeks, first egg and 32 weeks, in age at first egg, as well as in hen-day and hen-housed egg production. However, ISA Brown and Bovan-Nera were significantly (p<0.05) more efficient in converting feed to eggs than FUNAAB-Alpha. ISA Brown produced the heaviest eggs (p<0.05) on average, followed by the Bovan-Nera and FUNAAB-Alpha. In view of the genetic variability recorded in egg production in this study, the FUNAAB-Alpha and Bovan-Nera are recommended for use by farmers for their adaptability to the tropical environment.