Abstract

This study was carried out with the aim of determining magnitude of G x E interaction for body weights for Kuchi chicken ecotype of Tanzania reared under intensive on-station and extensive free-range management systems Body weight was assessed at 8 Bwt8 12 Bwt12 16 Bwt16 and 20 Bwt20 weeks of age Results for this study indicated average performance in all body weight measurements was significantly higher under intensive management compared to extensive management P 0 001 signifying two diverse environment and hence possibility for G x E interaction Based on magnitude of genetic correlation for the same trait measured in two environments rg G x E interaction for all body weight measurements were found to be substantial i e biologically important Value for rg was 0 745 0 757 0 752 and 0 753 for Bwt8 Bwt12 Bwt16 and Bwt20 respectively Since breeding program for improving performance of the ecotype would be more feasible under intensive management and hence more likely to take place under such environment based on results of this study if such breeding program is to be implemented sensitization of smallholder farmers beneficiaries of the breeding program to shift from their current system of management extensive management to at least semiintensive system of management is recommended for minimizing the effect of G x E interaction