Egg production curves and their prediction through mathematical models in a random-bred broiler breeder control population

Six mathematical models, namely, Logistic, MMF, Polynomial Fit, Rational Function, Sinusoidal Fit and Quadratic fit were selected and fitted to the weekly hen housed egg production from 19 to 52 weeks of age of two generations of a random-bred broiler breeder control line. The efficiency or reliability of the models was obtained by the coefficients of determination (R²) as per the Least

Squares curve fit method and Chi-square test of significance was carried out to test the goodness of fit of the models identified. On account of their simple form, the high coefficient of determination and the non-significance of Chi-square values, Rational Function (R²:

94.08–97.22%) and Polynomial Fit (R²: 93.26–96.67%) were identified to be the best fitting models that could be conveniently used for predictive purposes in the control line.