Selection indexes for improved weaning and marketing body weights of the Burundi local rabbits

Abstract. Estimates of genetic and phenotypic parameters for growth-related traits involving body weights at 4, 6 (weaning), 8 and 10 (marketing) weeks of age and average daily gains from 4- to 6- and 6- to 10-weeks of age (postweaning daily gain) were computed on 193 males of the Burundian local rabbits . Estimates were then used for constructing thirteen selection indexes, involved body weights at 4, 6 and 10 weeks of age and daily gains, to improve body weights of rabbits at weaning and marketing.

The use of weaning weight in an index combined with body weight at 4 weeks of age (W₄) and posuveaning average daily gain (index₁₂) or postweaning daily gain solely (index₂) resulted in a relative efficiency of about 100 % as using weaning weight combined with body weights at 4 and 10 weeks of age (index,) or with marketing body weight (index₂) or W4 (index₃). The accuracy of selection (r_TI) using these indexes ranged between 0.890 and 0.906. They lead to a progress in weaning weight from 77–79 g and in marketing weight from 54–56 g. However, from a practical stand point, selection on index 3, including W₄ and weaning weight, or on index 5, including weaning weight alone, could be recommended for improving both weaning and marketing weights of Burundian local rabbits.