Growth performance and muscle histological characteristics of IPB-D3 chickens reared under intensive and free-range systems

This study provides the first histological characterization of IPB-D3 chickens, demonstrating that both rearing systems support comparable growth performance. Free-range rearing enhances thigh muscle hypertrophy and type IIX fiber development, whereas intensive rearing increases collagen deposition. These findings suggest that IPB-D3 chickens are adaptable to diverse production environments. Further studies should explore Myosin heavy chain gene expression, longitudinal muscle growth, and meat texture properties to improve sustainable rearing strategies and meat quality optimization for Indonesian local chicken development.