AN ALGORITHM TO FIT THE GOMPERTZ FUNCTION TO GROWTH-CURVES

An algorithm to fit the Gompertz growth function is presented. This algorithm is easy to program on a microcomputer. The algorithm is based on employing a searching technique to solve a set of equations derived from the Gompertz function. Its application may prove valuable when access to a computer mainframe is difficult. Such a method may be useful in construction of a specific growth curve in biology, or as a managerial tool in livestock enterprise, as well as in the clinical treatment of tumors. Demonstration of the successful application of this algorithm in experimental livestock growth data are presented.