GENETIC PARAMETERS OF RHODE ISLAND RED AND WHITE CHICKENS AND THEIR RECIPROCAL CROSSES

GENETIC PARAMETERS OF RHODE ISLAND RED AND WHITE CHICKENS AND THEIR RECIPROCAL CROSSES

Abstract:

The genetic parameters derived from 695 F1 progenies of two strains of Rhode Island chickens and their reciprocal crosses were compared. The least square analysis of variance was used in comparing the four genetic groups. While a one-way random model was used in estimating the genetic parameters. Variables used for analysis comprised body weight at time of hatch (B-0); four (B-4); eight (B-8); twelve(B- 12); sixteen (B-16); twenty (B-20); forty(B-40); weeks of age and at sexual maturity (BSM), age at sexual maturity (ASM), first egg weight (FEWT), Average egg weight (AEWT), 280 days egg production (EN280D), Average shape index (ASI), shell thickness (AST); Haugh Unit (AHU) and yolk index (AYI) measured on each pullet. The results indicated that strain crossing improved B-12, B-16, B-20; decreased ASM; increased EN280D and improved ASI, AHU and AYI. The RxW cross was better than its reciprocal cross and also show maximum heterosis in the desirable direction in the above traits. The heretability estimates obtained ranged from -0.42 to 1.33, -0.07 to 1.10, 0.03 to 0.89, -0.18 to 1.56 for RxR, WxW, RxW and WxR genetic groups, respectively. Generally, heritability estimates were higher in the crossbred than purebred for most body weight traits, ASM, EN280D and some egg quality traits based on the sire’s parent breed. The results are consistent with the notion that there were genetic differences between the purebred males that affects the production characteristics of their crossbred progeny differently than their purebred progeny. The results indicated that non-additive genetic variation exist for various component of egg laying production which can be exploited through selection based on cross-line performance. Sex-linkage effect was found to be more important than maternal effect. This indicated that a specialised male female line is required for maximium production. The genetic correlation was positive between early body weight (B-8,B-20) and EN280D, ASM and AEWT. whereas EN280D and early body wieght were negatively correlated with ASM and AEWT.This indicated that selection of chickens can be done at early age based on body weight without any detrimental effect on ASM and EN280D. It was concluded, based on the results that RxW cross is the best genetic group for commercial exploitation.It’s production can be improved by selection based on both pure and crossbred progeny.

GENETIC PARAMETERS OF RHODE ISLAND RED AND WHITE CHICKENS AND THEIR RECIPROCAL CROSSES

Sharing is caring!