JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND VETERINARY MEDICINE
Integrity Research Journals
ISSN: 2536-7099
Model: Open Access/Peer Reviewed
DOI: 10.31248/JASVM
Start Year: 2016
Email: jasvm@integrityresjournals.org
Phenotypic variations in local chickens: Influence of strain and sex on morphometric traits
https://doi.org/10.31248/JASVM2025.555 | Article Number: 5DAC7BD42 | Vol.10 (2) - April 2025
Received Date: 30 March 2025 | Accepted Date: 15 April 2025 | Published Date: 30 April 1999
Authors: Okon, B.* , Ibom, L. A. , Dauda, A. and Udayi, M.
This study evaluated the influence of strain and sex on the phenotypic traits of local chickens. A total of 150 chickens were used, comprising 50 chickens each from three strains (Frizzle, Naked Neck and Normal-feathered), with an equal distribution of 25 males and 25 females per strain. The phenotypic traits measured included body weight (BW), body length (BL), shank length (SHL), chest circumference (CC), wing span (WS) and drumstick length (DS). The data collected were analysed using the Statistical Analysis System (SAS), and significance was determined at p <0.05. The results revealed significant differences among the strains, with Normal-feathered chickens exhibiting superior growth performance in most traits, followed by Naked Neck and Frizzle strains. Males generally had higher values than females in all measured traits, demonstrating sexual dimorphism. Correlation analysis showed strong positive relationships among several traits, particularly between BW and BL (r=0.617**), BW and SHL (r=0.638**) and DS and SHL (r=0.702**), indicating that selection for one trait could enhance others. These findings provide crucial insights for genetic selection and breeding programmes aimed at improving the productivity and adaptability of indigenous chickens. The superior performance of the Normal-feathered and Naked Neck strains suggests their potential for commercial and rural poultry production. Further research should explore molecular markers linked to these traits to optimize breeding strategies for sustainable poultry development.
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