Variability and predictability of productive and body traits of Fulani ecotype chicken

Abstract

Improvement of the domestic chicken has dominated the effort of indigenous breeders in Nigeria in recent times. Three hundred and fifty-seven (357) Fulani ecotype chickens were surveyed and assessed for their phenotypic and productive characteristics in Osun State, Nigeria. Mature weight (kg), comb size, wattle size, breast length, breast width, leg length (all in cm); egg weight (gm), clutch size were examined and classified. A higher level of variability was revealed in comb size, wattle size, egg weight, and clutch size within the hen population of each local government; and in leg length within Orolu cocks and hens as shown by their coefficient of variation (CV), respectively. Strong and significant association was observed between mature weight and wattle size, mature weight and comb size, and between wattle size and comb size in the cocks; and between egg weight and egg clutch size in hens. Breast length and breast width were best predictors of each other while mature weight was best predicted by wattle size in cocks. Breast length was predicted by mature weight and leg length, breast width was predicted by mature weight and, mature weight was predicted by the combination of leg length, breast length and breast width in hens. All parameters were more accurately predicted in cocks than in hens. Statistical modelling revealed sexual dimorphism on all equations.