Biometrical studies of linear growth traits in five sexed chicken breeds from South-western, Nigeria

Abstract

Growth is the most important factor considered in determining the productivity of livestock species where breed and sex among others have been implicated to affect this physiological function. It becomes imperative to conduct biometrical studies on these birds to evaluate the effect of breed and sex on their morphometric traits for improved production efficiencies using different functions. 300-day-old chicks comprising 3-indigenous and 2-exotic meat-type chickens used for the study were obtained from reputable hatcheries. Birds were distributed based on their breed and sex into three replicates at 10 birds each. They were fed the experimental diet ad-libitum during the study period. Experimental design was the RCBD and body linear morphometric studies were carried out for 8 weeks period. The birds were managed intensively and measurements were taken from each bird weekly using digital weighing scale and graduated measuring tape. Data generated were analyzed on computer using SAS. Result showed that breed significantly (p<0.05) influenced body weights which ranged from 1108.21g(NF) to 1992.55g(MB). Males were heavier (1614gv1439g) in weight and longer in linear body traits (9.33v8.88cmSHL), (14.68v14.39cmDSL), (16.72v16.19cmNTS), (20.32v19.59cmTRL), (22.73v21.80cmSTL), (27.84v26.83cmBRG) and (20.89v20.74cmWGL) than the female chickens. Breast girth contributed highest to body weight and hence the best predictor based on R2 value. It was recommended that researchers intensify effort at improving the growth performance of the Nigerian indigenous chickens for greater meat production using male breast girth of naked neck chickens with appropriate growth gene. Naked neck chickens should be considered for incorporation as meat producing indigenous chicken breed.