Heritability, Repeatability and Association of Linear Body Traits of Nigerian Guinea Fowl at Different Ages

Abstract

This research was designed to estimate heritability, repeatability and association of body weight and linear body traits (LBTs) of Nigerian guinea fowl. A Total of 717 keets obtained from a mating between 48 dams and specific sires were used for the study. Heritability and repeatability estimates were obtained from sire variance components; Pearson correlation and stepwise multiple regression analyses were carried out among linear traits [breast length (BL), shank length (SL), thigh length (TL) and body circumference (BC)]. Data was collected at 4, 8 and 12 weeks of age. Results showed that heritability and repeatability estimates for BW, BC and BL were highest at 12 weeks and lowest at 4 weeks. Heritability estimates for BW recorded were 0.45 and 0.86 at weeks 8 and 12, respectively, and 0.82 for BC at 12 weeks. Repeatability estimates varied between 0.18 to 0.46 at 8 and 12 weeks of age respectively. Coefficient of determination of BW by LBTs was high at weeks 8 and 12 of age. The combination of BC, BL and SL were the best predictors of BW (R2 =.848). Findings of this research show that guinea fowls can be selected by employing mass selection from 8 weeks of age. Estimates of heritability and repeatability obtained in this research can serve as a reference point for the selection and improvement of this bird. Selecting guinea fowls at 12 weeks of age based only on BC, BC and BL, and BC, SL, and TL will yield high genetic improvements.