Growth Traits and Phenotypic Correlations of Body Weight and Linear Body Traits in F1 Progenies of Local x Exotic Chickens

Abstract

This study examined the body weight, linear body traits and phenotypic correlation among linear body traits of crossbred progenies of indigenous chickens. A total number of 218 F1 progenies were generated from the crosses involving normal feathered local black and brown cocks (3 each from black and brown cocks), and 12 Cobb and Abor acre exotic breeder layers respectively in the mating ratio of 1:4. Data obtained were subjected to an independent t-test using SPSS package. Results revealed significant (P<0.05) genotypic effects on body weight and linear body traits, with Na x COB (normal feathered local cock x Cobb exotic breeder layer) consistently outperforming Na x AA (normal feathered local cock x Abor acre exotic breeder layer) in body weight and linear body traits at each age. In week 8, for instance, Na x COB achieved a mean body weight of 1430.00+20.00g and exhibited superior measurements in body length, wing length, and breast girth, indicating genetic influence on growth traits. Phenotypic correlations between body weight and linear body traits were also strong, particularly in Na x COB, showing that traits like thigh girth and wing length have high predictive potential for body weight. The strong positive correlations suggest pleiotropic effects, making these traits reliable indirect selection criteria for improving body weight. These findings underscore the value of genetic crosses for enhancing growth traits in indigenous chicken lines, presenting potential strategies for targeted breeding programs.