Genetic Analysis Of The First Eight Weeks Body Measurements Of Hubbard Broiler Breeder Chickens In Shika, Nigeria

📄 Project Abstract

This study "Genetic analysis of the first eight weeks body measurements of Hubbard broiler breeder chickens in Shika Nigeria" was undertaken to estimate the genetic parameters of body weights and linear measurements at different ages and to ascertain the extent to which linear body measurements could best predict weight at 8 weeks. Data from 160 Hubbard broiler breeders at the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) Shika, Zaria was used for the study. Bi-weekly linear body measurements in centimeters were taken using a measuring tape, while body weights measured in grams were taken weekly for 8 weeks using a digital scale. Body conformation traits measured included; back length, chest circumference, chicken height and shank length. The heritability (h2) estimates for body weight and conformation traits from 2 to 8 weeks were low to moderate. Genetic correlations for body weight ranged from low to high but were positive in most cases except for correlations between 1 and,...