Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Primary Endodermal Epithelial Cell Culture from the Yolk Sac Membrane of Japanese Quail Embryos
Published on: March 10, 2016
Genetic parameters for feed utilization traits in Japanese quail
S Varkoohi1, A Pakdel, M Moradi Shahr Babak
1Department of Animal Science, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran. s.varkoohi@gmail.com
Genetic improvement of feed efficiency in Japanese quail is possible. Selection for low feed conversion ratio (FCR) is genetically linked to higher body weight gain and lower feed intake, but differs from residual feed intake (RFI).
Area of Science:
- Animal Genetics
- Poultry Science
- Quantitative Genetics
Background:
- Feed costs significantly impact poultry operational efficiency.
- Genetic improvement of feed utilization is crucial for optimizing poultry production.
- Understanding genetic parameters of feed efficiency traits is essential for effective selection programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate genetic variance for 4-week feed conversion ratio (FCR) in Japanese quail.
- To determine genetic correlations between FCR and body weight (BW), weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI), and residual feed intake (RFI).
- To evaluate the potential for genetic improvement of feed utilization traits in quail.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from a Japanese quail line selected for low FCR over three generations.
- Recording of BW and WG on 1,226 individuals and FCR, RFI, and FI on 505 family groups.
- Estimation of heritability and genetic correlations using established quantitative genetic methods.
Main Results:
- Significant heritability estimates for BW (0.22 ± 0.05) and WG (0.28 ± 0.06) were observed.
- Significant genetic variances were found for FI, FCR, and RFI.
- Low FCR showed a negative genetic correlation with WG (-0.45 ± 0.09) and a positive correlation with FI (0.24 ± 0.08).
- The genetic correlation between FCR and RFI (0.26 ± 0.08) indicated they are distinct traits with moderate correlated responses.
- RFI exhibited low genetic correlation with WG (0.08 ± 0.04) and a high correlation with FI (0.74 ± 0.11).
Conclusions:
- All analyzed traits exhibit significant genetic variance, enabling genetic improvement through selection in Japanese quail.
- Feed conversion ratio (FCR) and residual feed intake (RFI) possess different genetic characteristics, suggesting distinct selection strategies.
- Selection for improved feed efficiency can be effectively pursued in Japanese quail, considering the genetic relationships between FCR, WG, FI, and RFI.
Related Concept Videos
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Heritability
Incomplete Dominance
Multiple Allele Traits
Multiple Allele Traits
Hardy-Weinberg Principle

