Genetic growth potential characterization in the Japanese quail: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Genetics
• Quantitative Biology

Background:

• Characterizing the genetic potential of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) is crucial for global breeding programs.
• Previous studies have investigated Japanese quail growth, but a comprehensive meta-analysis is needed to understand international variations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the genetic potential of Japanese quails through a meta-analysis of international studies.
• To identify factors influencing growth parameter variability in Japanese quails.
• To compare growth characteristics between Japanese quails raised in Brazil and other countries.

Main Methods:

• A meta-analysis was conducted using data from published studies on Coturnix coturnix japonica.
• The Gompertz function was applied to estimate growth parameters: body weight at maturity (Wm), body weight at birth (Wi), maturity rate (B), and inflection point (IP).
• Random regression, exploratory, grouping, and principal component analyses were used to interpret growth data and identify variations.

Main Results:

• Significant variability was observed in Japanese quail growth parameters, including Wi (4.1–11.6 g), B (0.0393–0.1039/day), t* (14–31 days), and IP (9.21–31.03 g).
• The maturity rate (B) showed the highest specificity when comparing quails from Brazil to those from other countries.
• In Brazil, a decreased maturity rate was observed alongside higher weight at maturity, suggesting distinct genetic selection strategies.

Conclusions:

• Considerable genetic variation exists in Japanese quail growth potential across different countries.
• Maturity rate is a key parameter influenced by distinct genetic selection strategies, particularly evident when comparing Brazil to other regions.
• Further research into specific genetic selection practices is warranted to fully understand and optimize Japanese quail growth performance.