Comparative Performance Evaluation and Genetic Potential of Frizzle and Deshi Dwarf Chicken Under Intensive...

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Genetics
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Indigenous chicken genotypes are crucial for sustainable poultry production.
• Frizzle and Deshi Dwarf are two distinct indigenous chicken breeds with unique genetic traits.
• Understanding their performance under intensive systems is vital for breed improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the phenotypic characteristics of Frizzle and Deshi Dwarf chickens.
• To evaluate and contrast the production and reproduction performance of these genotypes.
• To identify superior indigenous chicken breeds for intensive management systems.

Main Methods:

• Morphometric measurements (beak, chest girth, keel, wing, body, shank length) were recorded.
• Production traits (live weight, egg weight, age at first laying) were monitored.
• Reproductive parameters (fertility, hatchability) were assessed for both genotypes.
• Statistical analysis (SAS) was employed to compare genotype performance.

Main Results:

• Deshi Dwarf chickens exhibited higher mean live weights (1073.7g) compared to Frizzle chickens (965.35g) at 20 weeks.
• Deshi Dwarf chickens reached sexual maturity earlier (20.95 weeks) than Frizzle chickens (23.25 weeks).
• Higher fertility (91%) and hatchability (86%) were observed in Deshi Dwarf chickens compared to Frizzle (82% and 78%, respectively).
• Significant positive correlations were found between various morphometric traits and body weight within each genotype.

Conclusions:

• Deshi Dwarf chickens are more promising for intensive rearing systems due to superior growth, reproduction, and production traits.
• The findings provide valuable data for decision-making to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of indigenous chicken farming.
• Breed selection based on performance metrics is crucial for optimizing poultry production under intensive management.