Egg quality characteristics and phenotypic correlations among egg quality traits in the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens raised under intensive management system
Abstract— Strains found among Tswana chicken population include the naked neck, dwarf, frizzled, rumpless and normal-feathered (normal). Internal and external egg quality characteristics and phenotypic correlations among egg quality traits in different strains of Tswana chickens under intensive management have never been evaluated. The study was conducted to determine the internal and external egg quality characteristics of the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chicken. A total of 200, 185 and 175 eggs were collected from the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains, respectively, for external and internal egg quality analysis. No significant differences in albumin height, albumen pH and yolk pH were found between the strains. The naked neck strain however produced eggs with the highest egg weight, albumen weight, albumen content, egg volume and egg surface area and the lowest yolk content. The dwarf strain had the lowest egg weight, albumin weight, egg volume, and egg surface area and the highest egg shell thickness.All the three strains of Tswana chicken produced eggs of acceptable quality. The naked neck strain however had the best egg quality characteristics, followed by the normal strain and lastly the dwarf strain. Of the three strains, the naked neck strain had the strongest correlation coefficients among external and internal egg quality characteristics and between external and internal egg quality characteristics. Egg weight was positively and highly correlated with other egg quality traits such as egg length, egg width, egg volume, egg surface area, albumen weight and yolk weight in the three strains of Tswana chicken. Selection for higher egg weight is likely to lead to the greatest improvements in other egg quality characteristics (both internal and external) in the naked neck than in the normal and dwarf strains.
Quality Characteristics, Phenotypic correlations and Principal Component Anal...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
The aim of this study was to characterize indigenous chicken eggs and create an inventory that will set a base for designing breeding programs to improve egg quality traits. 338 eggs of mixed breeds of indigenous chickens from small scale farmers in Lusaka were collected and used in this study. A number of external and internal traits were measured manually. The eggs had a weight of 49±0.44g with a length of 54.55mm and 40.31mm wide. Other traits measured included egg shell weight and length, with the egg shell accounting for 12.78% of the total weight of the egg. The egg albumin and egg yolk weighed 26.21g and 16.55g respectively. The egg weight positively correlated with all the traits studied. A principal component analysis on these traits extracted three principal components that accounted 75.80%. The diversity shown by these eggs shows a huge potential for improvements of egg quality characteristics through proper selection and breeding.
Economics of production and egg quality characteristics of Layer Chickens Fed...AI Publications
The study evaluated the effect of prosopis africana seed coat meal (PASCM) on the economics of production and egg quality characteristics of three hundred (300) Nera brown layer chickens thatwere fed for 39 weeks. The birds were randomly allotted to 5 experimental diets with 3 replications of 20 birds each. The diets were formulated with the inclusion of PASCM at 0, 15, 20, 25 and 30% levels for treatments T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively and the data collected were subjected to analysis of Variance in a completely randomized design. Results obtained showed that in the economics of egg production, egg/hen/day, egg sales/day (₦) and profit/day (₦) decreased with increased PASCM inclusion in the diets. While most of the egg quality parameters were affected (P < 0.05) by the dietary treatments, except egg weight, egg length, shell thickness and egg shape index. The economics of production and egg quality characteristics showed that 20% PASCM inclusion level resulted in optimum production and hence this level is recommended for adoption.
Quality Characteristics, Phenotypic correlations and Principal Component Anal...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
The aim of this study was to characterize indigenous chicken eggs and create an inventory that will set a base for designing breeding programs to improve egg quality traits. 338 eggs of mixed breeds of indigenous chickens from small scale farmers in Lusaka were collected and used in this study. A number of external and internal traits were measured manually. The eggs had a weight of 49±0.44g with a length of 54.55mm and 40.31mm wide. Other traits measured included egg shell weight and length, with the egg shell accounting for 12.78% of the total weight of the egg. The egg albumin and egg yolk weighed 26.21g and 16.55g respectively. The egg weight positively correlated with all the traits studied. A principal component analysis on these traits extracted three principal components that accounted 75.80%. The diversity shown by these eggs shows a huge potential for improvements of egg quality characteristics through proper selection and breeding.
Economics of production and egg quality characteristics of Layer Chickens Fed...AI Publications
The study evaluated the effect of prosopis africana seed coat meal (PASCM) on the economics of production and egg quality characteristics of three hundred (300) Nera brown layer chickens thatwere fed for 39 weeks. The birds were randomly allotted to 5 experimental diets with 3 replications of 20 birds each. The diets were formulated with the inclusion of PASCM at 0, 15, 20, 25 and 30% levels for treatments T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively and the data collected were subjected to analysis of Variance in a completely randomized design. Results obtained showed that in the economics of egg production, egg/hen/day, egg sales/day (₦) and profit/day (₦) decreased with increased PASCM inclusion in the diets. While most of the egg quality parameters were affected (P < 0.05) by the dietary treatments, except egg weight, egg length, shell thickness and egg shape index. The economics of production and egg quality characteristics showed that 20% PASCM inclusion level resulted in optimum production and hence this level is recommended for adoption.
Effects of Feeding Whole Cottonseed, Cotton Seed Cake and Guizotia abyssinica...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
— The present study was designed to investigate the effect of feeding whole cotton seed, of Gossipium hirustum spp (WCS), cottonseed cake (CSC) and noug seed cake (NSC) on blood serum parameters of growing male goats. Twenty four Arsi-Bale growing male goats of 6-12 months of age were assigned at random to four dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design. The dietary treatments were; (T1) local grass hay only (control), (T2) control +20% WCS, (T3) control+30% CSC all amount on total daily DMI basis and (T4) control + recommended level noug seed cake(50% wheat bran (WB) and 49% NSC). Blood samples were collected in 10ml vactainer tube by jugular vein puncture every 30, 60 and 90 days of the experimental days and were allowed to clot at room temperature and centrifuged for 15minutesat 3000 rpm. The separated serum samples were stored in a deep freezer at-20 o C until they were analyzed. Te samples were analyzed for serum parameters: albumin, total protein, glucose, urea nitrogen, creatinine and alkaline phosphate Significant (P<0.05)>0.05) difference between treatments were observed in the levels of total serum protein and glucose. Moreover, no visible clinical sign of gossypol toxicity was observed on the experimental goats fed WCS and CSC during the 90 days of the experimental period. Hence, it was concluded that supplementation of growing male goat diets with recommended levels of NSC,20 and 30% WCS and CSC respectively have no adverse effect on blood serum parameters of growing male goats. Keywords— blood serum parameters, cotton seed cake, goats, noug seed cake, whole cottonseed.
Can shape of egg and texture determine sex and fertility in Guinea fowl (Numi...Yakubu Abukari
Traditional rural farmers have their indigenous knowledge of obtaining and maintaining fertility in guinea fowl through shape of the weight and shape of the egg
Correlation and path analysis for genetic divergence of morphological and fib...Innspub Net
Seventy five genotypes of cultivated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) were studied for morphological characteristics i-e plant height, monopodial branches, sympodial branches, boll weight, seed volume, seed density, seed index and fiber characters. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and estimates were made for genetic advance, broad sense heritability and coefficient of variance for the traits. ANOVA revealed highly significant variability among genotypes for all the characteristics studied. The estimates for heritability were
higher for seed index (0.93) and plant height (0.93). The highest value (6.4) for genetic advance was observed for
sympodial branches whereas lowest value was (0.17) for boll weight. Correlation analysis revealed positive and significant for most of the parameters. In path coefficient, the number of sympodial branches, boll weight, lint index and lint weight had maximum direct and positive effect on fiber fineness of seed cotton. Whereas, the number of monopodial branches, plant height, seed index, seed volume, seed density, staple length, fiber strength and ginning out turn (G.O.T%) had direct and negative effects on fiber of seed cotton. The principle component analysis (PCA) revealed significant differences between genotypes and the first four components with Eigen
values greater than 1 contributed 66.68% of the variability among the genotypes. The grouping of genotypes
possessing excelled traits signifies genetic potential of the germplasm for the improvement of seed and fiber characteristics in cotton crop. Get more articles at: http://www.innspub.net/volume-7-number-4-october-2015-ijaar/
Population Structure & Genetic Improvement in LivestockGolden Helix Inc
The genetic improvement of livestock has been a hot topic for almost a century, bringing together researchers, industry, and producers to work towards a common goal. Many countries currently employ extensive genetic selection programs in their cattle with pigs, sheep, and chicken close behind.
In this webcast, Heather J. Huson, Ph.D. from Cornell University will focus on population dynamics and trait association in cattle and goats using high density SNP datasets. Population structure plays a critical role in understanding the relatedness among livestock, ancestral origins of traits, and identification of unique sub-populations or breeds for production improvement and conservation. This also lays the foundation for understanding and improving species such as the goat which is a vital food source in developing countries but has little recorded production or health data.
Understanding population structure is essential for designing complex trait association studies such as those related to production and health characteristics. Here, Huson shows examples of her lab's investigation into population structure in both goats and cattle to identify distinct groups and study traits such as thermo-tolerance.
Genetic Studies of Grain Yield and other Agronomic Traits of Low-N Maize (Zea...Premier Publishers
Ten low-N open pollinated maize varieties were converted to inbred line after six generations of selfing and used to study the genetic effects of grain yield and other agronomic traits. The 10 inbred lines were crossed in all possible combinations to generate 90 F1 hybrids (45 crosses and 45 reciprocals). The 90 F1 along with their parents were evaluated at the Teaching and Research Farms of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti and Osun State University, Ejigbo in 2017, using two environments created by levels of N (low and high). The design at each location was a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with two replicates. Data were collected on plant height, ear height, days to 50% anthesis, days to 50% silking, incidence of curvularia leaf spot, blight, plant aspect, ear aspect, ear rot, stay green, cob per plant, ear weight, grain moisture content and grain yield. All data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance. Specific combining ability (SCA) and general combing ability (GCA) were obtained for the traits. The mean yield of the hybrids (6,444.42 t/ha) and reciprocal (5,971.64 t/ha) were significantly higher than their parents (2,212.84 t/ha). Significant GCA, SCA and reciprocal were recorded for all traits. Hybrids showed better performance compared with parental lines demonstrating heterotic effect. The ratio of GCA/SCA mean square revealed that non-additive gene action was more important for all the traits except ear height, blight, stay green and cob per plant. The estimate of GCA and SCA in this study provides the maize breeder with information to determine which lines to select to improve elite varieties and which parent lines should be used for making hybrids with greater grain yield under condition of low soil N.
Genomic aided selection for crop improvementtanvic2
In last Several years novel genetic and genomics approaches are expended. Genetics and genomics have greatly enhanced our understanding of the structural and functional aspects of plant genomes.
Problems and prospects of hybrid pigeonpea in india Vipin Pandey
Pulses occupy an important place in Indian agriculture. Within this protein-rich group of crops, red gram or pigeonpea occupies an important place among rainfed resource poor farmers because it provides quality food, fuel wood and fodder.
Pigeonpea breeding started at 1933, first time studied morphological and agronomic traits of 86 elite indigenous pigeonpea germplasm accessions and they find some of the accessions were having high level of resistance to wilt (Shaw et al., 1933).
Hybrids are plants that result from controlled cross-breeding of two different but specific varieties or breeding lines of the same species of plant. Male pollen is transferred to the female pistil to achieve pollination, thus forming a seed. The result is what is called an F1 hybrid. Male sterility is refers to a condition in which pollen is either absent or non-functional in flowering plants. Hybrid seed production of pigeonpea are using
Genetic Male Sterility and first hybrid variety of pigeonpea are released but some problems related to Genetic Male Sterility based hybrid seed production are low amount of hybrid seed production (50%), roughing of fertile counterpart of female (cost increasing), lack of necked eye marker for male sterility (linked marker), difficult to maintain genetic purity (Saxena, K. B., 2015).
The per capita availability of protein in the country is already one third of its requirement and cultivated area are also decreased it is important to enhance its productivity in nearly future. So future prospects of hybrid pigeonpea are, we can make more stable hybrid, we can use wild relatives for stress tolerance breeding (Choudhary et al., 2011), utilize the genomic resources and breeding for special traits. Pigeonpea has a genome size 833Mb and is the first non-industrial food legume crop for which draft genome sequence has been developed (Varshney et al., 2012).
Effect of Genotype on Body Conformation and Udder Morphometrics in Milking Da...YogeshIJTSRD
Bodyweight is one of most important economical traits in dairy cattle and is affected by different environmental factors. One of genetic factors that affects cow conformation traits, is the breed effect. The aim in this study was to determine how breed of cattle affect morphological traits in cattle. In this study, bodyweight BW , seven body traits Body weight, BW Body condition score, BCS stature, ST chest width, CW body depth, BD heart girth, HG rump width, RW , five udder traits chest ligament, CL rear udder height, RUH rear udder width, RUW udder clearance, UC teat length, TL were analyzed. Analysis of variance procedures of R 3.0.3 statistical software was used to test the breed and significance difference in means were separated using Tukey test. In hot climate of Kwara State, the effects of genotype significantly influence body weight, body depth, heart girth and rear udder depth. The crosses of Holstein Friesian and Jersey were more superior to its crossbred’s cows. It is concluded that Holstein and Jersey crosses should be use for genetic improvement programs targeted at improving meat and milk production. Omoniwa D. O | Okeke R. O | Adeniyi, O. O | Oladipo M. F | J. M Madu | D. S. Bunjah Umar "Effect of Genotype on Body Conformation and Udder Morphometrics in Milking Dairy Cows in Humid Tropical Conditions of Kwara State" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-5 , August 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd43747.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/medicine/other/43747/effect-of-genotype-on-body-conformation-and-udder-morphometrics-in-milking-dairy-cows-in-humid-tropical-conditions-of-kwara-state/omoniwa-d-o
Performance, Egg Qualities, and Blood Parameters of Layers Fed Diets Containi...BRNSS Publication Hub
A 10-week feeding trial was conducted to determine the performance, egg qualities, and hematology of layers fed diets containing sun-dried sweet orange peel meal (SOPM). A total of 140 Isa brown point of lay birds, aged 20 weeks were used for the experiment. SOPM was incorporated to replace 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40% maize. The birds were randomly assigned to the diets in a Completely Randomized Design; each diet group had 28 birds and 4 replicates with each replicate having 7 birds. Observed results showed that SOPM did not significantly (NS) (p>0.05) affect final weight and egg number. However, weight change, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, mortality, cost of 1 kg feed, and cost of feed consumed were significantly different (P < 0.05) among treatments. Egg weight and egg length were significantly (P < 0.05) different, which ranged from 56.18 to 58.73 g and 3.74–4.17 cm, respectively. Shell thickness and egg width were NS (P > 0.05) influenced, and ranged from 0.80 to 0.84 and 2.63–2.71 cm, respectively. Internal egg parameters, i.e., yolk width, yolk height, albumin weight, albumin length, and yolk index were significantly (P < 0.05) affected. Hematological profile (packed cell volume, hemoglobin, white blood cell, red blood cell, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), MCH concentration, lymphocyte, and neutrophil) of birds showed significant differences (P < 0.05). The study revealed that SOPM did not have an adverse effect on the performance of layers even at 40% replacement of maize while in lay. Its inclusion decreased the cost of feed linearly, did not compromise external and internal qualities of eggs or the health of the birds.
Effects of Feeding Whole Cottonseed, Cotton Seed Cake and Guizotia abyssinica...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
— The present study was designed to investigate the effect of feeding whole cotton seed, of Gossipium hirustum spp (WCS), cottonseed cake (CSC) and noug seed cake (NSC) on blood serum parameters of growing male goats. Twenty four Arsi-Bale growing male goats of 6-12 months of age were assigned at random to four dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design. The dietary treatments were; (T1) local grass hay only (control), (T2) control +20% WCS, (T3) control+30% CSC all amount on total daily DMI basis and (T4) control + recommended level noug seed cake(50% wheat bran (WB) and 49% NSC). Blood samples were collected in 10ml vactainer tube by jugular vein puncture every 30, 60 and 90 days of the experimental days and were allowed to clot at room temperature and centrifuged for 15minutesat 3000 rpm. The separated serum samples were stored in a deep freezer at-20 o C until they were analyzed. Te samples were analyzed for serum parameters: albumin, total protein, glucose, urea nitrogen, creatinine and alkaline phosphate Significant (P<0.05)>0.05) difference between treatments were observed in the levels of total serum protein and glucose. Moreover, no visible clinical sign of gossypol toxicity was observed on the experimental goats fed WCS and CSC during the 90 days of the experimental period. Hence, it was concluded that supplementation of growing male goat diets with recommended levels of NSC,20 and 30% WCS and CSC respectively have no adverse effect on blood serum parameters of growing male goats. Keywords— blood serum parameters, cotton seed cake, goats, noug seed cake, whole cottonseed.
Can shape of egg and texture determine sex and fertility in Guinea fowl (Numi...Yakubu Abukari
Traditional rural farmers have their indigenous knowledge of obtaining and maintaining fertility in guinea fowl through shape of the weight and shape of the egg
Correlation and path analysis for genetic divergence of morphological and fib...Innspub Net
Seventy five genotypes of cultivated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) were studied for morphological characteristics i-e plant height, monopodial branches, sympodial branches, boll weight, seed volume, seed density, seed index and fiber characters. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and estimates were made for genetic advance, broad sense heritability and coefficient of variance for the traits. ANOVA revealed highly significant variability among genotypes for all the characteristics studied. The estimates for heritability were
higher for seed index (0.93) and plant height (0.93). The highest value (6.4) for genetic advance was observed for
sympodial branches whereas lowest value was (0.17) for boll weight. Correlation analysis revealed positive and significant for most of the parameters. In path coefficient, the number of sympodial branches, boll weight, lint index and lint weight had maximum direct and positive effect on fiber fineness of seed cotton. Whereas, the number of monopodial branches, plant height, seed index, seed volume, seed density, staple length, fiber strength and ginning out turn (G.O.T%) had direct and negative effects on fiber of seed cotton. The principle component analysis (PCA) revealed significant differences between genotypes and the first four components with Eigen
values greater than 1 contributed 66.68% of the variability among the genotypes. The grouping of genotypes
possessing excelled traits signifies genetic potential of the germplasm for the improvement of seed and fiber characteristics in cotton crop. Get more articles at: http://www.innspub.net/volume-7-number-4-october-2015-ijaar/
Population Structure & Genetic Improvement in LivestockGolden Helix Inc
The genetic improvement of livestock has been a hot topic for almost a century, bringing together researchers, industry, and producers to work towards a common goal. Many countries currently employ extensive genetic selection programs in their cattle with pigs, sheep, and chicken close behind.
In this webcast, Heather J. Huson, Ph.D. from Cornell University will focus on population dynamics and trait association in cattle and goats using high density SNP datasets. Population structure plays a critical role in understanding the relatedness among livestock, ancestral origins of traits, and identification of unique sub-populations or breeds for production improvement and conservation. This also lays the foundation for understanding and improving species such as the goat which is a vital food source in developing countries but has little recorded production or health data.
Understanding population structure is essential for designing complex trait association studies such as those related to production and health characteristics. Here, Huson shows examples of her lab's investigation into population structure in both goats and cattle to identify distinct groups and study traits such as thermo-tolerance.
Genetic Studies of Grain Yield and other Agronomic Traits of Low-N Maize (Zea...Premier Publishers
Ten low-N open pollinated maize varieties were converted to inbred line after six generations of selfing and used to study the genetic effects of grain yield and other agronomic traits. The 10 inbred lines were crossed in all possible combinations to generate 90 F1 hybrids (45 crosses and 45 reciprocals). The 90 F1 along with their parents were evaluated at the Teaching and Research Farms of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti and Osun State University, Ejigbo in 2017, using two environments created by levels of N (low and high). The design at each location was a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with two replicates. Data were collected on plant height, ear height, days to 50% anthesis, days to 50% silking, incidence of curvularia leaf spot, blight, plant aspect, ear aspect, ear rot, stay green, cob per plant, ear weight, grain moisture content and grain yield. All data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance. Specific combining ability (SCA) and general combing ability (GCA) were obtained for the traits. The mean yield of the hybrids (6,444.42 t/ha) and reciprocal (5,971.64 t/ha) were significantly higher than their parents (2,212.84 t/ha). Significant GCA, SCA and reciprocal were recorded for all traits. Hybrids showed better performance compared with parental lines demonstrating heterotic effect. The ratio of GCA/SCA mean square revealed that non-additive gene action was more important for all the traits except ear height, blight, stay green and cob per plant. The estimate of GCA and SCA in this study provides the maize breeder with information to determine which lines to select to improve elite varieties and which parent lines should be used for making hybrids with greater grain yield under condition of low soil N.
Genomic aided selection for crop improvementtanvic2
In last Several years novel genetic and genomics approaches are expended. Genetics and genomics have greatly enhanced our understanding of the structural and functional aspects of plant genomes.
Problems and prospects of hybrid pigeonpea in india Vipin Pandey
Pulses occupy an important place in Indian agriculture. Within this protein-rich group of crops, red gram or pigeonpea occupies an important place among rainfed resource poor farmers because it provides quality food, fuel wood and fodder.
Pigeonpea breeding started at 1933, first time studied morphological and agronomic traits of 86 elite indigenous pigeonpea germplasm accessions and they find some of the accessions were having high level of resistance to wilt (Shaw et al., 1933).
Hybrids are plants that result from controlled cross-breeding of two different but specific varieties or breeding lines of the same species of plant. Male pollen is transferred to the female pistil to achieve pollination, thus forming a seed. The result is what is called an F1 hybrid. Male sterility is refers to a condition in which pollen is either absent or non-functional in flowering plants. Hybrid seed production of pigeonpea are using
Genetic Male Sterility and first hybrid variety of pigeonpea are released but some problems related to Genetic Male Sterility based hybrid seed production are low amount of hybrid seed production (50%), roughing of fertile counterpart of female (cost increasing), lack of necked eye marker for male sterility (linked marker), difficult to maintain genetic purity (Saxena, K. B., 2015).
The per capita availability of protein in the country is already one third of its requirement and cultivated area are also decreased it is important to enhance its productivity in nearly future. So future prospects of hybrid pigeonpea are, we can make more stable hybrid, we can use wild relatives for stress tolerance breeding (Choudhary et al., 2011), utilize the genomic resources and breeding for special traits. Pigeonpea has a genome size 833Mb and is the first non-industrial food legume crop for which draft genome sequence has been developed (Varshney et al., 2012).
Problems and prospects of hybrid pigeonpea in india
Similar to Egg quality characteristics and phenotypic correlations among egg quality traits in the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens raised under intensive management system
Effect of Genotype on Body Conformation and Udder Morphometrics in Milking Da...YogeshIJTSRD
Bodyweight is one of most important economical traits in dairy cattle and is affected by different environmental factors. One of genetic factors that affects cow conformation traits, is the breed effect. The aim in this study was to determine how breed of cattle affect morphological traits in cattle. In this study, bodyweight BW , seven body traits Body weight, BW Body condition score, BCS stature, ST chest width, CW body depth, BD heart girth, HG rump width, RW , five udder traits chest ligament, CL rear udder height, RUH rear udder width, RUW udder clearance, UC teat length, TL were analyzed. Analysis of variance procedures of R 3.0.3 statistical software was used to test the breed and significance difference in means were separated using Tukey test. In hot climate of Kwara State, the effects of genotype significantly influence body weight, body depth, heart girth and rear udder depth. The crosses of Holstein Friesian and Jersey were more superior to its crossbred’s cows. It is concluded that Holstein and Jersey crosses should be use for genetic improvement programs targeted at improving meat and milk production. Omoniwa D. O | Okeke R. O | Adeniyi, O. O | Oladipo M. F | J. M Madu | D. S. Bunjah Umar "Effect of Genotype on Body Conformation and Udder Morphometrics in Milking Dairy Cows in Humid Tropical Conditions of Kwara State" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-5 , August 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd43747.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/medicine/other/43747/effect-of-genotype-on-body-conformation-and-udder-morphometrics-in-milking-dairy-cows-in-humid-tropical-conditions-of-kwara-state/omoniwa-d-o
Performance, Egg Qualities, and Blood Parameters of Layers Fed Diets Containi...BRNSS Publication Hub
A 10-week feeding trial was conducted to determine the performance, egg qualities, and hematology of layers fed diets containing sun-dried sweet orange peel meal (SOPM). A total of 140 Isa brown point of lay birds, aged 20 weeks were used for the experiment. SOPM was incorporated to replace 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40% maize. The birds were randomly assigned to the diets in a Completely Randomized Design; each diet group had 28 birds and 4 replicates with each replicate having 7 birds. Observed results showed that SOPM did not significantly (NS) (p>0.05) affect final weight and egg number. However, weight change, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, mortality, cost of 1 kg feed, and cost of feed consumed were significantly different (P < 0.05) among treatments. Egg weight and egg length were significantly (P < 0.05) different, which ranged from 56.18 to 58.73 g and 3.74–4.17 cm, respectively. Shell thickness and egg width were NS (P > 0.05) influenced, and ranged from 0.80 to 0.84 and 2.63–2.71 cm, respectively. Internal egg parameters, i.e., yolk width, yolk height, albumin weight, albumin length, and yolk index were significantly (P < 0.05) affected. Hematological profile (packed cell volume, hemoglobin, white blood cell, red blood cell, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), MCH concentration, lymphocyte, and neutrophil) of birds showed significant differences (P < 0.05). The study revealed that SOPM did not have an adverse effect on the performance of layers even at 40% replacement of maize while in lay. Its inclusion decreased the cost of feed linearly, did not compromise external and internal qualities of eggs or the health of the birds.
A study was carried out to evaluate the nutritive value and enzyme supplementation of different sources of energy in broiler diets on the growth performance and heamatological parameters of broiler chickens supplemented with Mazigrain® enzyme within the treated groups. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets less (23.17 % CP; 2831 Kcal/ME and 21.73 % CP; 2929 Kcal/ME) for the broiler starter (0 - a month) and finisher phases (5–8 months) respectively were formulated. Diet 1(maize based diet) served in as the control while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 were supplemented with sorghum, pearl millet, cassava and sweet potatoes based diets separately. A sum of 225 day-old NAPRI X broiler chicks were haphazardly distributed to the five treatments. Every treatment comprised of 45 broilers with three repeats of fifteen birds each in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The general linear model protocol of S.A.S. 9.0. was used to analyze the collected data. Among the dietary groups significant changes (P<0.05) was found utilizing a Tukey test. Enzyme along with various energy sources have noteworthy (P<0.05) changes on every one of the parameters (final weight, daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio, water intake, water to feed ratio and feed cost per kilogram weight gain) except for death rate at the starter phase. Broilers that had sorghum based diet had the best performance at starter stage (final weight; 627 g, weight gain; 576.85 g, feed cost/kg gain; ^ 187.95 k). At the finisher stage, sorghum supplemented with enzyme had the best feed conversion ratio (1.96) and feed cost/kg gain; ^ 171.15 k. The optimal performance characteristics were recorded for sorghum based diets. Feed cost / kg gain was the cheapest on birds fed sorghum based diet with enzyme supplementation which was comparable with those fed the maize based diet. However, the use of enzyme enhanced the performance of birds at both the starter and finisher phases.
A study was carried out to evaluate the nutritive value and enzyme
supplementation of different sources of energy in broiler diets on the growth
performance and heamatological parameters of broiler chickens supplemented with
Mazigrain® enzyme within the treated groups. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets
less (23.17 % CP; 2831 Kcal/ME and 21.73 % CP; 2929 Kcal/ME) for the broiler starter
(0 - a month) and finisher phases (5–8 months) respectively were formulated. Diet 1
(maize based diet) served in as the control while diets 2, 3, 4 and 5 were
supplemented with sorghum, pearl millet, cassava and sweet potatoes based diets
separately. A sum of 225 day-old NAPRI X broiler chicks were haphazardly distributed
to the five treatments. Every treatment comprised of 45 broilers with three repeats of
fifteen birds each in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The general linear model
protocol of S.A.S. 9.0. was used to analyze the collected data. Among the dietary
groups significant changes (P<0.05) was found utilizing a Tukey test. Enzyme along
with various energy sources have noteworthy (P<0.05) changes on every one of the
parameters (final weight, daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio, water intake, water
to feed ratio and feed cost per kilogram weight gain) except for death rate at the
starter phase. Broilers that had sorghum based diet had the best performance at
starter stage (final weight; 627 g, weight gain; 576.85 g, feed cost/kg gain; ^ 187.95 k).
At the finisher stage, sorghum supplemented with enzyme had the best feed
conversion ratio (1.96) and feed cost/kg gain; ^ 171.15 k. The optimal performance
characteristics were recorded for sorghum based diets. Feed cost / kg gain was the
cheapest on birds fed sorghum based diet with enzyme supplementation which was
comparable with those fed the maize based diet. However, the use of enzyme
enhanced the performance of birds at both the starter and finisher phases.
Effects of Cinnamon Powder on Egg Quality: A New Approach using Layer BirdsAI Publications
Attention towards natural growth promoters in poultry has been on the increase in different parts of the world. However, most studies focus on broiler birds and quail. This study analyzed how cinnamon powder supplemented in the diet of Lohmann Brown layer birds can improve egg quality. This study consisted of 5 treatments of 30 birds per treatment, comprising fifteen replicates of 2 birds per replicates. The treatments included: T1: Control without Cinnamon; T2: 4 litres of water + 0.1g of cinnamon; T3: 4 litres of water + 0.2g of cinnamon; T4: 4 litres of water + 0.3g of cinnamon; T5: 4 litres of water + 0.4g of cinnamon. Parameters measured were egg weight, egg mass, egg breadth, egg length, albumen height, albumen weight, yolk height, yolk length, yolk colour, yolk weight, shell weight, and shell thickness. The results revealed an increase in the albumen weight, yolk weight, albumen height, and yolk height as the inclusion levels of cinnamon powder increase. In addition, the egg weight was highest in treatment 5. Taken together, cinnamon powder addition in the diet of Lohmann Brown layer birds has a positive outcome on egg quality.
Egg quality characteristics of pullet chickens fed Neem (AzdirachtaIndica) le...IJEAB
A study was carried out with 180 dominant black strain pullet birds to evaluate the effect of neem and housing types on egg quality characteristics of pullets at point of lay. The birds were randomly assigned to two housing types (deep litter with run and deep litter housing) of 6 treatment groups comprising of 30 birds and 3 replicates of 10 birds each. The experiment was arranged in a 2 x 3 factorial layout in a completely randomized design. Diets containing neem leaf meal (NLM) at 0, 0.5 and 1.0% was administered to birds. Data were collected egg external and internal characteristic at point of lay. Highest egg weight (45.53 g) was obtained in birds fed 0.5% NLM. Bright yellow yolks were obtained from birds managed on deep litter housing with run. It was concluded that up to 1.0% NLM could be included in the diets of laying pullets to trigger early egg production and improve egg yolk colour.
Hematological Parameters of three Strains of Local Cocks in Northern NigeriaIJEAB
The study was conducted to determine the hematological parameters of three strains of the Nigerian indigenous cocks. A total of 15 sexually matured (14-18 month of age) breeders cocks comprising (5 normal feathered, 5 frizzled feathered and 5 naked neck) were used for the experiment. The study was conducted from October to December 2016 at the Teaching and Research Farm University of Maiduguri. Blood samples were collected from 9 breeder’s cocks which were randomly selected 3 per genotype and used for hematological parameters examination. Hematological examination such as Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Red Blood Cell ( RBC) , Haemoglobin (Hb), White Blood Cell (WBC), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin concentration ( MCHC), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH) and Mean Corpuscular Volume ( MCV) showed significant (P<0.05)> 0.05) different between normal feathered and frizzle feathered but there is significant difference ( P< 0.05) with naked necked cock. Neutrophil ( N) showed significant (P<0.05)>0.05) difference between normal feathered and naked neck feathered , fizzle feathered and necked neck respectively but showed significant (P<0.05) difference between fizzle feathered and normal feathered respectively for M and E. the study concluded that variation in the heamatoloical parameters between three strains of local chicken in Nigeria is due to difference in their genetic makeup.
This research is carried out in order to improve the production of eggs in indigenous chicken by reducing the
inter-sequence stopped days through use of anti-prolactin agent (Bromocriptine) and serum from laying hen.
Sixty-four indigenous (deshi) chickens of 20-22 weeks of age, were randomly assigned into four groups (i, j, k
and l) and each group consisting of 16 hens. Control was designated as Group I and Bromocriptine orally at a
dose of 641μg/bird/day was used to treat group j, group k was treated with serum of laying kadhaknath hen
serum at a dose of 1 ml intramuscularly/bird/day and group l was treated with both Kadhaknath serum and
Bromocriptine at doses given to group j and k for the period of 15 March, 2019 to 16 June, 2019 and egg
production, stopped days, prolactin level, hematological parameter and egg qualities were observed. A
significant increase (p<0.05) in Egg production was noticed in all treated groups in comparison to the groups
which were in non- treated control and group k showed the highest production. All treatment groups depicted a
significant decrease (p<0.05) in stopped days and prolactin levels and lowest were observed in hens of group l.
In hematological values between the chicken group, no significant differences were noticed. The present study
reveals that combined treatment with Bromocriptine and serum from laying kadhaknath hen increases egg
production without affecting the health of indigenous chickens.
Evaluation of some reproduction performances of the exotic Hyplus rabbit (Ory...Open Access Research Paper
The objective of the study was to evaluate the reproductive performance and estimate the genetic parameters, in a real environment, of the rabbit of the exotic Hyplus breed. The study will allow appreciating the parameters that could be the object of genetic improvement in view of a selection to produce a more efficient rabbit. The work took place at the SAP Mé d’Adzopé farm from January 2013 to June 2015. One hundred and twenty breeding does were followed for five successive generations of five parities each, with an interval of 11 days between the parturition and the next mating with weaning at 30 days. These females produced 5283 total born rabbits with 5164 born alive and 4732 weaned. The genetic parameters including heritability, genetic, phenotypic and non-genetic correlations (environmental effects) did analyzed using the Derivative Free Restricted Maximum Likelihood program. The results obtained showed that the receptivity and fertility rates did significantly influenced by the order of parity and the season of kindling. The pre-weaning mortality rate was 8.37%. Females had the best prolificacies’ between the second and fourth parity, with an average of 9.9, 10.19 and 9.79 kits respectively. The heritability values of young rabbits total born alive, born alive, weaned and old rabbits were 0.22; 0.20; 0.16 and 0.12 respectively. These results showed that selection is possible for these studied traits.
Effect of Genetic Drift versus Natural Selection on Clutch Traits in Two Popu...CrimsonPublishers-SBB
The study was carried out at Akpehe poultry farm, Makurdi,on the Tiv and the Fulani Nigerian local chicken ecotypes.The variability on clutch traits were estimated on 540 hens produced from the mating of 40 hens and 4 sires each for the Tiv and the Fulani local chicken ecotypes, randomly selected from rural populations. The hens were housed singly and hand mated. Daily egg production was recorded individually. The data was organized according to clutch size, clutch number, pause number and pause length. SAS procedure was used to analyze the variability on clutch traits within and between the ecotypes.Clutch size has the highest variability within the ecotype. Between the ecotypes, the Tiv ecotype showed higher variability in clutch traits than the Fulani ecotype. The higher variability in the Tiv ecotype was related to the large population of single inter breeding flock which renders genetic drift insignificant. The small reproductive population often left when the Fulani women disposed large numbers of matured birds from their flock when preparing for new settlements thereby accelerating genetic drift. This had driven the population of the Fulani ecotype towards genetic uniformity in clutch traits by reducing genetic variation overtime. The genetic diversity of the Fulani ecotype in clutch traits that could be used for current and future adaptation is been threatened.
Similar to Egg quality characteristics and phenotypic correlations among egg quality traits in the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens raised under intensive management system (20)
Characterization and the Kinetics of drying at the drying oven and with micro...Open Access Research Paper
The objective of this work is to contribute to valorization de Nephelium lappaceum by the characterization of kinetics of drying of seeds of Nephelium lappaceum. The seeds were dehydrated until a constant mass respectively in a drying oven and a microwawe oven. The temperatures and the powers of drying are respectively: 50, 60 and 70°C and 140, 280 and 420 W. The results show that the curves of drying of seeds of Nephelium lappaceum do not present a phase of constant kinetics. The coefficients of diffusion vary between 2.09.10-8 to 2.98. 10-8m-2/s in the interval of 50°C at 70°C and between 4.83×10-07 at 9.04×10-07 m-8/s for the powers going of 140 W with 420 W the relation between Arrhenius and a value of energy of activation of 16.49 kJ. mol-1 expressed the effect of the temperature on effective diffusivity.
Artificial Reefs by Kuddle Life Foundation - May 2024punit537210
Situated in Pondicherry, India, Kuddle Life Foundation is a charitable, non-profit and non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to improving the living standards of coastal communities and simultaneously placing a strong emphasis on the protection of marine ecosystems.
One of the key areas we work in is Artificial Reefs. This presentation captures our journey so far and our learnings. We hope you get as excited about marine conservation and artificial reefs as we are.
Please visit our website: https://kuddlelife.org
Our Instagram channel:
@kuddlelifefoundation
Our Linkedin Page:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/kuddlelifefoundation/
and write to us if you have any questions:
info@kuddlelife.org
Natural farming @ Dr. Siddhartha S. Jena.pptxsidjena70
A brief about organic farming/ Natural farming/ Zero budget natural farming/ Subash Palekar Natural farming which keeps us and environment safe and healthy. Next gen Agricultural practices of chemical free farming.
Willie Nelson Net Worth: A Journey Through Music, Movies, and Business Venturesgreendigital
Willie Nelson is a name that resonates within the world of music and entertainment. Known for his unique voice, and masterful guitar skills. and an extraordinary career spanning several decades. Nelson has become a legend in the country music scene. But, his influence extends far beyond the realm of music. with ventures in acting, writing, activism, and business. This comprehensive article delves into Willie Nelson net worth. exploring the various facets of his career that have contributed to his large fortune.
Follow us on: Pinterest
Introduction
Willie Nelson net worth is a testament to his enduring influence and success in many fields. Born on April 29, 1933, in Abbott, Texas. Nelson's journey from a humble beginning to becoming one of the most iconic figures in American music is nothing short of inspirational. His net worth, which estimated to be around $25 million as of 2024. reflects a career that is as diverse as it is prolific.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Humble Origins
Willie Hugh Nelson was born during the Great Depression. a time of significant economic hardship in the United States. Raised by his grandparents. Nelson found solace and inspiration in music from an early age. His grandmother taught him to play the guitar. setting the stage for what would become an illustrious career.
First Steps in Music
Nelson's initial foray into the music industry was fraught with challenges. He moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue his dreams, but success did not come . Working as a songwriter, Nelson penned hits for other artists. which helped him gain a foothold in the competitive music scene. His songwriting skills contributed to his early earnings. laying the foundation for his net worth.
Rise to Stardom
Breakthrough Albums
The 1970s marked a turning point in Willie Nelson's career. His albums "Shotgun Willie" (1973), "Red Headed Stranger" (1975). and "Stardust" (1978) received critical acclaim and commercial success. These albums not only solidified his position in the country music genre. but also introduced his music to a broader audience. The success of these albums played a crucial role in boosting Willie Nelson net worth.
Iconic Songs
Willie Nelson net worth is also attributed to his extensive catalog of hit songs. Tracks like "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain," "On the Road Again," and "Always on My Mind" have become timeless classics. These songs have not only earned Nelson large royalties but have also ensured his continued relevance in the music industry.
Acting and Film Career
Hollywood Ventures
In addition to his music career, Willie Nelson has also made a mark in Hollywood. His distinctive personality and on-screen presence have landed him roles in several films and television shows. Notable appearances include roles in "The Electric Horseman" (1979), "Honeysuckle Rose" (1980), and "Barbarosa" (1982). These acting gigs have added a significant amount to Willie Nelson net worth.
Television Appearances
Nelson's char
"Understanding the Carbon Cycle: Processes, Human Impacts, and Strategies for...MMariSelvam4
The carbon cycle is a critical component of Earth's environmental system, governing the movement and transformation of carbon through various reservoirs, including the atmosphere, oceans, soil, and living organisms. This complex cycle involves several key processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and carbon sequestration, each contributing to the regulation of carbon levels on the planet.
Human activities, particularly fossil fuel combustion and deforestation, have significantly altered the natural carbon cycle, leading to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations and driving climate change. Understanding the intricacies of the carbon cycle is essential for assessing the impacts of these changes and developing effective mitigation strategies.
By studying the carbon cycle, scientists can identify carbon sources and sinks, measure carbon fluxes, and predict future trends. This knowledge is crucial for crafting policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions, enhancing carbon storage, and promoting sustainable practices. The carbon cycle's interplay with climate systems, ecosystems, and human activities underscores its importance in maintaining a stable and healthy planet.
In-depth exploration of the carbon cycle reveals the delicate balance required to sustain life and the urgent need to address anthropogenic influences. Through research, education, and policy, we can work towards restoring equilibrium in the carbon cycle and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
Egg quality characteristics and phenotypic correlations among egg quality traits in the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens raised under intensive management system
1. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 96
Egg quality characteristics and phenotypic correlations among
egg quality traits in the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of
Tswana chickens raised under intensive management system
Kgwatalala P.M.1
, Molapisi M.2
, Thutwa K.3
, Sekgopi B.4
, Selemoge T.P.5
, Nsoso S.J.6
1,3,4,5,6
Department of Animal Science and Production, Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Private
Bag 0027, Gaborone, Botswana
2
Department of Food Science and Technology, Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Private Bag
0027, Gaborone, Botswana
Corresponding Author: Patrick M. Kgwatalala
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Private Bag 0027, Gaborone, Botswana, Tel: +267 3650136
E-mail: pkgwatal@bca.bw, pkgwatal@yahoo.com
Abstract— Strains found among Tswana chicken population include the naked neck, dwarf, frizzled, rumpless and normal-
feathered (normal). Internal and external egg quality characteristics and phenotypic correlations among egg quality traits in
different strains of Tswana chickens under intensive management have never been evaluated. The study was conducted to
determine the internal and external egg quality characteristics of the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana
chicken. A total of 200, 185 and 175 eggs were collected from the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains, respectively, for
external and internal egg quality analysis. No significant differences in albumin height, albumen pH and yolk pH were found
between the strains. The naked neck strain however produced eggs with the highest egg weight, albumen weight, albumen
content, egg volume and egg surface area and the lowest yolk content. The dwarf strain had the lowest egg weight, albumin
weight, egg volume, and egg surface area and the highest egg shell thickness.All the three strains of Tswana chicken
produced eggs of acceptable quality. The naked neck strain however had the best egg quality characteristics, followed by the
normal strain and lastly the dwarf strain. Of the three strains, the naked neck strain had the strongest correlation coefficients
among external and internal egg quality characteristics and between external and internal egg quality characteristics. Egg
weight was positively and highly correlated with other egg quality traits such as egg length, egg width, egg volume, egg
surface area, albumen weight and yolk weight in the three strains of Tswana chicken. Selection for higher egg weight is
likely to lead to the greatest improvements in other egg quality characteristics (both internal and external) in the naked neck
than in the normal and dwarf strains.
Keywords— Internal Egg Traits, External Egg Traits, Tswana Chickens, Intensive System, Botswana
I. INTRODUCTION
Indigenous Tswana chickens are mainly raised under low input and low output free range production system providing food
security, protein nutrition, and women empowerment to most rural families in Botswana. Indigenous chickens are well
known for their adaptation superiority in terms of resistance to endemic diseases and other harsh environmental conditions
(Nwakpu et. al., 1999) hence their popularity with small scale subsistence farmers. The increasing demand for poultry
products from indigenous Tswana chickens is offering an opportunity for medium scale to large scale production of Tswana
chickens. The profitability and long term sustainability of these medium and large scale Tswana chicken enterprises will
however depend on the production of good quality eggs by indigenous Tswana chickens. According to Stadelman (1977) egg
quality is the characteristics of an egg that affect its acceptability to consumers and is most important price contributing
factor in both table and hatching eggs. Some of the factors influencing egg quality include breed/strain/variety, temperature,
relative humidity, rearing practice and season (Rajkumar et. al., 2009).
The indigenous Tswana chicken population exhibit great phenotypic variation due to lack of selection in both qualitative and
quantitative traits, and strains found within the Tswana chicken population include normal-feathered (normal), naked neck,
frizzled, dwarf and the rumpless. These strains represent an important genetic resource that need to be characterized in
various traits of economic importance and conserved for future breed developments. Some strains of Tswana chickens such
as the dwarf, frizzled, rumpless and naked neck occur at a relatively low frequency in the Tswana chicken population and are
at risk of extinction even before they have been characterized in various traits of economic importance. Compared to exotic
chicken breeds, there is less information on egg quality traits and phenotypic correlations among various egg quality traits
indifferent strains of indigenous Tswana Chickens. The objectives of this study were therefore to evaluate the internal and
2. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 97
external egg quality traits and to determine phenotypic correlations among the various egg quality traits in the naked neck,
normal and dwarf strains of indigenous Tswana chicken.
II. MATERIALS AND METHODS
2.1 Location and duration of study
The study was conducted at Botswana College of Agriculture, Content Farm, Sebele, Gaborone, in the Southern part of
Botswana from the beginning of November 2014 to the end of January 2015.Environmental temperature during the study
period ranged from 20°C to 40°C and averaged 34°C.
2.2 Housing and management
30 females and 3 males of the naked neck strain, 30 females and 3 males of the dwarf strain, 30 females and 3 males of the
normal strain of Tswana chickens were housed separately according to strain in separate deep litter houses. The chickens
were fed commercial starter crumbs from day old to 4 weeks of age and thereafter were fed commercial grower pellets.
Water was provided ad libitum throughout the study period. Chickens were raised under natural light (~12hr light and ~12hr
dark periods) throughout the study period.
2.3 Collection of eggs
A total of 200, 185 and 175 eggs were collected from the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens,
respectively, for laboratory analysis of both external and internal egg quality characteristics. The chickens providing the eggs
were of the same age (hatched on the same day using an artificial incubator) and egg collection occurred when the hens were
between 28 and 38 weeks of age.
2.4 Measurement of Parameters
The external egg quality characteristics measured included egg weight (g), egg length (cm), egg width (cm), egg surface area,
shell thickness, and egg shape index. Internal egg quality characteristics that were measured included yolk weight (g), yolk
width (cm), yolk height (cm), fresh albumin weight, albumen index (%), albumen %, yolk %, yolk index (%) and Haugh unit.
Egg weight was measured using an electronic scale, while egg length and width were determined with an electronic vernier
calipers calibrated in mm (Fayeye et. al., 2011). The values for egg length and egg weight were used to determine egg shape
index which was calculated as the ratio of egg width to egg length multiplied by 100. Shell weight (shell membrane
inclusive) was determined by weighing on the electronic scale. Egg shell thickness was determined using a micrometer screw
gauge calibrated in mm. Accuracy of shell thickness was ensured by measuring shell thickness at the broad end, middle
portion and narrow end of the shell and taking the average of the three measurements. Yolk index was determined as a ratio
of the yolk height to the yolk width. Haugh unit was measured according to Haugh (1937).
2.5 Statistical Analysis
External and internal egg quality traits were analyzed using General Linear Models of Statistical Analysis System version
9.2.1 (SAS, 2009) and the model included the fixed effect of strain (Naked neck, normal and dwarf). Correlation coefficients
among external and internal and between external and internal egg quality traits were determined using correlation procedure
of SAS. Results on various internal and external egg quality traits are presented as least squares means ± SE, and means
separation were by pairwise t-test with Scheffe’s adjustment to correct for unequal number of eggs among the three strains of
Tswana chickens. Differences between means were declared significantly different at P<0.05.
III. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
3.1 External egg quality traits
There were no significant differences in egg weight, egg length, egg shell weight and egg surface area between the naked
neck and normal strains of indigenous Tswana chickens (Table 1). The egg weight, egg length, egg shell weight and egg
surface area of the naked neck and normal strains of Tswana chickens were however significantly higher than those of their
age-matched dwarf counterparts. Similar egg weight between the naked neck and normal strains of Tswana chickens is
consistent with Mohammed et al. (2005) and Dakpogan et al. (2012). Yakubu et al. (2008) and Udoh et al.(2012) however
reported significantly heavier eggs in the naked neck than in the normal strain of Nigerian indigenous chickens. Heavier egg
weights in the naked neck and normal strains of Tswana chickens than in the dwarf strain is consistent with Mohammed et al.
(2005) and Dakpogan et al. (2012). According to Alewi et al. (2012) body weight and egg weight are positively correlated
3. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 98
and the egg weights of different strains of Tswana chickens reported in this study are consistent with significantly higher
body weight in the naked neck and normal strains of Tswana chickens than in the dwarf strain at 20 weeks of age reported by
Kgwatalala et al. (2012).
TABLE 1
EXTERNAL EGG QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF DIFFERENT STRAINS OF TSWANA CHICKENS
Strains
Parameter Naked neck Normal Dwarf
Egg weight (g) 49.79a
±0.28 48.21a
±0.34 41.32b
±0.36
Egg length (cm) 5.27a
±0.02 5.31a
±0.03 5.05b
±0.03
Egg width (cm) 4.10a
±0.01 4.06b
±0.01 3.77c
±0.01
Shape index (%) 78.04a
±0.31 76.80b
±0.38 74.87c
±0.39
Shell weight (g) 5.82a
±0.16 6.17a
±0.19 4.85b
±0.20
Shell content (%) 11.72± 0.32 12.84±0.38 11.76±0.41
Shell thickness (mm) 0.38b
±0.006 0.41a
± 0.007 0.38b
±0.007
Egg surface area (cm3
) 67.74a
±0.40 67.48a
±0.47 59.63b
±0.50
Means with different superscripts within a row are significantly different from each other (P≤0.05)
According to Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) the lower egg weight in the dwarf than in the naked neck and normal strains may be
due to the negative effect of sex-linked dwarf gene on production performance. Missohou et al. (2002) reported a 9%
reduction in egg weight of layers by dwarf genes. Similar egg length between the naked neck and normal strains of Tswana
chickens is contrary to Dakpogan et al. (2012) and Yakubu et al. (2008) who reported significantly longer eggs in the naked
neck than in the normal strain of Benin and Nigerian indigenous chickens, respectively. Contrary to our present findings,
Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) and Dakpoganet al. (2012) reported significantly longer eggs in the dwarf than in the naked neck
and normal strains, respectively. Similar shell weight between the naked neck and normal strains of Tswana chickens is
consistent with Yakubu et al. (2008). The higher egg shell weight in the naked neck and normal strains than in the dwarf
strain reported in the current study is consistent with Yousif and Altayeb (2011) and Yeasmin and Howlider (2011) in
Sudanese and Bangladesh indigenous chickens. Significantly higher egg surface area in the normal than in the dwarf strain of
Tswana chickens is consistent with Yeasmin and Howlider (2011) who found a larger shell surface area in the normal than in
the dwarf strain of Bangladesh indigenous chickens. Iqbal et al. (2012) however reported non-significant differences in egg
surface area between four varieties of indigenous Aseel chicken in Pakistan.
The egg shell content (expressed as a ratio of eggshell weight to total egg weight) did not differ significantly between the
three strains of Tswana chickens. Yeasmin and Howlider (2011) also reported similar egg shell content or egg shell
percentage between the normal and dwarf strains of Bangladesh native chickens. There was no significant difference in
eggshell thickness between the naked neck and the dwarf strains but the eggshell thickness of the two strains were
significantly lower than that of the normal strain. Similar egg shell thickness between the naked neck and dwarf strains of
Tswana chickens is consistent with Mohammed et al. (2005) in Sudanese chickens. Yousif and Altayeb (2011) however
reported significantly higher egg shell thickness in the naked neck than in the dwarf strain in Sudanese native chickens.
Significantly higher eggshell thickness in the normal than in the naked neck strain is contrary to Yakubu et al. (2008) and
Mohammed et al. (2005) who reported the opposite. According to Alewi et al. (2012) egg shell thickness is an important bio-
economic trait that layer chicken breeders incorporate in their breeding programmes to reduce egg shell breakages. Eggs of
the normal strain of Tswana chickens are therefore less likely to be prone to shell breakages than those of their naked neck
and dwarf counterparts.
Egg width and egg shape indices differed significantly between the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains with the naked
neck strain exhibiting the highest values for both egg width and egg shape index and the dwarf strain exhibiting the lowest
values in the two egg quality parameters. Egg width and egg shape index in the normal strain were intermediate to those of
the naked neck and dwarf strains. Higher egg width in the naked neck than normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens is
consistent with Yakubu et al. (2008) and Yousif and Altayeb, (2011). Dakpogan et al. (2012) however reported similar egg
width between the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Benin indigenous chickens. Higher egg shape indices in the
4. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 99
naked neck than the normal strain and in the normal than the dwarf strain are consistent with Yakubu et al. (2008) and
Yeasmin and Howlider (2011).Iqbal et al. (2012) however reported no significant differences in egg width and egg shape
indices between four varieties of indigenous Aseel chicken of Pakistan. According to Zeidler (2002) shape indices of 70-74
are considered normal shape indices for commercial layers while the shape index of 75 is regarded as the most satisfactory
when eggs are to be packaged in specialized containers for transportation (Smith, 1990). The dwarf strain of Tswana chicken
therefore has the best shape index while the naked neck and normal strains produced more rounded eggs (higher indices) that
are likely to be more prone to breakages.
3.2 Internal egg quality traits
The absolute albumen weight differed significantly among the three strains of indigenous Tswana chickens (Table 2). The
naked neck strain had the highest albumin weight and the dwarf strain the lowest albumin weight. There was however no
significant difference in albumen content (expressed as a proportion of albumin weight to total egg weight) between the
normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens. The albumen content of the naked neck strain was however significantly
higher than those of the normal and dwarf strains. Significantly higher albumen weight in the naked neck than both normal
and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens is consistent with Yakubu et al. (2008) and Yousif and Altayeb (2011). Yeasmin and
Howlider (2011) also reported higher fresh albumin weight in the normal than dwarf strain of Bangladesh indigenous
chicken. According to Harms and Hussein (1993), albumen weight is more closely related to egg weight than yolk weight
and the higher albumin weight and albumen content in the naked neck than in the normal and dwarf strains of Tswana
chickens is consistent with the egg sizes of the three strains. Eggs containing a large proportion of albumen are regarded as
being of high quality (Peters et. al., 2007)and the naked neck strain of Tswana chicken therefore produces the highest quality
eggs than the normal and dwarf strains. There were no significant differences in albumin height and albumin pH between the
naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens. Similar albumin height between the three strains of Tswana
chickens is contrary to Yakubu et al. (2008) and Yousif and Altayeb (2011) who reported significantly higher albumin height
in the naked neck than normal and naked neck than dwarf strains, respectively. Peters et al. (2007) also reported significantly
higher albumen pH in the normal than in the naked neck strains of local Nigerian chickens.
TABLE 2
INTERNAL EGG QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF DIFFERENT STRAINS OF TSWANA CHICKENS
Strains
Parameter Naked neck Normal Dwarf
Albumin weight (g) 30.26a
±0.31 27.75b
±0.36 24.24c
±0.39
Albumin content (%) 60.71a
±0.49 57.50b
±0.59 58.63b
±0.62
Albumin height (mm) 6.39±0.24 6.00±0.28 6.44±0.30
Albumin pH 8.79±0.03 8.78±0.04 8.85±0.04
Yolk weight (g) 13.71a
±0.17 14.28a
±0.21 12.24b
±0.22
Yolk content (%) 27.57a
±0.31 29.66b
±0.37 29.61b
±0.39
Yolk height (cm) 1.67b
±0.03 1.74ab
±0.04 1.82a
±0.05
Yolk width (cm) 3.72a
±0.03 3.50b
±0.04 3.65a
±0.05
Yolk index 0.45b
±0.01 0.50a
±0.01 0.50a
±0.01
Yolk pH 6.42±0.02 6.46±0.03 6.40±0.03
Edible portion (g) 43.97a
±0.30 42.03b
±0.36 36.47c
±0.38
Edible Content (%) 88.28±0.32 87.16±0.38 88.24±0.41
Egg volume (cm3
) 53.20a
±0.42 52.58a
±0.51 43.13b
±0.54
Haugh unit 81.05b
±1.38 78.44b
±1.71 88.88a
±1.83
Age at first egg (days) 140a
±2.38 141a
±2.71 148b
±2.83
Means with different superscripts within a row are significantly different from each other (P≤0.05)
5. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 100
There was no significant difference in absolute yolk weight between the naked neck and normal strains of Tswana chickens.
The two strains however had significantly higher absolute yolk weight than the dwarf strain. The yolk content of the naked
neck strain (27.57±0.31%) was significantly lower than those of the normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens. There was
no significant difference in yolk content between the normal and dwarf strains (29.66±0.37 and 29.61±0.39%, respectively).
Similar yolk weight between the naked neck and normal strain of Tswana chickens is contrary to Yakubu et al. (2008) who
found significantly higher yolk weight in the naked neck than normal strain in Nigerian indigenous chickens. Significantly
higher yolk weight in the naked neck than in the dwarf strain of Tswana chickens is however consistent with Yousif and
Altayeb (2011) in Sudanese native chickens. The lower yolk content in the naked neck than in the dwarf and normal strains
of Tswana indicate that eggs of naked neck chickens might be relatively healthier with lower total saturated fat and
cholesterol content which are mostly found in the egg yolk.
There were no significant differences in yolk height between the naked neck and normal strains and between the normal and
dwarf strains of Tswana chickens. Udoh et al. (2012) also reported a non-significant difference in yolk height between the
naked neck and normal-feathered Nigerian local chickens. Yakubu et al.(2008) however, reported significantly higher yolk
height in the naked neck than in the normal strain in Nigerian indigenous chickens. The yolk height of the dwarf strain was
however significantly higher than that of the naked neck strain (1.82±0.05 and 1.67±0.03cm, respectively) which contradicts
Yousif and Altayeb (2011) who reported the opposite in Sudanese native chickens. There was no significant difference in
yolk width between the naked neck and dwarf strains but the yolk widths of the two strains were significantly higher than
that of the normal strain. Significantly higher yolk width in the naked neck than in the normal strain of Tswana chickens is
consistent with Yakubu et al. (2008). Yousif and Altayeb (2011) to the contrary reported significantly higher yolk width in
the naked neck than in the dwarf strain of Sudanese native chickens. The yolk index did not differ between the normal and
dwarf strains of Tswana chickens but the two strains had significantly higher yolk index than the naked neck strain. Yeasmin
and Howlider (2011) also reported similar yolk index between the normal and dwarf strains in Bangladesh native chickens.
Significantly higher yolk index in the normal than naked neck strain of Tswana chickens is however contrary to Yakubu et
al. (2008) and Udoh et al. (2012) who found similar yolk index between the naked neck and normal strain in Nigerian
indigenous chickens. The yolk indices of the three strains of Tswana chickens ranged from 0.45 to 0.50 which is higher than
the egg yolk indices range of 0.35-0.38 for the indigenous Kadaknath chicken breed of India reported by Fayeyeet al. (2005).
The yolk indices of the three strains of Tswana chicken were however within the range of 0.33-0.50 required of good quality
eggs (Ihekoronye and Ngoddy, 1985). Egg yolk pH did not differ significantly between the three strains of Tswana chickens
but unlike the albumin, the egg yolk was acidic.
The absolute weights of the edible portion of the egg (albumin weight plus yolk weight) differed significantly among the
three strains of Tswana chickens. The naked neck strain had the highest absolute weight of the edible portion of the egg
(43.97±0.30g) and the dwarf strain had the lowest (36.47±0.38g). The edible content (expressed as a ratio of albumin plus
egg yolk weight to total egg weight) however, did not differ significantly between the naked neck, normal and dwarf strains
of Tswana chickens. There was no significant difference in egg volume between the naked neck and normal strains of
Tswana chickens (53.20±0.42 and 52.58±0.51cm3
, respectively) but the egg volumes of the two strains were significantly
higher than that of the dwarf strain (43.13±0.54cm3
). Iqbalet al. (2012) reported non-significant differences in egg volume
between four varieties of indigenous Aseel chicken of Pakistan. The egg volumes of indigenous Tswana chickens ranged
from 43.13-53.20 cm3
which is higher than egg volumes of 35.87-40.32cm3
reported by Iqbal et al. (2012) in the four
varieties of indigenous Aseel chicken of Pakistan. There was no significant difference in Haugh unit between the naked neck
and normal strains of Tswana chickens (81.05±1.38 and 78.44±1.71%) but the two strains had significantly lower Haugh unit
than the dwarf strain (88.88±1.83%). Contrary to our findings, Yakubu et al. (2008) reported significantly higher Haugh unit
inthe naked neck than in the normal strain of Nigerian native chickens. Yousif and Altayeb (2011) also reported significantly
higher Haugh unit in the naked neck than in the dwarf Sudanese native chickens. There was no significant difference in age
at first egg between the naked neck and normal strains but the age at first age was delayed by about a week in the dwarf
strain. To the contrary, Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) reported age at first egg of 163.90±1.55 and 184.90±1.71 in Sudanese
native dwarf and naked neck chickens, respectively, under improved traditional production system. The higher age at first
egg in the dwarf than in the normal and naked neck strains of Tswana chickens is consistent with Garces et al. (2001) who
associated the dwarf gene with delayed sexual maturity as well as the production of fewer and lighter egg.
6. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 101
3.3 Phenotypic Correlations among External Egg Quality Traits in Tswana Chickens
High and significant (P<0.05) positive correlations were observed between egg weight and other external egg quality traits
such as egg surface area, egg length and egg width in the dwarf, naked neck and normal strains of Tswana chickens (Table
3). The correlation between egg weight and shell weight was significant (P<0.05) but weak in the dwarf and normal strain
(0.407 and 0.334, respectively) while there was no significant correlation between egg weight and shell weight in the naked
neck strain (r=0.093).
TABLE 3
PHENOTYPIC CORRELATIONS AMONG EGG QUALITY TRAITS IN THE DWARF, NAKED NECK AND NORMAL
STRAINS OF TSWANA CHICKEN
STRAIN TRAIT EW EL EWD ESI AWT YWT EC SWT STH ESA EV
DF
EW
1.000 0.647 * 0.625* -0.112 0.901* 0.700* 0.984* 0.407* -0.171 0.801* 0.788*
NN 1.000 0.807* 0.801* -0.122 0.892* 0.703* 0.987* 0.093 -0.641** 0.898* 0.891*
NR 1.000 0.634* 0.722* 0.074 0.907* 0.764* 0.979* 0.334* -0.142 0.790* 0.789*
DF
EL
1.000 0.264* -0.693* 0.572* 0.560** 0.676** 0.066 -0.245* 0.824** 0.666**
NN 1.000 0.604* -0.555* 0.688** 0.590** 0.784** 0.151 -0.579** 0.907** 0.830**
NR 1.000 0.473* -0.521** 0.635** 0.424* 0.644** 0.106 -0.114 0.853** 0.740**
DF
EWD
1.000 0.509** 0.629** 0.340* 0.621** 0.222 -0.081 0.764** 0.894**
NN 1.000 0.326 0.767** 0.562* 0.828** -0.137 -0.675** 0.884** 0.945**
1.000 0.504** 0.720** 0.559** 0.760** -0.005 -0.202 0.863** 0.941**
NR
ESI
1.000 -0.036 -0.255* -0.140 0.105 0.160 -0.165 0.072
NN 1.000 -0.012 -0.122 -0.066 -0.347* -0.052 -0.153 0.002
NR 1.000 0.071 0.122 0.100 -0.105 -0.078 -0.002 0.184
DF
AWT
1.000 0.369* 0.911** 0.239* -0.208 0.752** 0.755**
NN 1.000 0.362* 0.894** 0.024 -0.507* 0.777** 0.785**
NR 1.000 0.481** 0.944** 0.043 -0.223 0.793** 0.795**
DF
YWT
1.000 0.719** 0.133 -0.275* 0.576** 0.527**
NN 1.000 0.726** -0.138 -0.546* 0.645** 0.637**
NR 1.000 0.743** 0.276* -0.223* 0.571** 0.581**
DF
EC
1.000 0.238* -0.278* 0.818** 0.798**
NN 1.000 -0.068 -0.644** 0.899** 0.901**
NR 1.000 0.137 -0.254* 0.820** 0.825**
DF
SWT
1.000 0.450** 0.175 0.205
NN 1.000 0.050 0.004 -0.053
NR 1.000 0.434** 0.051 0.020
DF
STH
1.000 -0.210 -0.174
NN 1.000 -.707** -0.722**
NR 1.000 -0.196 -0.212
DF
ESA
1.000 0.971**
NN 1.000 0.988**
NR 1.000 0.982**
DF
EV
1.000
NN 1.000
NR 1.000
DF,NN,NR,EW,EL,EWD,ESI,AWT,YWT,EC,SWT,STH,ESA,EV= Dwarf, Naked Neck, Normal Feathered, egg weight,
egg length, egg width, egg shape index, albumen weight, yolk weight, egg content, shell weight, shell thickness, egg
surface area, egg volume, respectively. * represent sig. diff (p<0.05).
The Naked Neck strain had the highest correlation coefficient between egg weight and egg surface area and egg length and
while the Dwarf strain had the highest correlation coefficient between egg weight and egg width. Significant positive
7. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 102
correlations between egg weight and egg length and egg width in the different strains of Tswana chickens are consistent with
Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) and Yakubu et al. (2008). The correlation coefficients between egg weight and egg width in the
different strains of Tswana chicken reported in the current study are higher than the correlation coefficient between the same
traits reported by Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) in dwarf and naked neck strains of Sudanese chickens (0.45 and 0.53,
respectively). The correlation coefficients between egg weight and egg length and egg width in Tswana chickens are also
higher than those reported between the two traits in Nigerian naked neck and normal-feathered chickens (Yakubu et. al.,
2008).
Negative correlations were recorded between egg weight and shell thickness in all the three strains of Tswana chickens and
between egg weight and egg shape index in the Dwarf and Naked Neck strains. A significant negative correlation between
egg weight and shell thickness was found only in the Naked Neck strain (r= -0.641), otherwise all the correlations between
egg weight and shell thickness and egg shape index were weak and non-significant. Yakubu et al. (2008) also reported a
weak correlation between egg weight (r=0.23) and egg shape index in free range naked neck and normal-feathered Nigerian
indigenous chickens. Negative association between egg weight andegg shape index has also been reported in other poultry
species (Ozcelik 2002; Nowaczewski et al., 2008). To the contrary, Bernacki and Heller (2003) reported a significant positive
correlation between egg shape index and egg weight suggesting that heavier eggs are more rounded in shape. A negative
correlation coefficient between egg weight and eggshell thickness suggests that heavier eggs are thin-shelled and more prone
to breakages than lighter eggs probably due to the increased surface area for shell deposition in heavier or larger eggs
compared to smaller or lighter eggs in the uterus. Strong, significant and positive correlation coefficients between egg weight
and other egg quality parameters indicate that selection for higher egg weight (current grading and pricing of chicken eggs
based on egg weight) in Tswana chickens might lead to simultaneous positive improvements in egg surface area, egg length
and egg width but might negatively affect egg shell thickness which might lead to large eggs that are highly susceptible to
breakages.
Egg length was highly and significantly (P<0.05) positively correlated with egg surface and egg volume and weakly but
significantly positively correlated with egg width in the dwarf, naked neck and normal-feathered strains of Tswana chickens.
Yakubu et al. (2008) reported a strong, positive and significant correlation between egg length and egg width (r=0.71) in free
range naked neck and normal-feathered Nigerian indigenous chickens. Obike and Azu (2012) also reported moderate and
positive correlation coefficients between egg length and egg width in pearl grey and royal purple varieties of helmeted guinea
fowl. Egg surface area had high, significant (P<0.05) and positive correlation with egg volume in the three strains of Tswana
chicken. Significant correlation coefficients between egg length, egg width, egg volume and egg surface are due to the fact
that egg length and egg width determine the volume and holding capacity of an egg, which in turn gives an indication of egg
surface area and egg weight (Obike and Azu, 2012). Direct selection for either egg length and egg width will thus result in
simultaneous improvement in egg volume, egg surface area and egg weight.
A weak, positive and non-significant correlation existed between egg length and egg shell weight and between egg width and
egg shell weight in all the three strains of Tswana chickens. Weak correlation coefficients between egg width and egg shell
weight observed in the three strains of Tswana chicken are consistent with Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) who also reported
weak correlation coefficients between the two traits in Sudanese dwarf and naked neck chickens (r=0.39 and r=0.37,
respectively). Significant negative correlations between egg length and egg shell thickness were observed in the dwarf and
naked neck strains of Tswana chicken (r= -0.245 and -0.579, respectively) while a weak, negative and non-significant
correlation coefficient was observed between egg length and egg shell thickness in the normal strain of Tswana chicken (r=-
0.114). A moderate, negative and significant correlation coefficient between egg width and egg shell thickness (r=-0.675)
occurred only in the naked neck strain. A negative correlation between egg width and egg shell thickness observed in the
naked neck strain of Tswana chicken is consistent with Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) who also reported a negative though very
weak correlation coefficient between the two traits in Sudanese naked neck chickens.
Moderate and positive correlations between egg width and egg shape index occurred in all the three strains of Tswana
chicken. Moderate correlation coefficients between egg width and egg shape index have also been reported in quail and
chickens (kul and Seker, 2004 and Abanikannda et al., 2007). Significant, positive and higher correlation coefficients (0.70-
0.76) between egg width and egg shape index have been reported in pearl grey and black varieties of helmeted guinea fowl
(Obike and Azu, 2012). Positive correlation coefficients between egg width and egg shape index are to be expected in
different poultry species because egg width is the numerator in the calculation of egg shape index (Obike and Azu, 2012).
Weak and non-significant correlations occurred between the egg shape index and egg surface area, egg volume, shell weight
8. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 103
and shell thickness in all the three strains of Tswana chickens. Yakubu et al. (2008) also reported weak correlation
coefficients between egg shape index and shell weight (r=0.16) and shell thickness (r=0.03) in Nigerian free range naked
neck and normal-feathered chickens.
3.4 Phenotypic Correlations among External and Internal Egg Quality Traits in Tswana Chicken
Strong, positive and significant correlations occurred between egg weight and other internal egg quality traits such as
albumen weight, yolk weight, egg content and egg volume in all the three strains of Tswana chickens. Strong correlation
coefficients between egg weight and albumen weight and yolk weight observed in the three strains of Tswana chickens are
consistent with Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) who also reported strong, positive correlation coefficients between egg weight and
albumen weight (r=0.88 and 0.79 in the dwarf and naked neck) and moderate positive correlation coefficients between egg
weight and yolk weight in the dwarf and naked neck Sudanese chickens (r=0.66 and 0.50, respectively). Obike and Azu
(2012) also reported significant positive correlation coefficients between egg weight and albumen and yolk weight in pearl
grey and black varieties of helmeted guinea fowl. The Normal strain of Tswana chicken had the highest correlation
coefficient between egg weight and albumen weight and yolk weight, while the Naked Neck strain had the highest
correlation coefficient between egg weight and egg content and egg volume. These results suggest that selecting Tswana
chicken for increased egg weight will result in eggs with higher albumen and yolk weight.
Strong, positive and significant (P<0.05) correlations existed between egg length and egg content and egg volume in the
three strains of Tswana chickens. There were moderate, positive and significant correlation coefficients between egg length
and albumen weight and yolk weight in the three strains of Tswana chickens. Moderate correlation coefficients between egg
length and albumen weight observed in the current study are consistent with Yakubu et al. (2008) who also reported
moderate correlation coefficients between the two traits in the Nigerian free range naked neck and normal-feathered chickens
(r=0.52). The naked neck strain had the highest correlation coefficient between egg length and egg content, egg volume,
albumen weight and yolk weight compared to the other two strains implying that selection for increased egg weight will
result in the greatest improvements in egg length and other internal egg quality traits in the naked neck than in the dwarf and
normal strains of Tswana chickens.
Strong, positive and significant correlations also existed between egg width and albumen weight, egg content and egg
volume in the three strains of Tswana chickens. Moderate, positive and significant correlation existed between egg width and
yolk weight (0.562 and 0.559 in the naked neck and normal strains, respectively) while weak, positive and significant
(P<0.05) correlation existed between the same traits (r=0.340) in the dwarf strain. Strong, positive correlation coefficients
between egg width and albumen weight and yolk weight observed in the three strains of Tswana chickens are inconsistent
with Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) who reported weak, positive correlation coefficients between egg width and albumen weight
(r= 0.37 and 0.36) and yolk weight (r=0.32 and 0.350) in Sudanese native dwarf and naked neck chickens, respectively.
Strong, positive and significant correlations existed between egg surface area and albumen weight, egg content and egg
volume in the three strains of Tswana chickens. Moderate, positive and significant correlations also existed between egg
surface area and egg yolk in the dwarf, naked neck and normal strains of Tswana chickens.
Egg volume was strongly, positively and significantly correlated with albumen weight and egg content and moderately
correlated with yolk weight in the three strains of Tswana chickens. Weak, positive to negative and non-significant
correlations existed between egg shape index and egg volume, albumen weight and egg content in the three strains of Tswana
chickens. Egg shape index was weakly and non-significantly correlated with yolk weight in the naked neck and normal
strains (r=-0.122 and 0.122, respectively) while there was a negative and significant correlation between egg shape index and
yolk weight in the dwarf strain (r=-0.255).Weak and non-significant correlation coefficients between egg shape index and
albumen weight observed in the three strains of Tswana chickens are consistent with Yakubu et al. (2008) who also reported
a weak but significant correlation coefficient between the two traits in the Nigerian free range Naked Neck and Normal
Feathered (r=0.26).
Shell weight was weakly, positively and significantly correlated with albumen weight in Dwarf strain but was weakly,
positively and non-significantly correlated with albumen weight in the naked neck and normal strains. Shell weight was
weakly and non-significantly correlated with yolk weight, egg content and egg volume in the naked neck strain. Shell
thickness was weakly, negatively and significantly correlated with egg content and yolk weight in all the three strains of
Tswana chickens. Weak correlation coefficients between shell thickness and yolk weight and albumen weight observed in all
9. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 104
the strains of Tswana chickens are not consistent with Yakubu et al. (2008) who reported a moderate correlation coefficient
between shell thickness and yolk weight and albumen weight in Nigerian naked neck and normal strains, respectively.
3.5 Phenotypic Correlations among Internal Egg Quality Traits in Tswana Chickens
Strong, positive and significant correlations occurred between albumen weight and egg content and egg volume in the naked
neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chickens. Weak, positive and significant correlation coefficients were observed
between albumen weight and yolk weight in the three strains of Tswana chickens. Yousif and Eltayeb (2011) also reported
weak, positive and negative correlations between albumen weight and yolk weight (r= 0.25 and -0.11 in the dwarf and naked
neck strains, respectively) in Sudanese native chickens. This indicates that selection for improvement in albumen weight
might lead to improvement in total edible portion of the egg and this is in agreement with Nonga (2010) who reported that
albumen has a major influence on overall interior egg quality. Yolk weight was strongly, positively and significantly
correlated with egg content in the three strains of Tswana chickens, but was moderately, positively and significantly
correlated with egg volume in all the three strains of Tswana chicken.
IV. CONCLUSION
Naked neck, normal and dwarf strains of Tswana chicken produce eggs of acceptable external and internal qualities. Eggs of
the naked neck and normal strains are heavier than those of the dwarf strain. Of the three strains, the naked neck produce the
healthiest eggs for human consumption with the highest albumen (protein) weight and content and the lowest yolk (fat)
weight and content. Selection for higher egg weight in the three strains of Tswana chicken is likely to lead to improvements
in other egg quality traits such as egg length, egg width, egg volume, egg surface area, albumen weight and yolk weight and
the greatest improvement in correlated egg quality traits will occur in the naked neck than in the other two strains.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors would like to thank Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources for funding the study.
REFERENCES
[1] Abanikannda O.T.F., Olutogun O.,Leigh A.O. and Ajayi L.A. 2007. Statistical modelling of egg weight and egg dimensions in
commercial layers. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 6:59-63.
[2] Alewi M., Melesse A., and Teklegiorgis Y. 2012.Crossbreeding effect on egg quality traits of local chickens and their F1 crosses with
Rhode Island Red and Fayoumi chicken breeds under farmers’ management conditions. J. Anim. Sci. Adv. 8:697-705.
[3] Bernacki Z. and Heller K. 2003.Ocenajakoscijajperlicszarych w roznychokresachniesnosci. Pr. Kom. NaukRoln Biol. BTN 51:27-32.
[4] Dakpogan H.V., Salifou S.,Gbangboche A.B. andChrysostome C.A.A. 2012.Laying performance of five local hen phenotypes in
improved rearing conditions. J. Anim. Plant Sci. 15:2130-2134.
[5] Fayeye T.R., Adeshiyan A.B. and Olugbami A.A. 2005.Egg traits, hatchability and early growth performance of the Fulani-ecotype
chicken.Livest. Res. Rural Dev., 17: http://www.Cipav.org.co/Irrd/Irrd/17/8/faye17 094.htm.
[6] Garcês A. and Casey N.H.2003.Oviposition and egg quality of dwarf and naked neck layers. South African J. Anim. Sci.33:105-110.
[7] Garcês A., Casey N.H. and Horst P. 2001. Productive performance of naked neck, frizzled and dwarf laying hens under various
natural climates and two nutritional treatments. South African J. Anim. Sci. 31:105-110.
[8] Haugh R.R. 1937. The Haugh unit for measuring egg quality. U.S. Egg poultry magazine. 43:552-555.
[9] Harms R.H. and Hussein S.M. 1993. Variation in egg yolk: albumen ratio in hen eggs from commercial flocks. J. Appl. Poult. Res.
2(2).
[10] Ihekoronye A.T. and Ngoddy P.O. 1985.Integrated Food Science and Technology for the Tropics, McMillan, London.
[11] Iqbal A., Akram M.,Sahota A.W., Javed K., Hussain J., Sarfraz Z. and Mehmood S. 2012. Laying characteristics and egg geometry of
four varieties of indigenous Aseel chicken in Pakistan. J. Anim. Plant Sci. 4:848-852.
[12] Kgwatalala PM., Nogayagae M. and Nsoso, S.J. 2012. Growth performance of different strains of indigenous Tswana chickens under
intensive management system. African J. Agric. Res. 7:2438-2445.
[13] Kul S. andSeker I. 2004. Phenotypic correlation between some external and internal egg egg quality traits in the Japanese quail
(Coturnixcoturnix japonica). Int. J. Poult. Sci.3:400-405.
[14] Misshohou A., Dieye P.N. and Talaki E. 2002.Rural poultry production and productivity in Southern Senegal.Livest.Res. Rural Dev.
14(2).
[15] Mohammed M.D., Abdalsalam Y.I, Kheir A.M., Jin-yu W. andHussein M.H. 2005. Comparison of the egg characteristics of different
Sudanese Indigenous Chickens.Int. J. Poult. Sci. 4:455-457.
[16] Nwakpu P.E., Odo B.I., Omeje SI., Akpa M. and EdogaC.C..199. Hatching performance of three strains of layer-type chickens and
their lines. Proceedings of the 26th Annual Conference, NSAP, 21-25th March, 1999, Ilorin.
10. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-2, Issue-8, August- 2016]
Page | 105
[17] Nonga H.E, Kanjuna F.F, Ngomi H.A and Karimuribo E.D. 2010. Physical Egg Quality Characteristics of Free-range Local
ChickensinMogorogoro Municipality, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Public Health, Sokane University of Agriculture,
Tanzania
[18] Nowaczewski S., Witkiewicz K., Fratczak M., Kontecka H., Rutkowski A., Krystianiak S. and Rosinski A. 2008. Egg quality from
domestic and French guinea fowl. NaukaPrzyr. Technol., 2:1-9.
[19] Obike O.M. andAzu K.E. 2012. Phenotypic correlations among body weight, external and internal egg quality traits of pearl and black
strains of guinea fowl in a humid tropical environment. J. Anim. Sci. Adv. 2:857-864.
[20] Ozcelik M. 2002. The phenotypic correlation among some external and internal quality characteristics in Japanese quail eggs. Vet. J.
Ankara Univ. 49:67-72
[21] Peters S.O., Ikeobi C.O., Ozoje M.O., Famakinwa O.A., OshodiY.S.andAdebambo O.A. 2007. Egg quality of the Nigerian local
chcicken as influenced by some major genes. Nig. J. Anim. Pro. 34:25-31.
[22] Rajkumar U., Sharma R.P., Rajaravindra K.S., Niranjan M., Reddy B.L.N., Bhattacharya T.K. and Chatterjee R.N. 2009. Effect of
genotype and age on egg quality traits in naked neck chickenunder tropical climatefromindia. Int.J. Poult. Sci. 8:1151-1155.
[23] SAS institute (2009). User’s Guide Version, 9.2.1, 2002-2009, SAS institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA.
[24] Smith A.J. 1990. The Tropical Agriculturist: poultry. The Macmillian press Ltd, London.218p.
[25] Stadelman W.J. 1977. Quality identification of shell eggs. In: Egg Science and technology. 2nd ed.AVI Publishing Co. Inc. Westport,
Connecticut.
[26] Udoh U.H., OkonB. and Udoh A.P. 2012. Egg quality characteristics, phenotypic correlations and prediction of egg weight in three
(naked neck, frizzled feather and normal feathered) Nigerian local chickens. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 11:696-699.
[27] Yakubu A., OgahD.M.andBarde R.E. 2008. Productivity and egg quality characteristics of free range naked neck and normal
feathered Nigerian indigenous chicken. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 7:579-585.
[28] Yeasmin T. and Howlider M.A.R. 1998. Comparative physical features, egg production and egg quality characteristics of normal and
dwarf indigenous (Deshi) hens of Bangladesh. J. Appl. Anim. Res. 13:1-2.
[29] Yousif I.A. and Eltayeb N.M. 2011. Performance of Sudanese native dwarf and bare neck chicken raised under improved traditional
production system. Agric. Biol. J. N. Am. 2:860-866.
[30] Zeidler G. 2002. Shell egg quality and preservation. In: Commercial chicken meat and egg production, 5th edition, Kluwer academic
publishers, Massachusetts, USA.