Abstract
Bilaterally symmetrical morphological characters with fluctuating asymmetry usually have small, random deviations from symmetry that reflect the ability of individuals to cope with genetic and environmental stress. A comparison of the level of fluctuating asymmetry in two fast-growing breeds (ScanBrid, Ross 208) with that of a slow-growing breed (La Belle Rouge) and wild jungle fowl from India revealed a positive relationship between growth rate and asymmetry. Fast-growing chickens kept at three densities (20, 24, and 28 chickens per square meter) revealed a positive association between fluctuating asymmetry and density. Large individuals generally had higher levels of fluctuating asymmetry than small individuals. Tonic immobility, which is often used as a measure of fearfulness, was weakly positively associated with the degree of fluctuating asymmetry (P < .05). Measures of fluctuating asymmetry may provide information on levels of stress experienced by domesticated animals.
Published Version
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