Effect of crossbreeding on egg quality, incubation, and hatching activities of the pure and reciprocal cross between the Sasso and Wassache chickens

Abstract

Understanding the effect of crossbreeding on egg quality and incubation is essential for the selection of superior genetic combinations in breeding programs. This study evaluated the effect of crossbreeding on egg quality and incubation activities of the Sasso and Wassache chickens in a pure (Sasso X Sasso [SS]; Wassache X Wassache [WW]) and reciprocal cross (Wassache X Sasso [WS]; Sasso X Wassache [SW]) design. A total of 1431 eggs were incubated while 400 eggs were selected for egg quality. Fertility, hatchability, and hatching activities were expressed in percentage, while egg quality traits were determined. The crosses with Sasso hens laid similar (P > 0.05) but heavier (P < 0.05) eggs with higher (P < 0.05) egg components compared to the crosses with Wassache hens. The SS, SW, and WW genotypes recorded similar (P > 0.05) early embryonic mortality (EEM) and were lower (P < 0.05) compared to the WS genotype. Late embryonic mortality (LEM) between the reciprocal crosses and SS was similar (P > 0.05) and lower (P < 0.05) compared to the WW. The hatchability and hatchability of fertile eggs between the purebreds and the SW cross were comparable (P > 0.05), while those of the WS genotype was lower compared to the SS cross. Hatch duration in the crossbreds was shorter (P < 0.05) compared to the pure Sasso. Mortality between the SW and WW was similar (P > 0.05) while the WS cross recorded a higher (P < 0.05) mortality compared to the purebreds. Crossbreeding improved egg quality, reduced LEM, and accelerated crossbred hatching events. The SW cross is recommended for better performance.