Abstract
A rapid genetic response was observed in male chickens selected for high packed-sperm volume (PSV) as a possible corollary to high egg mass in females. The PSV increased from 15% in the S0 generation to 22% in the S4 generation in two lines. Only minor changes were observed in the PSV of two nonselected lines during this same period. Realized heritability estimates for PSV, obtained by dividing the cumulative response by the cumulative selection differentials, were .48 and .44. Fertility levels in lines selected for high PSV were 20 to 25 percentage points lower than fertility levels in nonselected PSV lines in the S3 generation. Data indicated that selection for high PSV resulted in a decrease in the fertility levels of females mated to high PSV males. Although hatchability levels were lower in lines selected for high PSV than in nonselected lines, hatchability differences between lines were not significant.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
