The effect of plumage modifier genes on egg quality indices of the Nigerian local chicken

Abstract

The effect of plumage modifier genes on some internal and external egg quality indices in the Nigerian local chicken in the guinea savanna was evaluated. The frizzle (ff) and naked neck (Na) local birds had a significantly (p<0.05) higher egg weight than the normal feathered birds (na). Mean egg weights were 33.29 0.27, 36.16 0.20 and 43.15 0.21 in the na, ff and Na genetic groups respectively. The frizzle and naked neck genes positively increased egg weights by 8.62 and 29.62 per cent over the normal feather gene. However, egg shape index significantly (p<0.05) favoured the normal feathered birds over the other two genetic groups of the Nigerian local chicken studied. Similarly, shell thickness was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the ff and Na birds than in the na. Consequently, the modifier genes of frizzling and naked neck are relevant in the development of a layer breed for the local environment.