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Three hundred and one native chickens, consisting of 199 hens and 102 roosters, from three regions of Palawan were randomly sampled to describe the morphological characteristics and measure the morphometric characteristics of native chickens in Palawan, Philippines. Results showed variations in the morphological characteristics of native chickens in Palawan. However, it is noted that Palawan native chickens were predominantly of yellow shanks, white skin, red earlobes and red plumage pattern. Comb was mostly of the single type in hens while roosters showed rose comb type. Body length, shank length and wingspan were not significantly different among native hens and among native roosters in the three regions of Palawan. On the other hand, chest circumference of hens and roosters in the southern region was significantly larger than those in the northern and central regions of Palawan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aims to define the breeding objective traits of Boholano strain of native chicken using participatory approach to be incorporated for its purification. A total of 45 households were interviewed. The questionnaire was designed to collect data covering general information on village poultry production such as socio-management characteristics, production objectives, population structure, breed choice and trait preferences, market preferences of specific traits, and farmers' selection practices. The participatory farmers' discussions were designed to involve stakeholders in defining the breeding objective traits and deriving their relative importance in the production environment based on the different functions of chickens and traits identified in the interviews. The results showed that production of eggs for consumption is the principal function of chickens in most towns followed by the use as source of income and meat for home consumption. Weight is the primary factor that dictates market price but farmers rated growth and number of eggs as the production traits that they would like to be improved. Therefore, the breeding objective should be to develop dual-purpose Boholano strain of native chicken considering the traits of number of eggs and live weight and possessing the distinct plumage color and comb type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic diversity of four protected indigenous chicken breeds was evaluated with 25 microsatellite markers. Polymorphism information content (PIC), heterozygosity with the estimator of genetic differentiation FST and Nei's genetic distance were evaluated. The results showed that these four protected local chicken populations showed high levels of diversity. The proportion of inter-population subdivision among the four protected local chicken populations was 16.0%. The average heterozygosity was 0.514, 0.581, 0.567 and 0.589 in Dongan, Xuefeng black-bone, Xianghuang and Taoyuan chickens, respectively, while the average PIC estimates were 0.455, 0.581, 0.557 and 0.576. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using genetic distance and the neighbour-joining method. Its topology reflects the general pattern of genetic differentiation among the four chicken breeds. The results also showed high genetic diversity and genetic variation among all the breeds. The information about the four local breeds estimated by microsatellite analysis may be useful as an initial guide for the effective conservation of chicken genetic diversity and developing conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to characterize the meat quality traits that affect the texture and savory taste of Ufipa indigenous chickens by comparing the proximate composition, physical characteristics, collagen, and nucleic acid contents with those of commercial broilers. It was found that Ufipa chicken breast and thigh meat had a higher protein content (p<0.05) than broiler chicken meat, whereas the fat content was lower (p<0.01). The moisture content of thigh meat was lower in Ufipa chicken meat than in broiler chicken meat (p<0.05). Regarding meat color, broiler chickens had considerably higher L* and b* than Ufipa chickens in both the breast and the thigh meat, except for a* (p<0.01). Regarding water holding capacity, Ufipa chicken breast exhibited higher drip loss but lower thawing and cooking losses than broiler chicken (p<0.01). In contrast, its thigh meat had a much lower drip and thawing losses but higher cooking losses (p<0.01). The shear force of Ufipa chickens' breasts and thighs was higher than that of broiler chickens (p<0.05), while the amount of total collagen in the thigh meat was higher than that of broiler chickens (p<0.05). Additionally, the inosine-5'-monophosphate (IMP) of Ufipa chicken breast and thigh meat was higher than that of broiler meat (p<0.05). The principal component analysis of meat quality traits provides a correlation between the proximate and physical-chemical prosperties of both breeds with some contrast. In conclusion, the present study provides information on healthy food with good-tasting Ufipa indigenous chickens, which offer a promising market due to consumers' preferences., Competing Interests: The authors declare no potential conflicts of interest., (© Korean Society for Food Science of Animal Resources.)

A study was initiated to identify body weight performance of Chinese traditional Lingnan chicken at 8 to 16 weeks of age. Both male and female body weight and feed consumption were recorded. Four hundred and sixty eight Lingnan chickens (108 males and 360 females) were randomly distributed to 12 experimental cage unit of 3 x 4 m followed a Completely Randomized Design. The chickens were treated with four different ration combinations which consisted of commercial ration, yellow corn, and rice brand. Each treatment was replicated three times. Result of the study showed that the male Lingnan chicken was heavier than the females at each observation. The different body weight was 335, 498, 557, 637 and 553 grams at the age of 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 weeks, respectively. At 16 weeks, the male Lingnan average body weight was 2927 grams while the female was 2374 grams. Four different ration combinations were not significantly affected the chicken body weight (P>0.05).

This study was carried out to figure out the potentiality of a cytochrome b gene as a barcoding tool in discriminating native chicken strains and other Gallus gallus species. We performed PCR amplification using universal primer to amplify around 415 bp fragment of cytochrome b gene of mtDNA. The results revealed that all Saudi chicken strains were identical to each other but when compared with other species of Gallus the differences were exciting. The phylogenetic tree revealed that there were seven clusters represented for native strains and were clustered together especially in black strain and dark brown ones. The results have confirmed that using cytochrome b gene to discriminate between Saudi chicken strains and other species of G. gallus fowl was a very sufficient tool. Moreover, we can consider short fragment of cytochrome b gene of mtDNA as a universal DNA barcode region. It was a much more accurate and efficient tool to discriminate interspecies than intraspecies. We think it needs more studies to confirm this concept, and we have to apply that tool for many species of vertebrate and invertebrate as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to figure the potentiality of d-loop of mitochondrial DNA in discriminating among Saudi native chicken strains and other species of genus Gallus. The first 500 base pairs of d-loop region were amplified and successfully sequenced. The results indicated that native chicken strains and genus Gallus species have a tandem repeat sequence with (14) base units into a two copy. Also, there was clear evidence that the native chickens have a unique tandem repeat sequence with (42) base units as a two copy. Two haplotypes (T) and (C) were observed in native chicken strains. Our research displayed approximately (26) transition substitutions in nucleotide sequences specific for native chicken strains, whereas it was 120 mutant sites in case of other species of Gallus. We found that the genetic divergence between these types of chickens was very low (0.022). The phylogenetic tree revealed that each strain of native chicken belonged to each other with the same cluster. In addition, each strain has its own cluster in some individuals. The results showed that the native chicken strains are closely related to Gallus gallus and its subspecies G. g. spadiceus and G/. g. bankiva. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the polymorphism of myostatin gene (MSTN) in native chickens of Western Azerbaijan Rearing and Breeding Institute was investigated. The blood samples were collected from eighty two randomly selected hens. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples and a fragment of myostatin including 599 bp in promoter and exon 1 was amplified using PCR method. Breeding values for body weight and carcass traits were predicted by univariate animal mixed model analysis, using WOMBAT software. The effects of different SSCP genotypes on breeding and phenotypic values of the studied traits were evaluated by general linear model analysis. Three different single strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) genotypes as AA, AB and AC were identified, with frequencies of 0.244, 0.549 and 0.207, respectively. Shannon and Nei gene diversity indices and number of effective alleles in the studied population were 0.88, 0.53 and 2.2, respectively, which indicated a high diversity of the studied population. Moreover, the studied population was not in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The effect of the SSCP genotypes on breeding and phenotypic values was significant only in the case of breeding value for body weight at 12 weeks of age, whereas, the AC genotype individuals, significantly (P<0.05) had the lowest breeding value for body weight at 12 weeks of age. Based on the results obtained, it could be concluded that the studied fragment of myostatin gene is polymorphic in native chickens of Azerbaijan and could be used for marker assisted selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Family poultry (FP) production in Bangladesh comprises the production of free range scavenging chickens and ducks of indigenous origin with or without feed supplementation, various crossbreeds, particularly F1 of Rhode Island Red male X Fayoumi female and small-scale commercial broilers, cockerels from layer strains and commercial layers reared in confinement and provided commercial feeds. This paper reviews the current status of such a FP production, examines the way it is practiced and identifies its constraints and future prospects in Bangladesh. Finally, the paper concludes whether such a production system is worthwhile or an aimless journey for a developing country like Bangladesh. Family poultry works as a ‘standby generator’ in the poultry sector, particularly at times of disaster, such as a fall in the demand for beef and mutton. Rearing a fewer number (e.g. 5-10) of FP in a free range system, as in the case of indigenous birds under low input and low output systems, is economical since such birds derive most of their feed from scavenging. Interventions in terms of nutritional and/or management to augment productivity must be justified economically. Since the crossbreeds and commercial hybrids are more productive, rearing such birds as FP (100 or less) must be justified by the benefit cost ratio. It may be concluded that FP production in Bangladesh with indigenous or commercial breeds or hybrids in fewer numbers, could be made meaningful if monetary benefit supersedes the cost of production. Otherwise, it would be an aimless practise. More research is needed in Bangladesh to explore the profitability of FP of different flock sizes under different systems of management. FP with commercial hybrids is more challenging because of their small flock size which needs continuous technical support and a well planned biosecured environment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The study was conducted to compare the performance of chickens of non-descript desi (ND), hilly (H) and naked neck (NN) genotypes. Data were analyzed by GLM procedure of SPSS in a CRD. The highest hatchability was found in third hatch of ND (86.38%). The chick weight was influenced (p < 0.05) by the egg weight. The average initial body weight of day-old chicks differed significantly (p < 0.001) by genotypes. The lowest and highest mean body weight gain per bird were recorded for ND (329.38 ± 3.32 g) and NN (351.56 ± 5.08 g) genotypes, which indicated that there were an average daily growth rate of 5.88 ± 0.05 and 6.27 ± 0.09 g per bird per day at their 8th weeks growth phases, respectively. Calculated heritability for 12th week body weight of ND, H and NN were 0.16 ± 0.39, 0.50 ± 0.05 and 0.73 ± 0.25, respectively and for 16th week body weight of H and ND were 0.72 ± 0.15 and 0.35 ± 0.15, respectively. Naked neck is genetically superior to non-descript Desi and Hilly in terms of productive and reproductive parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic and phenotypic correlations of egg quality traits in Khazak chicken. Albumen height (AH), albumen weight (AW), eggshell color (ESC), yolk color (YC), eggshell index, long length of egg (ELL), short length of egg (ESL), eggshell weight (ESW), egg weight (EW), Haugh units, and yolk weight (YW) were measured in 201 eggs collected 6 d sequentially from 85 Khazak layers caged individually. The ASReml was applied to estimate heritabilities and genotypic and phenotypic correlations for these egg quality traits. Heritabilities of AH, AW, ESC, YC, eggshell index, ELL, ESL, ESW, EW, Haugh units, and YW were 0.42, 0.61, 0.15, 0.19, 0.30, 0.36, 0.49, 0.54, 0.50, 0.46, and 0.32, respectively. The genetic correlations between EW and AW, YW, and ESW were high ranging from 0.78 to 0.93, whereas those for ESC with YW were low -0.89. Thus although heritabilities for these traits were moderate to high, genetic correlations with EW were high, suggesting a major relationship between EW and ESW as well as internal egg quality in Khazak layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis infection is a common concern in poultry production for its negative effects on growth as well as food safety for humans. Identification of molecular markers that are linked to resistance to Salmonella Enteritidis may lead to appropriate solutions to control Salmonella infection in chickens. This study investigated the association of candidate genes with resistance to Salmonella Enteritidis in young chickens. Two native breeds of Malaysian chickens, namely, Village Chickens and Red Junglefowl, were evaluated for bacterial colonization after Salmonella Enteritidis inoculation. Seven candidate genes were selected on the basis of their physiological role in immune response, as determined by prior studies in other genetic lines: natural resistance-associated protein 1 (NRAMP1), transforming growth factor β3 ( TGFβ3), transforming growth factor 04 (TGFβ4), inhibitor of apoptosis protein 1 (IAP1), caspase 1 (CASP1), lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α factor (LITAF), and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). Polymerase chain reaction-RFLP was used to identify polymorphisms in the candidate genes; all genes exhibited polymorphisms in at least one breed. The NRAMPl-SacI polymorphism correlated with the differences in Salmonella Enteritidis load in the cecum (P = 0.002) and spleen (P = 0.01) of Village Chickens. Polymorphisms in the restriction sites of TGFβS-Bsrl, TGFβ4-MboII, and TRAIL-StyI were associated with Salmonella Enteritidis burden in the cecum, spleen, and liver of Village Chickens and Red Junglefowl (P < 0.05). These results indicate that the NRAMP1, TGFβS, TGFβ4, and TRAIL genes are potential candidates for use in selection programs for increasing genetic resistance against Salmonella Enteritidis in native Malaysian chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The complete mitochondrial D-loop region was sequenced for a total of 18 individuals of Bangladeshi native chickens (BNC); full feathered (nana) (n = 7), naked neck (Nana) (n = 8) and Red junglefowl (RJF) (n = 3). The alignment of mitochondrial D-loop sequence of these chicken populations with 39 reference sequences from DNA databank; White Leghorn, G. g. murghi, G. g. bankiva, G. g. spadiceus, G. g. gallus and other Asiatic chickens was done to identify the phylogenetic position of BNC for the conservation and improvement of chicken genetic resource. The nucleotide variation of sequence among haplotypes for within and between populations of BNC supported the phenotypic variation of individual of the populations. Phylogenetic analysis showed that 57 individuals were grouped into 6 clades. Of the BNC populations, 6 nana, 7 Nana and 2 RJF individuals (83.3%) were closely related with each other and only 1 nana and 1 Nana (11%), and 1 RJF (5.5%) individuals were divergent from them. Therefore, the phylogenetic tree showed low genetic distance and close relationship within and between the chicken populations of Bangladesh, which were closely related with G. g. murghi of Indian origin, and also related with G. g. bankiva, G. g. gallus implying the origin of gene flow to Bangladesh. The genetic information from this study may serve as an initial step to make future plans to assess more molecular information on genetic diversity for the characterization, conservation and improvement of valuable chicken genetic resource of Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this investigation was to study the histological and histochemical structure of the Harderian gland in native chickens. Samples were obtained from 10 male and 10 female adult healthy native chickens. Tissue sections were stained with haematoxylin eosin, Verhoeff's, Masson's trichrome, alcian blue (pH 2.5), periodic acid-Schiff and Gomori's method for reticulum. The multilobular Harderian gland of native chickens was covered by a thin connective tissue which consisted of adipose tissue, parasympathetic ganglia, nerve bundles, collagen, elastic and reticular fibres. Plasma cells were present in interlobular areas. The Harderian gland was compound tubulo-alveolar type. The Harderian duct was lined by columnar epithelial cells of varying height. Goblet cells were not found in Harderian duct. Histochemical staining revealed that the all epithelial cells of both corpus glandulae and ducts contained both neutral and acidic mucins. No significant sex-based differences were found. It is concluded that the general histological and histochemical structure of the Harderian gland in native chickens is similar to that of domestic geese, but that there are also some differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to evaluate/compare the sensory attributes of eggs and meat, egg qualities, proximate composition of eggs, and semen qualities of slow growing native (Miri and Mizo-local) and fast growing improved chicken varieties (Gramapriya and Vanaraja) under hill ecosystem of northeastern India. Significantly higher egg weight, egg volume, and albumen volume were observed in Gramapriya followed by Vanaraja, Mizo-local, and Miri chickens. However, yolk volume was significantly higher in Vanaraja and Gramapriya varieties as compared to native chickens. Yolk to albumen ratio was significantly lower in Gramapriya as compared to Vanaraja and Miri chicken. Consumer liking of eggs for aroma, flavor, and overall acceptability of Miri, Mizo-local, and Vanaraja were significantly higher than that of Gramapriya. Genetic groups did not differ significantly in appearance and proximate composition of eggs. No significant differences were observed between various genetic groups for sensory attributes of meat samples. Semen volume was significantly ( p ≤ 0.01) lower while sperm concentration was significantly ( p ≤ 0.01) higher in native chicken as compared to the improved chicken varieties. However, pH, mass activity, sperm motility, and livability did not differ significantly among genetic groups although Mizo-local had significantly higher abnormal sperm count. The study concluded that the genetic groups with different growth rate differed significantly for various egg quality parameters and semen characteristics but not for sensory attributes of meat and proximate composition of eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with recombinant porcine lactoferrin (rPLF) produced by yeast culture on peripheral lymphocyte proliferation and serum antibody titers in chickens vaccinated against the infectious bursal disease (IBD) virus. Treatment groups were fed with rPLF powder in their diet (2.0%, w/w), and the IBD vaccine was administrated at 1 and 3 weeks of age. At 8, 12, and 16 weeks after vaccination, serum IBD antibody titers were measured via the micro-method and T cell proliferation rates were evaluated. In gene expression analyses, rPLF-treated chicken peripheral T lymphocytes were stimulated with concanavalin A (ConA) for 24h. The mRNA expression levels of interleukin-2 (IL-2), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-4 (IL-4), and interleukin-12 (IL-12) were determined using a semi-quantitative RT-PCR assay. The results revealed that the rPLF additive led to significant increases in serum IgG and IBD-specific antibody titers (P <0.05). The rPLF administration significantly increased chicken intestinal villous lengths and also enhanced the expression of IFN-γ and IL-12 in chicken T lymphocytes. These data suggest that rPLF enhances cell-mediated immunity and augment the ability of IBD vaccination to benefit chicken industry in disease resistance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Vaccination against H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza in endemically affected areas is a potentially attractive option for local prevention and control. In Indonesia the majority of local outbreaks have occurred in back yard flocks with native chickens, and it is therefore of interest to determine whether these birds can be protected against infection by vaccination. To this end two transmission experiments were carried out with H5N1 virus (A/chicken/Legok/2003) in vaccinated and unvaccinated native chickens. The vaccine contained an inactivated heterologous H5N2 strain (A/turkey/England/N28/73 H5N2). Birds were vaccinated at 4 and 7 weeks of age and challenged at 10 weeks of age. During 10 days post-challenge tracheal and cloacal swabs were taken for virus isolation, and serum blood was collected regularly to measure haemaglutinin inhibiting (HI) antibody responses. The results show that transmission of H5N1 virus was rapid and efficient in unvaccinated birds, that infection and transmission were completely prevented in vaccinated birds, and that vaccinated birds that were exposed to unvaccinated inoculated birds were still protected from infection. These findings indicate that vaccination with a heterologous H5N2 vaccine is able to prevent virus transmission in flocks of native chickens. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Many studies have examined avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) from commercial broilers but few have examined isolates from native chickens. This study compared APEC isolates from commercial broilers and native chickens in regard to the phylogenetic group and the phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles. From 100 suspect colibacillosis cases in both commercial broilers and native chickens, a total of 90 broiler isolates and 42 native chicken isolates were identified as E. coli by biochemical tests. Phylogenetic grouping revealed that 90 broiler APEC isolates belonged to A group (5.56%), B1 group (22.22%), B2 group (31.11%), and D group (41.11%). The 42 native chicken APEC isolates belonged to A group (35.71%), B1 group (26.19%), B2 group (30.95%), and D group (7.14%). The difference in the allocation to groups A and D of the 2 isolate types was significant (P < 0.05). The APEC broiler isolates had a significantly higher multidrug-resistant (MDR) rate (80%) than the native chicken isolates (14.29%) (P < 0.05). The APEC broiler isolates demonstrated significantly higher resistance rates than the native chicken isolates for amoxicillin (98.89%; 78.57% respectively), chloramphenicol (42.2%; 9.5%), enrofloxacin (68.9%; 7.1%), gentamicin (11.1%; 0%), nalidixic acid (72.2%; 7.1%), sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim (45.6%; 2.4%), and tetracycline (88.9%; 76.2%) (P < 0.05). The APEC broiler isolates had a significantly higher presence compared with the native chicken isolates of the following resistance genes:- by bla TEM (43.3%; 21.4%, respectively), cml-A (34.4%; 2.4%), tetA (76.7%; 40.5%), tetB (26.7%; 0%), sul2 (23.3%; 14.3%), and dhfrI (13.3%; 0%) (P < 0.05). The qnrB and qnrS genes were detected (12.16%; 72.97% respectively), in the APEC broiler isolates resistant to nalidixic acid and/or enrofloxacin while only qnrS genes was detected in all 3 APEC native chicken isolates. Regarding the point mutations of gyrA and parC , all isolates were positive to gyrA83S, gyrA87D, gyrA87L, gyrA87NY, parC80S and parC80I except that gyrA83S was not present in 20 APEC broiler isolates. Antimicrobial stewardship programs should be targeted at the backyard poultry sector as well as the commercial poultry sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study microsatellite markers were applied to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of the six local chicken lines kept in the "Fowls for Africa" program, for better clarification of parameters for breed differentiation and genetic conservation of this valuable resource. The lines included the Black Australorp, Potchefstroom Koekoek, New Hampshire, Ovambo, Lebova-Venda and a Naked Neck line. Unbiased estimates for heterozygosity ranged from 50% in the Potchefstroom Koekoek to as high as 65% in the Naked Neck chickens. FIS values varied from as low as 0.16 for the Black Australorp line to as high as 0.35 for the Ovambo chickens. The FST values indicated moderate to high genetic differentiation between the Naked Neck and New Hampshire (0.11); Ovambo and Naked Neck lines (0.12), and Naked Neck and Lebowa- Venda (0.14). A total of 13% of the total genetic variation observed was between the chicken lines and 87% within the lines, supporting moderate genetic differentiation. Population structure was assessed using STRUCTURE where the Black Australorp was genetically best defined. Although six clusters for the different populations could be distinguished, the other lines were not as clearly defined, with individual birds tending to share more than one cluster. Results support a broad classification of these lines and further investigation of unique alleles is recommended for conservation of the lines within the program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Comparative resistance to different isolates of Ascaridia galli was investigated in a local chicken breed from Jordan (LC) and in the Lohmann LSL white chicken (LW) strain. In two trials, birds of LC and LW were inoculated orally at 1-day old with 250 embryonated A. galli eggs. In the first trial a German source of A. galli was used, whereas in the second trial, a Jordan source of A. galli was used. At week 7 of infection, infected LC birds harbored significantly (P <0.05) fewer worms and excreted less A. galli eggs than infected LW birds. A. galli isolated from Jordan were less infectious than A. galli from Germany. Results suggest that the variation in genetic background between LC and LW is involved in the resistance to A. galli infection. A. galli isolates from different geographic areas differ in their ability to infect different chicken genotypes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The gene constitution of polymorphisms of the four calpain genes (µ-calpain, m-calpain, p94, and µ/m-calpain) were analyzed in South-East Asian native chickens, White Leghorn and Broiler commercial chickens, and Red and Green jungle fowl. Polymorphisms were detected at all loci in chickens and Red jungle fowl, but only for CAPN1 (µ-calpain gene) in Green jungle fowl. CAPN2 and CAPN1.5 are linked on chicken chromosome 3, and the genotype for these loci were treated as haplotype. Some combinations of calpain loci were tested using principal component analysis, and the best combination ( CAPN1, CAPN3, and CAPN1.5) was determined. The proportion of polymorphic loci ( P poly) and heterozygosity (&Hmacr;) were 1.00 and 0.316–0.465 in domestic chickens and red jungle fowl, and 0.33 and 0.137 in Green jungle fowl, respectively. G ST values suggested that the degree of subdivision among native chickens was relatively low except for Thailand, which was highest. Pair-wise F ST testing, dendrogram and principal component analysis from the results of calpain loci showed that the four South-East Asian native and commercial chicken populations were close genetically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics are biologically active substances that are commonly used in poultry feeding as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters. It was found that they could improve the intestinal microstructure as well as the health status and productivity of animals. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics administrated in ovo on the 12th day of embryonic development on selected morphological parameters of the small intestine in broiler and native chickens. After hatching, the chicks were placed in pens and housed for 42 days. On the last day of the experiment, all birds were individually weighed and slaughtered, and samples for histological analysis were taken from the duodenum, jejunum and ileum. The following parameters were determined: the height, width and surface area of the villi, the thickness of the muscular layer and the depth of the crypts, as well as the ratio of the villi height to the crypt depth. Based on the obtained data, it can be concluded that the substances used have an impact on the production parameters and intestinal morphology in various utility types of poultry. In addition, the obtained results indicate that chickens with different genotypes react differently to a given substance; therefore, the substances should be chosen in relation to the genotype. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics administered in ovo on selected morphological parameters of the small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, ileum) in broiler chickens (Ross 308) and native chickens (Green-legged Partridge, GP). On the 12th day of embryonic development (the incubation period), an aqueous solution of a suitable bioactive substance was supplied in ovo to the egg's air cell: probiotic—Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris (PRO), prebiotic—GOS, galacto-oligosaccharides (PRE) or symbiotic—GOS + Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris (SYN). Sterile saline was injected into control (CON) eggs. After hatching, the chicks were placed in pens (8 birds/pen, 4 replicates/group) and housed for 42 days. On the last day of the experiment, all birds were individually weighed and slaughtered. Samples for histological analysis were taken directly after slaughter from three sections of the small intestine. In samples from the duodenum, jejunum and ileum, the height and width of the intestinal villi (VH) were measured and their area (VA) was calculated, the depth of the intestinal crypts (CD) was determined, the thickness of the muscularis was measured and the ratio of the villus height to the crypt depth (V/C) was calculated. On the basis of the obtained data, it can be concluded that the applied substances administered in ovo affect the production parameters and intestinal morphology in broiler chickens and GP. The experiment showed a beneficial effect of in ovo stimulation with a prebiotic on the final body weight of Ross 308 compared to CON, while the effect of the administered substances on the intestinal microstructure is not unequivocal. In GP, the best effect in terms of villi height and V/C ratio was found in the in ovo synbiotic group. Taking into account the obtained results, it can be concluded that chickens of different genotypes react differently to a given substance; therefore, the substances should be adapted to the genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to breed a strain that has heat tolerance and meat productivity, the commercial red-feathered Taiwan native chickens were male (F group), and heat stress resistant strain Taiwan native chickens (Taishu-9, bred by the Taiwan Livestock Research Institute) were female (TR9 group) to hybridize to generate offspring (F9 group). Three breeds of birds (male) were conducted to compare acute heat stress and meat quality. At 12 weeks of age, TR9 group showed the significantly lowest activity of plasma creatine kinase upon acute heat stress which indicated heat stress resistant in TR9 group as expected. In addition, only limited thermoregulation was obtained in F9 group, while F group exhibited almost no acute heat stress tolerance ability. After slaughtered at 16 weeks of age, the F group revealed poor meat quality in breast meat as pale, soft, and exudative (PSE)-like muscle samples according to CIE L* and pH value. The F9 group was an offspring of TR9 group with heat tolerance, but it only demonstrated limitation of heat resistance. However, the improve meat quality was obtained in F9 group compared to F group, and that may be contributed from better anti-stress as like as TR9 group during slaughtering process., (© 2022 Japanese Society of Animal Science.)

This study examined biochemical components, fatty acids, antioxidant dipeptides, and muscle fiber density of breast and thigh muscles from Korean new native chicken strains (A and B) at two slaughter ages, compared with white semi-broiler (W) or broilers. The pH values were different by chicken breed. The new native strains had the lowest fat content in the breast at 12 wk (p<0.05). Regardless of the muscles, A and B at 12 wk had higher levels of arachidonic acid (ARA; C20:4), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; C22:6), and nervonic acid (C24:1) than broilers (p<0.05). A similar result was observed for the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids ratio (P/S) content in the breast. Irrespective of the muscles, A and B enriched with omega-3 fatty acids had a lower ω-6/ω-3 PUFA ratio than broilers (p<0.05) at 12 wk. Of the antioxidant di-peptides, the anserine contents were highest in A and B than in the W or broilers (p<0.05), regardless of the muscles and slaughter ages. Furthermore, the breast meat from A and B contained a higher muscle fiber density for both slaughter ages than the W and broilers (p<0.05). Based on these findings, even if the commercial birds (broilers or W) are raised under the similar environmental conditions as A and B, the new native chicken strains have distinct meat quality attributes, particularly higher ARA and DHA levels, lower ω-6/ω-3 PUFA ratio, and higher anserine contents., Competing Interests: The authors declare no potential conflict of interest., (© Korean Society for Food Science of Animal Resources.)

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different raising period on carcass yield and meat quality of free-range Chung Hsing red-feather native chicken which can be a reference for future researchers. Results indicated that the birds were slaughtered at 16 weeks (CHNC-16) had the lowest carcass yield compare to the group slaughtered at 21 weeks (CHNC-21) (P < 0.05). Water holding capability (WHC) in both breast and thigh meat of CHNC-16 was significantly higher than that of CHNC-21. In comparison to commercialized native chicken (CNC), CHNC-16 was higher in a* value (P < 0.05), and had lower L* value. In hardness, both breast and thigh meat of CHNC-16 were the lowest. CHNC-16 also had the lowest gumminess (P < 0.05) in breast meat, lower springiness and cohesiveness in thigh meat (P < 0.05). CHNC-16 also had the higher sensory score in juiciness and overall acceptance (P < 0.05). In addition, the Chung Hsing red-feather native chicken also provides better flavor than CNC group. In conclusion, CHNC-16 raised under forest had better performance in WHC, juiciness, hardness and meat quality, it is also shown that the meat quality is not directly proportional to growing period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of the Chinese Society of Animal Science is the property of Chinese Society of Animal Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of the Chinese Society of Animal Science is the property of Chinese Society of Animal Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of adding rosemary compound in the ration on the growth and carcass performances of native chickens. The 180 chicks were divided into three groups, supplemented with 0.2, 0.4 and 0% of rosemary compound powder in the basal diet. Result showed that there was no difference in the starting weight, 19th week old body weight, average daily intake, average daily gain weight and average feed conversion rate among three groups. It seemed that rosemary compound only slightly improved 1.41% of gain weight and 0.23% of feed conversion rate on the growth performance of native chicken. The Immunoglobulin IgA and IgG of native chicken had rosemary compound powder were significantly lower than that of in control group. It showed that the rosemary compound can improve the intestinal absorption capacity and the immunity of the chicken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to understand the influence of the chicken footpad dermatitis (FPD) on the litter contained 0%, 10% and 20% of biochar. Crossbred chickens were reared in this experiment. The extra water was added into the litter for inducing the FPD symptom. The results showed that the average litter' moisture content, seemed inversely proportional to the biochar added, in the three groups were 53.8, 51.8 and 50.3%, respectively. Finally, the incidence of FPD in the three groups at the end of the trial was 49.5, 71.4, and 70.2%, respectively. The highest FPD score was 0.83 in the 10% biochar group and 0.53 in the 0% biochar group. The birds with 2 points FPD score is 3.8% in the 0% biochar group. In general, although the moisture content in the litter is reduced by added certain proportion of biochar, the effect of improving the incidence and dermatitis on the foot of the chicken is not as effective as expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine thermoregulation of the hybrid offsprings (FK9) from homozygous genotypes TLRI-K9 chicken (K9) and commercial red-feather broiler (F). Physiological assessments were made including respiratory rates, the enzymatic activity of creatine kinase (CK) and circulating triiodothyronine (T3) levels at 0 and 1-hour postacute heat stress. Thirty 16-week old chickens were divided and exposed to 42°C ambient temperature for 1 h. The results showed that the respiratory rates of the K9, F, and FK9 were increased by 67.8 times/min, 32.3 times/min, 57 times/min, respectively and the K9 group had the highest respiratory increase (P < 0.05). The CK activities of the K9, F, and FK9 were raised by 190 IU/L, 2,438 IU/L, 1,375 IU/L, respectively and the K9 had the lowest CK activity increase (P < 0.05). The T3 level of the K9, F, and FK9 chicken were dropped by 75.68 nmol/L, 11.28 nmol/L, and 34.3 nmol/L, respectively and the K9 group had the highest dropped T3 level (P < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of the Chinese Society of Animal Science is the property of Chinese Society of Animal Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of the Chinese Society of Animal Science is the property of Chinese Society of Animal Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of the Chinese Society of Animal Science is the property of Chinese Society of Animal Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)