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Abstract
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Chicken (Gallus gallus) is one of the most common widely domesticated poultry species, providing a large proportion of animal protein in the human diet. Throughout time, chickens have undergone a process of evolution from their wild ancestors, red jungle fowls, via natural and artificial selection. The diverse local fowl found across various regions of Iraq exhibit heterogeneity in their morphological and quantitative traits. This diversity stems from their genetic makeup, strong resilience to challenging environmental conditions, and ability to withstand endemic diseases. The unique genetic potentials inherent in local fowl hold promise for future breeding programs. Additionally, the phenotypic diversity observed within local fowl populations offers valuable foundational insights for the development of genetic selection programs. The objective of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of quantitative characteristics among local indigenous fowl and commercial strains, including the Iranian dual-purpose breed and the Mezo layer breed in the Kurdistan region. The experiment was conducted at the Poultry Breeding Unit of the Animal Science Department at the University of Sulaimani from August 2021 to April 2022. Genetic groups of chickens were compared during the growing phase, from one-day-old to the 19th week of age. Results indicate that Iranian chickens exhibited significantly higher body weights compared to Mezo and local fowls, with weights of 1.575 kg, 1.272 kg, and 1.166 kg, respectively. In terms of sexual maturity, Mezo chickens reached maturity earlier at 136 days compared to local fowl at 150 days and Iranian chickens at 153 days. The Mezo breed demonstrated the best feed conversion ratio(FCR) performance, recording 1.933, surpassing Iranian chickens at 2.161, and local fowls at 2.609. Mortality rates varied among the breeds, with Iranian chickens showing the highest percentage at 11%, followed by local fowl at 8%, and Mezo at 7%. In conclusion, the body weight values of local fowl measured at various stages of growth suggest their suitability for egg-laying purposes. Additionally, local fowl tend to attain maturity and begin laying eggs at a faster rate. Moreover, local fowl exhibit genetic similarity to Iranian and Mezo chickens. The disparities between genetic groups originate from earlier selection history and selective breeding efforts specifically directed towards the Mezo and Iranian chicken breeds. Wide range of genetic variations found within population of native chicken in Kurdistan. High genetic diversity in indigenous poultry breeds is essential for their long-term survival and resilience to changing environmental conditions and emerging diseases. Conservation efforts aimed at preserving these breeds and their genetic diversity are crucial for maintaining sustainable agriculture, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring food security. Additionally, genetic studies and breeding programs focused on indigenous poultry breeds can unlock valuable traits that may benefit global poultry production systems.
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