424
GENETIC DIVERSITY AND ADAPTABILITY EXIST AMONG BACKYARD POULTRY POPULATIONS IN SRI LANKA

Friday, August 22, 2014
Posters (The Westin Bayshore)
Pradeepa Silva , Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Nirukshika Abeykone , Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Malshani Samaraweera , Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Uva Wellassa University, Badulla, Sri Lanka
Han Jianlin , International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
Mohammed N.M. Ibrahim , International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
Okeyo Mwai , International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
Abstract Text:

Data from 585 chickens and 298 households were recorded for the investigation of adaptability of backyard poultry to rough management and harsh environmental conditions in two geographically distinct sites in Sri Lanka. The molecular investigation using 20 microsatellite markers revealed a high and stable genetic diversity within populations but low genetic differentiation among populations. The management strategies that support this particular genetic structure could be attributed to the constant gene flow through exits from and entries to the flocks of backyard chickens among the villages, and a directional natural selection towards adaptability to local environmental conditions.

Keywords:

Backyard poultry

Genetic diversity

Adaptability

See more of: Posters: Adaptation and Selection in Harsh Environments (Group 1)
See more of: Genetic Improvement Programs: Selection for harsh environments and management of animal genetic resources
<< Previous Abstract | Next Abstract >>