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Genetic Evaluation of Body Weight and Tibia Resistance in Broilers

Friday, August 22, 2014
Posters (The Westin Bayshore)
Jane O. Peixoto , EMBRAPA Swine and Poultry, Concórdia, Brazil
Vicky L Kawski , EMBRAPA Swine and Poultry, Concórdia, Brazil
Adriana M.G. Ibelli , EMBRAPA Swine and Poultry, Concórdia, Brazil
Ricardo Zanella , EMBRAPA Swine and Poultry, Concórdia, Brazil
Helenice Mazzuco , EMBRAPA Swine and Poultry, Concórdia, Brazil
Camila G Souza , Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Concórdia, Brazil
Danísio P. Munari , Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Jaboticabal, Brazil
Fátima R.F. Jaenisch , EMBRAPA Swine and Poultry, Concórdia, Brazil
Mônica C. Ledur , EMBRAPA Swine and Poultry, Concórdia, Brazil
Abstract Text: Leg problems have been a major concern for fast-growing broilers, giving rise to economic losses, as well as reduced animal welfare. In this study, genetic parameters of important traits related to body weight and bone resistance were investigated in a paternal broiler line. Data from 1452 chickens slaughtered at 42 days of age were used. Heritability and genetic correlations for body weight at 42 days (BW42), ash content, breaking strength, flexibility, and Ca:P ratio were estimated. Analyses were performed using QxPak software with an animal model. The genetic parameters were estimated by restricted maximum likelihood. Results have shown considerable phenotypic variability in the broiler line studied. The selection for BW42 increased breaking strength and, in a lower proportion, tibia flexibility. The knowledge of the genetic parameters related to bone integrity traits could support breeding strategies to reduce leg problems in the poultry industry.

Keywords:

bone integrity

broiler

genetic parameters

See more of: Posters: Poultry Breeding (Group 1)
See more of: Species Breeding: Poultry
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