Philippine E-Journals

Heterosis and Combining Abilities in Crosses among Three Genetic Groups of Philippine Native Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus, Linn.)

Sintje Lumatauw | Angel L. Lambio | Cecilio R. Arboleda | Clarita T. Dagaas

Discipline: Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science

 

Abstract:

A total of 162 head of Philippine native chickens (Banaba, Paraoakan, and Bolinao) and their crosses were used in this study. The three genetic groups were subjected to a 3 x 3 full diallel cross design to determine heterosis and combining abilities for body weight and age at sexual maturity.

Among genetic groups, Paraoakan showed the highest body weight. The F1 progenies of the Banaba x Paraoakan cross had higher body weights than that of the other hybrids. Percent heterosis ranged from 3.66% to 6.43% on the Banaba x Paraoakan cross while the highest value was observed on the 16-week body weight of the progenies of the Banaba x Bolinao cross.

Both Paraoakan and Banaba groups showed relatively high positive values for general combining ability indicating that body weight at ages considered are governed primarily by additive gene action. The highest general combining ability effect on body weight of Banaba was noted at 18 weeks old (37.11) while the highest on Paraoakan was at 16 weeks old (84.52). Percent heterosis was highest in the progenies of the Banaba x Bolinao cross (13.41%). The progenies of the Banaba x Paraoakan cross showed almost equal heterosis effect at 12, 14 and 16 weeks of age. Age at sexual maturity ranged from 150 days (Paraoakan) to 177 days (Bolinao). Percent heterosis for age at sexual maturity was 6.24% for the progenies of the Paraoakan x Banaba mating.