Phenotypic Characterization Of Local Chicken Ecotypes Indigenous To Semi-Arid Areas Of Dodoma And Singida Regions Of Central Tanzania

ABSTRACT

The optimum productivity of local chicken population is limited by poor housing management, poor feeding and nutrition, incidences of diseases and lack of appropriate breeding strategies. A study was carried out in different districts of Dodoma and Singida regions of central Tanzania to characterize local chicken ecotypes based on specific objectives; (1) To identify qualitative traits, and (2) to determine quantitative traits of selected local chicken ecotypes. Chickens indigenous to selected sites of the two regions were screened for qualitative traits, namely, body weight (BWT), chest circumference (CC) and shank length (SL). Data on qualitative traits were analyzed for simple descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel Computer program. Data on quantitative traits were analyzed into means and standard errors using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results revealed variable plumage color ranging from white (24%), black (34%) and red 29% and others (13%). The predominant comb size was medium (38%). Most of chickens had single (84%) comb type. The chickens exhibited highly variable body weight, body length, chest circumference and shank length all attributes suggesting high variability in economic traits both between and with ecotypes. Mean body weight ranged from 0.8 to 1.7 kg (mean; 1.3 kg) for female and 0.9 to 3.0 (mean 1.7) for male. Body length ranged from 29.4 to 53.6 (mean 32.7) for females and 32 to 53 (mean 37.9) for males. The chest circumference ranged from 24.3 cm to 30.0 cm (mean 28.0cm) for females and 27.5cm to 42.0cm (mean 30.5cm) for males. Shank length ranged from 7.3 cm to 9.5cm (mean 8.2 cm) for females and 7.7cm to 12.0cm (mean 10.2cm) for males. Phenotypic characterization and subsquential genetic characterization would enhance productivity of local chicken ecotypes. Chicken with good performance are highly recommended to be kept by local community for enhanced productivity