Effects of Multi-Trait Selection on Phenotypic and Genetic Changes in a Meat Type Dam Line of Japanese Quail

Abstract

The present study in Japanese quail was aimed to develop multi-trait genetic selection program for meat type dam line utilizing the mixed-model methodology. In total, 2000 pedigreed quail were formed the basis of the research where a multi-trait animal model was performed for the first time in a selection study of quail in Turkey. A flock consisting of a total of 160 families (160 male- 480 female) was developed from the initial flock (AHBS: initial flock of dam line), so as to obtain a selection flock dam line (AHSS-1). Body weight at 5 weeks of age (CA) was chosen as a primary selection criterion in flock. The total egg number (YV) from the day of first lay to the 20 weeks of age, relative growth rate (BBH) at 5 weeks of age derived from Gompertz equation, and fertility rate (DO) were used as selection criteria in AHSS. Multi-trait BLUP methodology was carried out for genetic improvement of birds. In flock, 25 percent of males and females with highest breeding value were selected to produce next generations (AHSS-2). Genetic parameter estimates, realized genetic parameters, selection responses, and genetic trends were obtained. Significant (P<0.01) selection responses for CA, BBH and YV traits on generations were observed. The results of the study revealed that the negative genetic relationships exhibited between some studied traits had overcame by modern poultry breeding methods such as selection via multi-trait BLUP.