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Evidence for genetic improvement of layer stocks of chickens during 1950-80

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 March 2009

I. McMillan ,
R.W. Fairfull ,
R.S. Gowe  and
J.S. Gavora
I. McMillan
Affiliation:
University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
R.W. Fairfull
Affiliation:
Animal Research Centre, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0C6, Canada
R.S. Gowe
Affiliation:
Animal Research Centre, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0C6, Canada
J.S. Gavora
Affiliation:
Animal Research Centre, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0C6, Canada
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Abstract

Genetic improvement in production of commercial layers was examined by comparing production profiles of three strains representing commercial stocks of the two decades between 1950 and 1970, and by considering North American random sample tests for several production traits performed during the period 1970–80 with stocks that are used commercially in temperate climates around the world. Changes in the production profiles indicate commencement of production at an earlier age and increased persistency of egg production after reaching the peak level. Results from the North American random sample tests of multiple trait selected stocks show improvements not only in egg production, but also in egg size, while egg quality and viability have been maintained.

Keywords

Eggsgeneticsimprovementproductionrandom sample testingsize
Type
Reviews
Information
World's Poultry Science Journal , Volume 46 , Issue 3 , November 1990 , pp. 235 - 245
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1990

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