Study on Some Important Morphometric Traits of Kamrupa Chicken

Abstract

An experiment was conducted during March-August, 2024 at the experimental shed under the project ICAR-All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Poultry Breeding, Directorate of Research (Veterinary), AAU, Khanapara, Guwahati, Assam to study some important morphometric traits of Kamrupa chickens reared under deep litter system at 22 weeks of age.  A total 20 Kamrupa chickens (10 males and 10 females) were selected randomly and altogether 17 morphometric traits, viz. body weight, body length, body girth, wingspan, scull length, neck length, neck circumference, wing length, tail length, comb length, comb height, wattle length, beak length, breast angle, keel length, shank length and shank circumference were measured. The findings revealed significant (P<0.05) sexual dimorphism in most of the traits, with males exhibiting larger body dimensions compared to females. The body length was significantly (P<0.05) higher in males than females. There was no significant (P<0.05) difference between body girth of males and females. The neck length and shank circumference were significantly (P<0.05) higher in females than in males. There was no significant (P<0.05) difference in breast angle among male and female birds.  Moreover, beak length did not show any significant (P<0.05) difference between male and female Kamrupa chickens. The shank length was also significantly (P<0.05) higher in males as compared to females. Hence, it could be concluded that comparing with other indigenous and commercial varieties highlighted, Kamrupa’s robust morphometric features suggesting its potential for adaptability, growth rate and suitability for rural poultry farming. Further DNA-based research could be recommended to validate the present morphometric variations to and enhance conservation and breeding strategies.