Genetic Evaluation of Semen Characteristics Traits Using a Multi-Trait Animal Model and Selection Index in Nigerian Local Chickens

Özet

This study aims to investigate appropriate genetic models and selection indices to ascertain the genetic characteristics and breeding values in Nigerian local chicken cocks. A total of 614 records of six semen traits focusing on essential reproductive factors such as sperm volume, concentration, motility, viability, morphology, and pH. The average sperm volume was 0.26 ± 0.07 mL with a concentration of 3.53 ± 0.82 (10⁹/mL). Sperm motility and viability averaged 76.90 ± 3.85% and 82.29 ± 10.21%, respectively, with a 74.98 ± 3.92% morphology. The pH of the semen was 7.31 ± 0.40. Model comparisons discovered that the multi-trait animal model using LG4 formed the most accurate genetic parameter estimates. Heritability values ranged from 0.20 for sperm volume to 0.40 for sperm concentration, motility, and viability, indicating a strong genetic influence on these parameters. There were favorable genetic and phenotypic relationships among characteristics, with substantial associations between volume, concentration, motility, and morphology. The selection index (SI) for the major features showed that sperm concentration (14% economic weight) was more important than motility (4%) and viability (5%). This study emphasizes the importance of sperm quality in breeding programs to improve reproductive success and genetic diversity in poultry production