VARIATIONS IN MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS IN THE THREE STRAINS OF NIGERIA LOCAL TURKEY REARED IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study was aimed to provide baseline information on the genetic variation among local turkey populations using morphometric traits. A total of one hundred ninety-seven local turkeys at reproductive stage were used for the study, comprising of 71 White, 61 Black and 65 Lavender and were characterized under field condition following standard descriptors. All the three (3) senatorial zones present in Kano State were covered. Body weight was obtained using a weighing scale while
five body measurements (body length, breast circumference, thigh length, shank length and wing length) were measured using tailor‟s tape rule (cm). Data generated were subjected to the analysis of variance using the general linear model procedure of SAS, (2003). Significant differences among means observed were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test Procedure. The effect of strain on morphometric traits showed significant (P<0.05) difference in body weight and shank length. The highest and longest mean value (4.65 ± 0.22 kg) and (12.58 ± 0.22 cm) for body weight and shank length respectively was recorded in lavender turkey respectively, which was higher than (4.43 ± 0.17kg) and (4.01 ± 0.19kg) recorded in black and white turkeys respectively. The result of turkey with respect to sex indicated a significant (P<0.05) effect of sex in all traits measured. The male had a mean body weight value (5.20 ± 0.19kg), while the female had (3.56 ± 0.09kg). In conclusion, lavender strain is hereby recommended for the breeders as a strain of choice due to its passion of gene for faster growth that could be utilized in the genetic improvement of growth through selection than the other strains.