EFFECT OF SIRE AND DAM GENOTYPE ON LITTER PERFORMANCE OF RABBITS IN THE TROPICS

Abstract

The study investigated the effect ofsire and dam genotype on litter performance of rabbits reared at different seasons in Abeokuta, Nigeria.A total of 39 rabbit of 6 genotypes (California White, New Zealand Red, Chinchilla breeds, Chinchilla x California White, Chinchilla x New Zealand Red and California White x New Zealand Red) and comprising 9 purebred bucks (3 per genotype) and 30 pure and crossbred does (5 per genotype) were mated to generatepure and crossbred kittens. Data on litter size and litter weight from each genetic group at 3 and 6 weeks of age were subjected to analyses of variance. Results revealed that sire genotype had significant (p < 0.05) effect only on litter weight. The New Zealand Red sire produced kittens with the highest (p< 0.05) litter weight, this as followed by kittens sired by the Chinchilla, thenthe California White rabbit. Litter size and litter weight of rabbits were however significantly (p<0.05) influenced by dam genotype. Results further showed that litter weight was higher (p < 0.05) in crossbred dams than their purebred counterparts. Kitten also recorded higher (p < 0.05) litter size and weight during the wet seasons when compared to the dry seasons at 6 weeks of age. The present work suggests that the use of performance records of both sire and dam genotype as well as impact of seasonal variations should be considered when planning breeding programmes aimed at improvinglitter traits in rabbits.