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Genetic diversity of the Nigerian local chickens

Research · May 2015

DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.1.2837.9044

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Kolawole Odubote
Zambian Open University
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GENETIC DIVERSITY OF THE NIGERIAN LOCAL CHICKEN

I.K. ODUBOTE
DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL SCIENCE
FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE
OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY
ILE-IFE, OSUN STATE
NIGERIA
 2
ABSTRACT

The paper is aimed at characterizing the genetic resources that

exist in the Nigerian Local Chicken. Information were thus
obtained through questionnaire administration and Rapid Rural
Appraisal techniques. Also some of the local chicken were acquired
from the different zones of Nigeria and established at the Poultry
unit of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, thus
permitting closer visual evaluation and morphometric measurements.

The identification and characterization of the Nigerian Local

Chicken types was based on ecological considerations and striking
morphological/phenotypic features. The latter appears to be a
sound method of characterization, more so, when it conform to the
synonyms by which they are identified locally. Thus the Nigerian
Local Chicken were characterized using three broad criteria namely
body size (Dwarf, Normal, Fulani); feather characteristics (Naked,
Frizzle feathered, Crested, Feathered legs, Short flight
feathered, Smooth feathered - White, Black and Barred); and other
morphological features.

Nonetheless, variations still exist within the types identified.

It is, however, not clear if the Nigerian Local Chicken represent
a broad spectrum of a single population or are in fact different
populations. Information were provided on synonyms, physical
characteristics, location, population size, performance records,
special attributes, preference and local use. General description
of the Nigerian Local Chicken for other physical characteristics
like skin, shank, beak, comb, plumage, egg, wattle and ear lobe,
colors were also provided. Photographs illustrating all the types
were included. It was emphasized that due to the decline in the
population of some chicken types namely Naked neck and Frizzle
feathered, coupled with their economic importance, efforts aimed
at their conservation should be given priority.

INTRODUCTION

Genetic diversity is the bedrock of genetic improvement. Hence

efforts geared towards conservation of genetic resources
(diversity) should be embraced by scientist/researchers and policy
makers alike. Conservation of animal genetic resources include,
identification, characterization and utilization (development) of
the various types, strains or breeds of livestock as well as
rescuing breeds that are classified as endangered or critical
(FAO, 1986). While these efforts have reached an advanced stage
in Europe, it is in its infancy in Africa, mainly due to
non-recognition of its crucial importance. Nevertheless, Africa is
 3
acknowledged as one of the continents having the largest animal
genetic resources in the world.

Hence this report is aimed at the documentation of the various

types of Nigerian Local Chicken to enhance active conservation.

LITERATURE REVIEW

The Nigerian Local Chicken is perhaps the most diversified of all

the species of indigenous livestock in Nigeria. The body size,
plumage color, feather characteristics and distribution are not
uniform but highly variable. Nevertheless, they are small body
sized being largely unimproved. According to Eshiett and Okere
(1990) evidence from earlier studies by Hill (1954) and Hill and
Modebe (1960) showed that many varieties of indigenous fowls are
located within the humid tropical environment with some unique
characteristics. However the various types have not been
adequately identified and characterized to highlight their
peculiarities and potentials (Odubote, 1994a).

To date there are basically two broad methods of characterization

which are in use for the Nigerian Local Chicken. These are
Ecological and Phenotypic.

ECOLOGICAL:

This is based on the theory that evolutionary trend has subjected

livestock generally to forces of genetic change. These forces
include mutation, migration, genetic drift, mating systems and
natural selection. These often lead to similarities among animals
within an area or ecological zone (or localization of animals).
Oluyemi and Roberts (1979) had earlier on described the Indigenous
poultry as undeveloped breed or variety of any specie of poultry
which has evolved characteristics peculiar to a geographical
location. This is a general description without the benefit of
empirical, qualitative or quantitative data and as such vague. The
classification is thus debatable.

Reports in the literature showed that most of these phenotypic

similarities cut across ecological zones. Nonetheless, strains or
populations based on ecological classification have been reported
or mentioned in literature in Nigeria. This include Nsukka, Owerri
and Awgu (Nwosu et al 1985; Eshiett et al 1989), Ibadan (Hill
1954, Hill and Modebe, 1961) and Ife (Akinokun, 1974, Akinokun and
Dettmers, 1979) and Fulani -referring to the tribe (Atteh, 1990).
The classification is, however, grossly deficient and weak since
the characteristics of the birds from these locations are not in
any way unique. Hence the need for a better method of
characterization.
 4

PHENOTYPIC:

This classification is based on the expression of readily

identifiable phenotypic characteristics (traits) which have been
noted to be mostly determined by major genes. Akinokun (1974) had
earlier on identified the following traits : Crested, Frizzle
feathered, dwarf and Naked neck in the Nigerian Local Chicken.
Sonaiya and Olori (1990), however, first referred to chickens
exhibiting the traits as types. In this regard the authors
identified five predominant types which include Smooth feathered
single color, Mottled color, Frizzle feather, Dwarf and Naked
neck. Nonetheless, identification of the types were not based on
any criteria and is not encompassing. Hence the need to
re-evaluate this method.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A country wide survey was conducted to determine the various types

of the Nigerian Local Chicken using questionnaire administration
and Rapid Rural Appraisal techniques. Some of the local chickens
were later acquired from the different ecological zones in Nigeria
and established at the Poultry unit of the Obafemi Awolowo
University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, thus permitting closer visual
evaluation. For this study two main features were used namely body
size and feather characteristics. From literature, these are the
two main factors responsible for differences in the Nigerian Local
Chicken. The FAO (1986) descriptor lists for poultry was adopted
for this study with little modification. Also, the FAO (1992)
framework for risk classification of breeds and program for
action was followed as regards rating of population status.

The characterization may be viewed as a deviation of the various

types identified from the normal sized, smooth feathered chickens.
The synonyms refer to the names by which the chicken types are
known in various communities of South West of Nigeria. The list,
however ,is by no means exhaustive. This classification to a large
extent is genetic as it conforms with the expression of the major
genes. It is also in conformity with the definition of breed by
Sponnenberg (1991) that genetic breed is a uniform population that
when interbred reproduces itself.

RESULTS

The different types of the Nigerian Local chicken identified and

characterized are as shown below.

A: BODY SIZE
 5
1: Type : Dwarf
Synonyms : Arupe; Oseere.
Population : Rare.
Characteristics : It is characterized by short shank
length of less than 6cm. Thus it has a small body size. Body
weight is generally less than 700g. It is determined by
recessive sex linked gene which is likely to be sex limited
as no male dwarf was observed. Mean height at saddle is less
than 18cm. It is noted to attain sexual maturity at an
early age (4 months) and highly broody. Fig 1.
Utility or Preference : Rearing of chicks.

2. Type : Normal size.

Synonyms : Adie gidi.
Population : Normal.
Characteristics : The characteristics are variable especially
colors. They appear normal. The shank length varies between
7 and 9 cm. Mean Height at saddle is 23cm for males and 20cm
for females. Mode of inheritance is dominant sex linked gene
(Dw). Fig 2.
Utility or Preferences : Meat and Chick production.

3. Type : Fulani
Synonyms : Nupe; Tapa; Bororo.
Population : Normal (but majorly owned by Fulani
cattle rearers.
Characteristics : It is bigger than the other types. It is
characterized by its long legs (Shank length measures between
10 and 13 cm. Mean height at saddle is 24 and 22 for males
and females respectively. This has been associated with the
Fulani cattle rearers i.e. Fulani Agro pastoralist. Fig 3.
Utility or Preference : For meat production. Used to cross
female chickens of Southern origin.

B. FEATHER CHARACTERISTICS.

This include plumage pigmentation, structure and distribution of

feather covering.

1. Type : Naked neck.

Synonyms : Abolorun; Kobokobo; Soyoyo; Obhonurra.
Population : Threatened.
Characteristics : The neck region is devoid of feathers.
At times the head is also bald. The neck region have a
tougher skin and thus meat. The breast region may also be
without feathers. It is bigger than the other types except
 6
the Fulani type, mature weight is 1.25kg on the average.
Mode of inheritance is incomplete dominance Na). Fig 4.
Utility or Preference: Due to the 'ugliness' it is usually
culled although used for sacrifices by herbalsists. May
possess greater efficiency of thermo regulation. Also used
for meat production and chick rearing.

2. Type : Frizzle feathered

Synonyms : Lasihara; Asa; Azaha;
Population : Threatened
Characteristics : The body is covered with upturned or
outward curling feathers. The feathers thus appear rough. The
skin is usually visible during slight breeze. The feathers
stand out. They are very nervous, broody and flighty. It is
similar to the normal sized. Mode of inheritance is
incomplete dominance (F ). Fig 5.
Utility or Preferences: Due to the ugliness or irritating
sight, it is normally culled. It is however used by
herbalists for sacrifices. Also used for egg production and
chick rearing

3. Type : Short flight feathered.

Synonyms : Opipi; Pipi; Lopi; Izah
Population : Rare.
Characteristics : The birds are characterized with little or
no flight feathers.(The sickle, tail and wing feathers are
lacking. Present in both sexes. Fig 6.
Utility or Preference : Not clear

4. Type : Smooth feathered

Synonyms : Alaradidan; Okhokho.
Population : Normal. The population is regarded
as conglomeration of 4 sub types.
Characteristics : The feather covering are neither lacking
nor frizzled. They are held close to the body. The smooth
feathered chicken cuts across all the types except Naked
neck, frizzled and short flight feathered. Fig 7.
Utility or Preference: This depends on plumage color as
mentioned below. Essentially for meat and chick rearing.

Sub types are classified on the basis of plumage colors.

4a. Sub-Type : White

Synonyms : Adie funfun.
Population : Normal.
Characteristics : It is self white . Fig 8
Utility or Preference : Used for sacrifices.
 7

4b. Sub-Type : Black

Synonyms : Adie dudu.
Population : Normal.
Characteristics : It is self black . Fig 9.
Utility or Preference : Used for sacrifices.

4c. Sub-Type : Mottled

Synonyms : Eleta; Alawometa;
Population : Normal.
Characteristics : It consist of variable colors usually
combination of white, red and black. Fig 10.
Utility or Preference : Not clear.

4d. Sub-Type : Barred

Synonyms : Asa
Population : Rare
Characteristics : The color of the plumage is usually
black or brown inter laced with white though could be
irregular. Alternate transverse markings of two
distinct colors on a feather. Mode of inheritance is
dominant sex linked (B). Fig 11.
Utility or Preference : Not clear

5. Type : Feathered legs ( Shanks)

Synonyms : Not available
Population : Rare.
Characteristics : The legs are covered with feathers to
varying degrees. Present in both sexes. According to
Akinokun (1991) about 10% of the Ife ecotype evaluated
on station had feathered shanks. Fig 12.
Utility or Preference : Fancy.

6. Type : Crested
Synonyms : Olosusu; Osu.
Population : Rare.
Characteristics : It is characterized by fluff of
feathers on the frontal part of the skull.
Performance : It has been reported by Akinokun (1991)
that crested chickens lay 30 more eggs than non crested
for hen housed in 10 months. It is reported to be highly
broody though small sized. Mode of inheritance is
suspected to be sex linked single recessive gene (Cr).
Had lower laying house mortality. Fig 13.
Utility : Fancy, Egg production and chick rearing.
 8

C: OTHER MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES

This is the general description of the Nigerian Local Chicken for

certain traits which are either specific or general.

Skin color - Skin color is either white or yellow.

Shank color- Colors observed include white, yellow and

black and grey. The shank, occasionally are scaly.

Beak color - Could be yellow, brown, grey or black.

Comb type and color - The predominant comb type is single.

However, rose, walnut, pea and duplex types were also observed
though rare. The comb color is either pink or red while the
size of the comb are reduced in females.

Wattle and ear lobe color - The wattle color is either red
or pink. Ear lobe however could be red, pink or white.
According to the report of Akinokun (1991) on Ife collection,
between 3 and 10% of males and between 70 and 82% of females
had white ear lobe. The size of the wattle are reduced in
female.

Plumage color - This cuts across the various chicken types.

The plumage color include white, black, brown with various
laced colors, red, mottling and barred. Rare color include
light orange, yellow, grey, white laced and mottled with other
colors. The cocks are mainly gold or gold with white necks or
occasionally white, black or red (Nwosu et al., 1985).

Egg shell color - This could be white, tinted (light brown) or

brown.

Biometrical measurement - The mean neck length, back length

and shank length at maturity have been found to vary between
10.37 and 10.53cm, 16.31 and 17.87cm, and 7.26 and 7.54cm
respectively (Nwosu et al 1985; Eshiett and Okere 1990)

DISCUSSION

Due to the nature of the production system there is a gradual

though unconscious erosion of the genetic base of the Nigerian
Local Chicken ( Odubote, 1994a). This is as a result of the
offtake of the 'best' cocks and hens for sales and other uses.
Also there is culling of the Naked neck, Frizzle feathered, White
and Black chicken types for sacrifices or occultic uses. This has
 9
put the Naked neck and Frizzle feathered at risk. Coupled with
this is the fact that these two types are particularly disliked by
the poultry keepers for their 'irritating' or 'ugly' sight.
However, these two chicken types have been noted to have promise
for meat and egg production (Horst, 1988; Ibe, 1992 ). There is
therefore the need to maintain and preserve these genetic
resources.

The two chicken types could be of importance in the breeding for

genetic improvement of the Nigrian local Chicken as earlier
suggested by Akinokun (1991). Akinokun (1991) stated that it might
be advantageous to use the crested type of indigenous stock for
egg production or start a breeding program for the improvement of
indigenous chicken egg production with the crested chicken as the
base stock. Akinokun (1990) had earlier suggested that further
investigation be carried out to determine the relationship between
these readily available characteristics and economic traits such
as body weight, egg weight, egg production and general adaptation
to the environment.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The author wish to acknowledge the criticism and comments on the
manuscript by Dr P.K. Mathur of the Institute of Basic Animal
Sciences, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany.

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 10
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