16 Poultry Breeding
16.1 Overview
This chapter explains unique features of poultry breeding with separate sections for broilers, layers, and turkeys.
16.2 Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
- Describe the structure of integrated poultry breeding companies
- Explain why poultry breeding allows rapid genetic progress
- Compare breeding objectives for broilers, layers, and turkeys
- Identify major genetic correlations affecting poultry breeding
- Understand the role of family-based selection in poultry
16.3 Global Poultry Industry Structure
Chapter Status
This chapter is currently under development. Content will cover:
- Vertical integration (genetics, hatchery, grow-out, processing)
- Major breeding companies (Cobb-Vantress, Aviagen, Hy-Line International)
- Proprietary synthetic lines
- Closed nucleus populations
16.4 Unique Features of Poultry Breeding
- Short generation intervals (9-12 months)
- High selection intensity
- Family-based selection
- Rapid genetic progress
16.5 Broiler Breeding
16.5.1 Key Traits
- Body weight at processing age: h² = 0.30-0.50
- Feed efficiency (FCR, RFI): h² = 0.25-0.40
- Carcass traits: h² = 0.30-0.50
- Leg health: h² = 0.10-0.30
16.5.2 Breeding Objectives
Content to be developed.
16.6 Egg-Laying Hen Breeding
16.6.1 Key Traits
- Egg production: h² = 0.20-0.40
- Egg quality: h² = 0.30-0.60
- Feed efficiency: h² = 0.25-0.35
16.6.2 Breeding Objectives
Content to be developed.
16.7 Turkey Breeding
16.7.1 Key Traits
- Growth: h² = 0.30-0.50
- Carcass traits: h² = 0.30-0.50
- Reproduction: h² = 0.05-0.15 (very low)
16.7.2 Unique Challenges
Content to be developed.
16.8 Summary
Poultry breeding is the most intensive and rapid form of livestock breeding, with short generation intervals enabling fast genetic progress.
16.9 Key Points
- Short generation intervals and high selection intensity enable fast progress
- Genetic correlations between production and welfare require balanced selection
- Industry consolidation means a few companies supply global genetics