Issue |
Genet. Sel. Evol.
Volume 39, Number 5, September-October 2007
|
|
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Page(s) | 513 - 528 | |
DOI | https://doi.org/10.1051/gse:2007018 | |
Published online | 27 September 2007 |
DOI: 10.1051/gse:2007018
Genotype by environment interactions in relation to growth traits in slow growing chickens
Aya Lydie N'Dria, Nadine Selliera, Michèle Tixier-Boichardb, Catherine Beaumonta and Sandrine Mignon-Grasteauaa UR83 Recherches avicoles, INRA, 37380 Nouzilly, France
b UMR1236 Génétique et diversité animales, INRA-INA PG, Domaine de Vilvert, 78352 Jouy-en-Josas, France
(Received 3 November 2006; accepted 19 April 2007; published online 27 September 2007)
Abstract -
Since feed conversion ratio (FCR) is higher in
slow-growing "Label Rouge" chickens than in broiler chickens, it is
important to work on its improvement in this breed. However, this involves
rearing animals in cages (C), an environment very different from that used
for selection (in floor pens, S) and production (outdoor, E). The aim of
this study was to evaluate the importance of genotype by environment
(G E) interactions between S, C, and E environments, to find the
best way to select for FCR, using 2002 related animals. Growth curve
parameters were estimated and body composition measured. Individual feed
conversion ratios (FCR) were recorded between 8 and 10 weeks in C. The
presence of G
E interactions was assessed by the genetic
correlations between the same trait recorded in different environments.
Moderate but significant G
E interactions were detected for carcass
traits, a significant one was observed between E and S or C for growth curve
parameters but none between C and S. If G
E interactions are set
aside, i.e. selecting on traits recorded in C, abdominal fatness is the best
indirect selection criterion for FCR but if they are taken in account then
leg yield or growth curve parameters in S and growth curve parameters in E
are better.
Key words: interaction / genetic parameters / feed efficiency / chicken / selection
Correspondence and reprints: grasteau@tours.inra.fr
© INRA, EDP Sciences 2007