Estimation of genetic parameters for some performance traits in a selected barred rock line

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the genetic correlation and heritability for age at sexual maturity, body weight at sexual maturity, egg yield, egg weight, egg shape index and L*, a*, b* values of egg shell in a Barred Rock line was applied selection. For this aim, a total of 1622 pedigreed Barred Rocks were selected. The present estimated heritability values for investigated traits were found between moderate-to-high. However, the heritability of egg yield, eggshell color and body weight at sexual maturity were found lower than those of other traits. It was calculated positive correlations among monthly egg yields, especially between egg yield at the second month with total egg yield. As a conclusion, selection studies did not cause much decrease in genetic variation of studied traits, except for egg yield and body weight at sexual maturity. Monthly egg yield data can be used selection studies.