Phenotypic Characterization and Genetic Diversity of Indigenous Chickens of Jordan in Comparison With Native and Commercial Breeds for Conservation and Breeding Purposes

Indigenous chickens of Jordan are facing extinction and need genetic conservation because they were unable to commercially compete in poultry industry because of low genetic ability compared to commercial layers. The study aimed to investigate phenotypic and genetic diversity of village chickens in the Jordan using discriminant analyses procedures to provide a basis for sustainable genetic conservation and utilization program to overcome any possible extinction. The sampled chicken population of 578 one-year old chickens (125 males and 433 females) was phenotypically characterized for 15 biometric and plumage traits from major cities of the three regions; Middle, North, and South. The traits variations within and between breeds were detected statistically by stepwise discriminant and canonical-discriminant of uni- and multivariate analyses. The results showed the sampled population as village chickens in Jordan is comprised of indigenous (Baladi) breed (85%) and few exotic and commercial breeds. The breeds were distinct and differentiated based on phenotypic traits indicating high genetic variability. The major phenotypic traits that showed significant power to differentiate breeds were comb type, body weight, comb size, earlobe color, wattle size, face color and breast size in males and comb type and size, body weight, face and breast size, leg color and wattle size in females. Recent and past crossings, admixture or migration from exotic and commercial breeds were noted. Moreover, low levels of phylogeographic structure were observed across the studied breeds. In conclusion, there is need to conserve the indigenous breed in situ and in vivo for its adaptive gene pool in coming days of persisted climate change and diseases threats.