Genetic Improvement Strategies for Broilers and Layers

Chicken was the first animal species in which Mendelian inheritance was demonstrated. A century later, the chicken was the first among farm animals to have its genome sequenced. The last several decades have seen a dramatic transition in poultry genetics, both in commercial breeding and research focus. Industrial production has facilitated replacement of the dual purpose chicken by stocks bred specifically for meat or eggs. The broiler and layer breeding companies have utilised different breeding and selection technologies at different period of time for the genetic improvement different economic traits. The main aim of this book is to compile all the published information on genetic improvement strategies followed in broilers and layers. The first Chapter is the general introduction about the commercial breeding programmes and improvements made in different economic traits over the decades by them. The second and third Chapters are devoted to the genetic improvement strategies for the broilers and layers respectively. This book is addressed to broad audience and the information presented will provide valuable guidance to scientists and breeders involved in poultry industry.