Abstract
Abstract
This study was conducted to estimate the specific cross and reciprocal effects on body weight traits in a diallel mating involving four selected genetic groups of native chickens. Experimental stocks were four genetic groups of native chicken, i.e. Paraokan (A), Banaba (B), Camarines (C), and Bolinao (D. Each cross per genetic group consisted of 3 roosters and 9 hens with 25 and 26 months old as parental stocks. A total of 362 F1 hybrids were used in this study. Observation on the growth traits were carried out for 16 weeks. A full diallel cross design were used in this study. Results of cross which were estimated with specific combining ability (SCA) showed varying magnitudes in the estimates of all ages considered. The BC cross consistently showed the highest SCA effect at 4,8,12, and 16 weeks of age. The reciprocal effects of DB and DC showed positive estimates at all ages studied, indicated that they may have higher potential than the original cross in term of improving the body weight traits.