Biometric Trait Characterization and Multivariate Discriminant Analysis of Traditionally Bred Autochthonous Chickens in Ethiopia

Abstract

The biometric characterization of autochthonous Ethiopian chickens has not been fully investigated in the study area. In this study, we aimed to conduct biometric trait characterization and multivariate discriminant analysis of traditionally bred autochthonous chickens in Ethiopia and assess the wide range of phenotypic diversity within these populations. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used, and data on biometric traits and body weight were collected from adult chickens. Principal component and correlation analyses were performed to explore the discriminating factors and relationships among traits. All autochthonous chickens showed clear sexual dimorphism, with the Agarfa chickens having the highest biometric traits and body weight. Across the study area, the majority of biometric values showed variation between age group 1 (AG-1) and age group 3 (AG-3). All autochthonous chickens showed a strong correlation between wingspan and back length (p ≤ 0.001). Roosters and hens also showed a strong correlation between the keel and neck length (p ≤ 0.001). Principal component 1 (PC1) and principal component 2 (PC2) explained 56.44%, 55.09%, and 47.86% of the total variation in the original variables for all autochthonous chickens, roosters, and hens, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed the existence of biometric trait and body weight variations among autochthonous chickens from different districts. Therefore, genetic profiling should be performed to better understand the genetic potential of autochthonous Ethiopian chickens.