Studies on the relation of gonadic structure to plumage characterisation in the domestic fowl. IV. - Gonad cross-transplantation in leghorn and campine

Abstract

Among the modern breeds of the domestic fowl it is possible to distinguish two types with regard to plumage characterisation. There are those breeds in which a typical dimorphism of the plumage in the two sexes in present. In some breeds this dimorphism is referable to regional differences in the shape, structure and colour of the feathers in male and female; in other breeds although shape and structure of the feathers are different the colour is the same. On the other hand, in the Sebright bantam and the hen-feathered Campine the plumage in both sexes is of the same type, being similar to that of the hen of those breeds in which sex-dimorphism of the plumage normally exists. The Campine is of particular interest for the reason that the breed includes two distinct strains, one showing a typical sex-dimorphism in respect to plumage whereas in the other the plumage of the male and female is similar in colour and structure.