IMPROVING GROWTH AND HEALTH PERFORMANCE IN HUBBARD AND

KABIR (Gallus gallus domesticus) PHENOTYPES THROUGH GENETIC

RECOMBINATION

APOLINAR, XYRA FAITH

ESTACION, LICEL BELLE
DE GUZMAN, ADELLE FAYE
JEREZA, KAYE
MARCOS, JESSEL
PUYONG, EVELYN
BIERNEZA, DENN CLOYD
DIESTRO ALBERT JOHN
LIMOS, BREXTER
NOGALADA, KIAN
ROBELLO, ALLISTER
VIAJE, RON RICO

BACHELOR OF SCEINCE IN VETERINARY TECHNOLOGY

OCTOBER 2022

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IMPROVING GROWTH AND HEALTH PERFORMANCE IN HUBBARD AND
KABIR (Gallus gallus domesticus) PHENOTYPES THROUGH GENETIC
RECOMBINATION

APOLINAR, XYRA FAITH

ESTACION, LICEL BELLE
DE GUZMAN, ADELLE FAYE
JEREZA, KAYE
MARCOS, JESSEL
PUYONG, EVELYN
BIERNEZA, DENN CLOYD
DIESTRO ALBERT JOHN
LIMOS, BREXTER
NOGALADA, KIAN
ROBELLO, ALLISTER
VIAJE, RON RICO

Project Outline Submitted to the Department of Veterinary Technology

College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Southern Mindanao,
Kabacan, Cotabato in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements
for the Zootech 213 Principles of Animal Breeding

BACHELOR OF SCEINCE IN VETERINARY TECHNOLOGY

OCTOBER 2022

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction 1

Significance of the Study 2

Objectives of the Study 3

Expected Outputs 3

Scope and Limitation of the Study 3

Time and Place of the Study 4

Operational Definition of Terms 4

Review Related Literature 5

Chicken 5

Hubbard Chicken Description and Origin 5

Biological Characteristics 6

Physical Characteristics 6

Reproductive Behavior 7

Kabir Chicken Description and Origin 7

Biological Characteristics 7

Physical Characteristics 8

Reproductive Behavior 8

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Methodology 9

Materials 9

Methods 9

Experimental Approach 9

Experimental Procedure 11

Housing 11

Feeding Management 11

Health and Sanitation 11

Collection of Growth Parameters 12

Body Weight and Weight Gain 11

Livability Rate 12

Morbidity Rate 12

Mortality Rate 13

Statistical Analysis 13

References 14

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 INTRODUCTION

Backyard poultry raising is a shared culture in rural communities, as

well as a valuable source of income. The introduction of new species is one

method of improving poultry production and type enhancement. The

introduction of new chicken species as a result of recombination from existing

chickens must be carefully evaluated in order to determine the viability of

species survival and avoid wasting time, money, and effort. The study sought

to document the physical and biological outcomes of Kabir and Hubbard

species recombination.

Today, poultry raising, along with the entire industry, is in crisis;

according to the FAO DAD-IS (Domestic Animal Diversity Information

System) database, 10.64% of the 875 officially recognized chicken breeds in

Europe will be extinct by February 2021. Because of the rising costs of

antibiotics, feed, and labor, as well as infrastructure requirements, a small-

time businessman cannot finance the needs of the business. Birds, like other

animals and plants, become susceptible to disease and stress if not

adequately medicated, thus requiring expensive raising, large quantities of

drugs, feed time, and controlled and artificial living conditions. Thus, this

study’s goal is to record the offspring's behavior, growth, and health

performance.

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Significance of the Study

This study is being conducted for the benefit and improvement of

society, as poultry management plays an important role in achieving

maximum meat production.

This study is significant because it will serve as a guide to compare the

different growth and performance of the different breeds in terms of genetic

recombination which will be beneficial to the manufacturer because they will

be effective in breed composition.

The Researcher. This research will be a useful reference for any researcher

who plans to conduct a similar study, as well as an instrument that will guide

the Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology program.

Professor. This research will help them in the discussion regarding to the

related lessons. It will be easier for them to address related topics in this

research.

Students. This serves as a guide and reference for students pursuing studies

in the poultry industry, as well as a method of producing better learning to

thrive in society.

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Objectives of the Study

This study will determine the growth and health performance of

Hubbard and Kabir phenotypes through genetic recombination.

Specifically, the study sought to determine the:

1. To determine the growth and health performance of offspring in

Kabir and Hubbard genetic recombination.

2. To monitor the effect of strain and Sex on weekly Body Weights

(kg).

3. To evaluate the effect of genetic improvement on the livability,

morbidity, and mortality rates of chicks.

Expected Outputs

The study's findings will provide scientific evidence for the use of Kabir

and Hubbard cross-breeding. It can be used as a reference for a related study

as well as information for future researchers. It may benefit poultry farmers to

some extent.

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Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study will only be limited to the growth and health performance of

Kabir and Hubbard Phenotypes through genetic recombination. This study

aims to determine the outcome of the Kabir and Hubbard genetic

recombination. The poultry animals that will be involved in this study is the

Kabir and Hubbard chicken.

Time and Place of the Study

The study will be conducted at Abellera street, Kabacan, Cotabato and

the College of Veterinary Medicine, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato. from October

to December 2022.

Operational Definition of Terms

The terms used in this study are listed and defined below.

Hubbard – the female chicken breed that will be used for cross-breeding.

Kabir – the male chicken breed that will be used for cross-breeding.

Genetic Recombination – a process of mating or hybridizing two different

breeds (Hubbard and Kabir).

Growth and Health Performance - The monitoring of the offspring's

development and general health

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Offspring – The phenotype that is produced by Hubbard and Kabir through

genetic recombination

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 REVIEW RELATED LITERATURE

The review provides a discussion of related literature and the definition of terms

that are significant in the study. It covers the background on the efficacy of the Chicken

Genetic Recombination of Hubbard and Kabir in terms of growth and health

performance and genetics. Hubbard and Kabir are described in terms of origin,

description, and health. The review and related literature are as follows;

Chicken

The chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) is one of the most common domestic

animals, it is a type of domesticated fowl, a subspecies of the red jungle fowl. Chicken is

one of the primary sources of food in humans consuming both meat and eggs and

rarely it serves as a pet. (Gaur, 2021)

The Hubbard Chicken

Description and Origin

The Hubbard chickens are broiler chickens grown by the Hubbard Breeders

Company. The company provides broiler stock of chickens to farmers and other

businesses all around the world. A broiler chicken has been bred and raised for the

purpose of producing meat. It originated from the Indian Subcontinent jungle fowl. The

broiler industry has grown since it is consumer demand, for affordable poultry meat and

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due to extensive breeding selection for rapid early growth and the husbandry used to

sustain this, broilers are susceptible to several welfare concerns, particularly skeletal

malformation and dysfunction, skin and eye lesions, and congestive heart conditions.

(Gerkensmeyer, 2020)

Biological Characteristics

The environment influences broiler behavior, which changes as the broilers' age

and body weight rapidly increase. Examining the frequency of all sexual behavior

reveals a significant decrease with age, indicating a decline in libido. The decline in

libido is insufficient to explain the reduced fertility in heavy cocks at 58 weeks, and it is

most likely due to the large bulk or conformation of the males at this age interfering in

some way with the transfer of semen during copulations that otherwise appear normal.

(P.M. Hocking, 2003)

Physical Characteristics

Hubbard chickens’ range in size from medium to large, depending on the

species. White, red, brown, black, grey, striped, multicolored, and any other color is

appropriate. They have short, robust legs that appear to travel faster than they can, as

well as thick yet supple feathers. Hubbard chickens can belong to a variety of species,

and some characteristics, such as the size of the animal's comb and beak, as well as

the length of its tail feathers, can vary. However, the feathers are generally thick.

(Gerkensmeyer, 2020)

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Reproductive Behavior

Hubbard broiler behavior changes with age and body weight. The activity of

broilers reared outdoors is initially greater than broilers reared indoors but from six

weeks of age. The Hubbard Broiler sexual behavior decreases with age, suggesting a

drop in libido. The fall in libido is not enough to explain diminished fertility in hefty cocks

at 58 weeks. The mass or conformation of the males at this age may interfere with the

transmission of semen during regular copulations. (P.M. Hocking, 2003)

The Kabir Chicken

Description and Origin

The Kabir originated in the Middle East specifically from Iran, in the Arabic

language, the word Kabir means “large” due to its enormous size. Kabir has an

exceptional characteristic that made it a popular breed of chicken for backyard and

small business flocks. Its popularity spread throughout the entire world as a result of its

unique qualities. The Kabir chicken usually weighted almost five (5) to six (6) kilos when

they are fully grown and matured around 5 months old. (Permites, 2009)

Biological Characteristics

Kabir breeds are strong and healthy in that they can be bred and reared without

antibiotics, resulting in higher earnings and lower expenses. Kabir chickens are similar

to native chickens. Due to its quick growth, excellent body conformation, and effective

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feed conversion, it is best for meat conversion. The chicken is resistant to disease,

illness, and heat stress. It has a “native” taste flavor and texture. (LaGuardia, 2021)

Physical Characteristics

Kabir chicken may be white, black, gray, reddish-orange, or a combination of the

colors mentioned. According to the literature, pure strains of Kabir are covered with

white/yellow feathers. Male Kabir can weigh as much as 2.5 kilos in just nine weeks

while a female Kabir can weigh as much as two kilos in the same number of weeks. The

Physical appearance of Kabir can be mistaken with a native chicken except that they

are bigger in stature. In terms of their movements, a full-grown Kabir is similar to that an

ostrich. Because of their weight, these chickens cannot fly high. Growths of loose, short,

and fine feathers are very observable in the lower portion of their thighs. (LaGuardia,

2021)

Reproductive Behavior

Chicken behavior involves dynamic movements. Roosters attract the female’s

attention using various courtship movements such as wing panicking and flapping,

spreading of feathers to increase perceived size, vocalizations, precopulatory waltz and

stressing of plumage characteristics. Competition among roosters was observable and

having two roosters in a cage oftentimes result in severe rivalry, fighting, serious injury

and even death. (Hirsch, 2003)

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 METHODOLOGY

The researchers discussed the methods used in this research: the materials,

experimental approach, management in housing, brooding, feeding, and in health. The

data were carefully recorded, analyzed and monitored, and utilized as a basis for the

development of Kabir and Hubbard genetic recombination.

Materials

The materials used in the study were the following: feeders, weighing scale,

housing facilities, record book for the effect of strain and sex on weekly body weight,

light bulbs, nets, broom, and extension wire.

Methods

Experimental Approach

Three (3) healthy months-old Hubbard chicken and months-old Kabir chicken

were used as the experimental animals to assess the effect of the chicken genetic

recombination. The different mean body weights of combined sex per breed, and

phenotypic body structures combining pure breeds used in the study were as follows:

Body weight combined per sex breed A=

Weeks 2

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Body weight combined per sex breed B=

Weeks 4

Body weight combined per sex breed C=

Weeks 6

Body weight combined per sex breed D=

Weeks 9

Body weight combined per sex breed E=

Weeks 12

Phenotypic body structure combining

pure breed A= Weeks 2

Phenotypic body structure combining

pure breed B= Weeks 4

Phenotypic body structure combining

pure breed C= Weeks 6

Phenotypic body structure combining

pure breed D= Weeks 9

Phenotypic body structure combining

pure breed E= Weeks 12

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Experimental Procedure

The data will be collected by the researchers. To begin, the researchers will monitor

Hubbard and Kabir's genetic recombination or mating stage. The researchers will surely

establish the chicken's stability. After that, when genetic recombination occurs, the

researchers will begin to collect data and will certainly analyze, monitor, and determine

all of the findings of Hubbard and Kabir's genetic recombination.

Housing

The cages were constructed using wooden barrels, nails, hammers, tie boxes,

and nets. The cages are divided into 3 compartments so that the researchers can

separate and recognize the genetic recombination of a male and female Hubbard, male

Hubbard and female Kabir, and the male and female Kabir until they can produce

offspring. As a result, the researchers can properly monitor the chicken genetic

recombination before the study begins.

Feeding Management

Diets for the offspring were implemented from pullet starter to post-peak. They

were fed from the first week up to the twelve weeks. Pullet starter will be given in the

first three weeks, and the chickens will be fed a post-peak from the 21 st day up to the

end of the study.

Health and Sanitation

The experiment for chicken genetic recombination involves the cleanliness in

cages and the surroundings were observed throughout the period of the study, for the

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safety of the chicken fencing will be done. Feeders and waterers were cleaned daily

prior to feeding and giving fresh water. Manure was disposed of every 2 days.

Collection of Growth Parameters (blank)

Body weight and weight gain (g/head)

Weight gain will be determined by computing the difference of the final weight at

the day of weighing the initial weight.

The formula to be used (Okpanniezeani et al., 2004) will be:

Weight gain= final weight- initial weight

Total weight gainof experimental birds treatment

Average weight gain=
Number of birds /treatment

Livability Rate

The formula will be used to count the number of alive and dead birds each day to

determine the birds' survivability. (Eddiemar, 2015).

Number of live−Number of deads

% Livability = x 100
Number of live birds

Morbidity Rate

Birds with disease will be recorded, and the morbidity rate will be calculated

using a formula over the course of the study. (Okpanniezeani et al., 2004).

Number of sick birds

Morbidity rate % ¿= x 100
Number of birds at risk

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Mortality Rate

Deaths will be recorded, and the mortality rate will be determined by the formula

(Gilani 2021).

Number of deaths
Mortality rate (%) = 𝑥 100
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑏𝑖𝑟𝑑𝑠

Phenoty

pic Body Structure

The researchers should use a record book and weekly monitoring to observe and

monitor the phenotypic body structure of offspring and the 3 months old Hubbard and 8

months old Kabir at the beginning and end of the study. Furthermore, the phenotypic

body structure of combining pure breeds and offspring were monitored at 2, 3, 6, 9, and

12 weeks.

Statistical Analysis

For Complete Random Design, the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) technique will be

used to analyze the data on body weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio (CRD).

Using percentages, average feed consumption, livability, morbidity, and mortality will be

examined.

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REFERENCES

Gaur, A. (2021, September 16). Chicken Additional Information. Britannica.

https://www.britannica.com/animal/chicken/additional-info#history

Gerkensmeyer, R. (2022, July 22). Hubbard Chickens. PetKeen. Retrieved October 22,
2022, from

https://petkeen.com/hubbard-chickens/

Hocking, P.M. (2003). Sexual behaviour and fertility in broiler breeder domestic fowl.
Sciencedirect.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0168159190901373#!

Permites, E. (2009). Kabir chicken materials. Royal Chick Farms, Inc.

https://lopehpoultry.blogspot.com/2009/10/kabirchicken.html?
m=1&fbclid=IwAR021nNVm16_zm-
KeKPe_aP6NG02zn8wD6jrf0jUFfGtdPGl7yY_Po8S8_A

LaGuardia, B. (2021, July 2). Poultry Chicken what is Kabir. Agriculture and livestock.

https://putakputak.com/poultry/chickens/what-is-kabir-chicken/

Hirsch, V. (2003). Brief Summary of the Biology and Behavior of the Domestic Chicken.
Animal legal and historical center.

https://www.animallaw.info/article/brief-summary-biology-and-behavior-chicken

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