IMPACT OF CROSSING MUSCOVY AND SUDANI (EGYPTIAN MUSCOVY) DUCKS ON SOME GROWTH PARAMETERS

Abstract

The objective of this study is to improve productive performance for Sudani duck by crossing its females with Muscovy males. At 32 wks of age, the Muscovy males (M) were mated with Sudani (S) females. Body weight was recorded according to the marketing age of each strain and the cross, body weight gain; growth rate and feed conversion ratio were weekly calculated. Body measurements were measured from the second week of age. The obtained results showed that the Muscovy and hybrids (MS cross) had significantly the heaviest body weight compared to Sudani ones. A similar trend was found for in the MS cross at all ages when compared to Sudani or Muscovy duck. Concerning feed conversion ratio (4-6 wks), the results showed that there was no significant difference among strains. However, the hybrids (MS cross) had the worst feed conversion ratio compared to their parents from 2-4, 6-8 and 2-8 weeks of age. The MS cross had significantly higher body measurements at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 weeks of age compared to their parents. In conclusion, the hybrids (MS cross) recorded the best value (positive heterosis) for body weight at all ages With respect to growth rate, the heterosis had positive effect at all ages except from 4-5 and 9-10 weeks of age.