Characterization of Qualitative and Quantitative Traits of Four Types of Indonesian Native Chickens as Ancestor of New Strains of Local Super Laying Hens

An important aspect that determines the productivity of native chickens is the genetic factor. Improving the genetic quality of chickens can be done through a breeding program which involves the selection and arrangement of mating lines. The objective of the research project is to find basic information on the ancestor's qualitative and quantitative traits to produce a new Indonesian native chicken laying-hens strain. The ancestors used as the genetic source are four native chicken lines: White, Lurik, Wareng, and Ranupane (male and female). Qualitative traits were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and quantitative data were analyzed with ANOVA of a two-level Nested Classification followed by the Least Significant Difference test. The results showed differences in plumage and shank color in each chicken line. In cocks, there were differences ( P < 0.05) in body weight, wing length, tail length, head circumference, and front-body width. The height, body circumference, shank length, and beak length differed ( P < 0.05) between hen lines. Qualitative characteristics (plumage and shank colors) can be used as a marker for native chicken lines. They can be used as a reference for selection according to the objectives of the breeding program. Body conformation (weight and height) can be used as selection criteria for ancestors (male and female) to produce new strains of laying native hens.