Strain effects on association and relationship between productivity and hatchability traits in poultry layers at full sexual maturity

The effect of strain on the association and relationship among productive and hatching traits at full-sexual maturity in Bovan Nera (BN) and Isa Brown (IB) parent-stock layers was investigated. Data on productive and hatchability traits were obtained on 22 batches of BN and IB each, between 2009 and 2019, from a reputable parent stock breeding company in Ibadan, Nigeria. Data were subjected to Pearson’s correlation and regression procedures using the Statistical Analytical Systems, version 9.0. Paired correlation parametric indices and regression equations differentiated between the two strains investigated. A significant association of weight gain at full maturity with feed intake at full maturity in IB (r = –0.54, p < 0.01) as against a weak/insignificant association in BN was observed. Feed intake from first egg at full maturity was identified as most important trait for improved hen-day egg productivity at full maturity and beyond in IB. Viable day-old pullet chicks hatched in the BN could be predicted with high level of accuracy (R2 = 0.83, RMSE = 2.75). Regression analyses showed that both strains belong to distinct genotypic classes with different and specific genetic attributes.