Semen Quality and Reproductive Performance of Three Nigerian Local Chicken Ecotypes: Insights for Genetic Improvement and Breeding Strategies

This study evaluated the semen quality and fertility performance of three Nigerian local chicken ecotypes:Normal feathered (NF), Naked neck (NN), and Ruffle feathered (RF). Semen samples were collected weeklyover four weeks from five roosters per ecotype, pooled per group, and assessed for volume, motility, andbiochemical parameters, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatinekinase (CK). The semen was subsequently inseminated into groups of ten hens of corresponding ecotypes.Results revealed significant differences among ecotypes, with NN showing superior semen volume (0.38 ±0.04 mL) and motility (81.5 ± 2.8 %), while RF exhibited the lowest values. Biochemical analysis indicatedthat LDH and CK activities were positively correlated with semen quality traits, suggesting their role insupporting sperm metabolism. Fertility rates reflected the semen quality trends, with NN achieving thehighest hatchability (85%), followed by NF (76%) and RF (68%). Correlation analysis revealed moderateto strong positive associations between semen quality parameters and biochemical markers (r = 0.59–0.88).This underscores their potential for use as selection criteria for reproductive improvement. These findingsprovide insights into the reproductive physiology of Nigerian indigenous chickens and offer valuable guidancefor genetic improvement and sustainable poultry production in resource-limited settings.