Phenotypic Characterization of Malaysian Village Chicken Ecotypes in Peninsular Malaysia

Amie Marini Abu Bakar; Noraini  Samat; Azlina Azma  Ismail Affendee; Roziatul Erin  Abdul Razak; Nooraisyah  Saharani; Mohd Hafizzudin  Ayob; Mohd Firdaus  Othman; Mohd Hishammfariz  Mohd Amin; Nadiatur Akmar  Zulkifli; Shairah  Abdul Razak

doi:10.55230/mabjournal.v54i4.3374

Authors

Amie Marini Abu Bakar
amieza@mardi.gov.my
Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Noraini Samat Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Azlina Azma Ismail Affendee Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Roziatul Erin Abdul Razak Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Nooraisyah Saharani Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Mohd Hafizzudin Ayob Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Mohd Firdaus Othman Livestock Science Research Centre, MARDI, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Mohd Hishammfariz Mohd Amin Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security, Putrajaya, Malaysia
Nadiatur Akmar Zulkifli Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
Shairah Abdul Razak Department of Applied Physics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia

Keywords:

Indigenous chicken, morphological trait, native breed, qualitative trait

Abstract

Livestock characterization is vital for effectively developing, breeding and conserving Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR). Beyond breed development, there is a growing need for the livestock genomic sector to become more accessible, ensuring its applications contribute to conservation initiatives as well. This study focused on identification and evaluation of diverse village chicken ecotypes in Peninsular Malaysia based on their distinct phenotypic characteristics. A total of 459 chickens, commonly known as Ayam Kampung, were sampled from 15 different indigenous ecotypes. These chickens were assessed for a range of traits, including plumage color and pattern, comb type and color, as well as beak, and shank color. The findings revealed noticeable physical differences among the ecotypes, with five major groups identified: Arab chickens, cockfighting chickens, Kurik chickens, Naked Neck chickens, and multicolor chickens. The most prevalent traits observed were multicolor plumage, yellow-brown beak, and yellow shank, with red single and pea/walnut comb types also frequently present. These variations, shaped by environmental and human factors, are at risk of disappearing due to disease, human interference, and the introduction of other breeds. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the morphological characteristics of village chickens, making a significant contribution to future breeding programs. These insights are also crucial for preserving these unique genetic resources, maintaining biodiversity and their sustainable use in the future.

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