Gamefowl Genetics

Book excerpt: Breeding gamefowls is a complex and intricate process that requires a solid understanding of the principles of genetics. You need to grasp how DNA works and how it determines the traits of your gamefowls. DNA is a molecule that stores the information for the development and function of living organisms. For instance, human DNA contains the instructions for all the characteristics of a person. Gamefowl DNA operates in a similar way. Genes are segments of DNA that code for specific traits. We learned about genes in school and how they are inherited from parents to offspring. Different breeding methods aim to manipulate the genes of gamefowls to produce desirable outcomes. However, breeding is not a random or arbitrary activity. It is a scientific and systematic approach that involves careful planning and prediction. You can experiment with different combinations of gamefowls, but you can only achieve success if you can anticipate the results with reasonable accuracy and minimize the risks. The purpose of this eBook is to educate the average gamefowl enthusiast, as well as the beginner breeder, on how to select gamefowls based on their genetic potential, how to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of different breeding methods, and how to apply the best breeding method for gamefowls according to the author’s opinion.