ABSTRACT
The issues associated with biotechnological approach to genetic diversity conservation
of Nigerian indigenous chickens (NIC) in readiness for future breed development were
reviewed. It was observed that NIC genetic diversity is relatively wide with unique
traits that are peculiar to the Nigerian environment. Characterization of NIC as reported
by some researchers is based on location, ecotype and plumage arrangement.
Information gathered in the present study shows that conscious selective breeding,
natural catastrophes, unstable policies from public and private sectors, limited funds for
the establishment of biotechnological conservation centres, and inadequacy of skilled
manpower are a major set-back to the molecular characterization and biotechnological
approach for effective improvement and genetic conservation of desirable traits in NIC
rather than by the conventional pure breeding, crossbreeding and artificial genetic
selection techniques. It was found that there are obvious numerous constraints to be
overcome if biotechnologies are to make a significant positive contribution to the
conservation of desirable traits in NIC. When these challenges are overcome, especially
through the application of genomics and molecular DNA marker research, the danger
of extinction and fear of genetic erosion of the NIC‟s rare genes will be maximally
reduced. |
KEYWORDS: |
genetic diversity, Nigerian indigenous chickens, conservation, molecular
marker, conventional breeding |
