dividual chickens as a routine procedure. An
individual’s own performance record, along
with her relatives’ and her progeny records
can then be used to train these panels to identified SNPs associated with each of the performances traits measured (usually around 30
traits for egg layer hens) in the populations.
So the genotypes can now be a new way to
estimate the breeding values of the individuals of the populations. The genotyping can be
performed before the bird has its own record
available, allowing selection to occur before
phenotyping has been done.
The technology of WGS is opening up
population’s structures in breeding programs.
Hens can now have progeny with multiple
sires, opening up more genetic variation than
traditional breeding structures thus getting
faster access to more natural genetic variation
within populations for improved bird performance and well being. WGS allows more rapid
generation turnaround time for egg layer populations which in turn will be translated into better rates of genetic gain with respect to time;
here at Hy-Line we are confident we are halving the generation interval.
DBK 2000 Visit us at IPE Booth 1428
trim 2 birds at a time
up to 2,000 birds per hour per two man team
accurately control cauterization time and temperature
accurately control chick count per cage
ability to remove cage liners at time of beak trimming
ability to seperate chicks with accurate chick count at
time of beak trimming
operator comfort through air ride seat
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Precision Beak Trimming
A key for social behavior
Finally the technique will provide accurate individual estimates of breeding values
on traits which were here-to-fore selected
on a family-breeding-value basis only. This
is the key for traits with a social behavior
component, such as many well-being and
fitness traits and traits that are sex limited
like egg laying. This improvement in accuracy is allowing better rates of genetic gain.
Even with the expanding basket of traits
breeders must select, rates of genetic gain
can continue to accelerate, and more accurate controls on inbreeding can now be concomitantly imposed in breeding programs.
The science of genetics is on the forefront
of delivering superior layers for the egg industry of the future. EI
Dr. Neil O’Sullivan obtained his baccalaureate and master’s degrees from University
College, Dublin, Ireland, in 1986 and 1988
respectively. He studied at VPI earning his
Ph.D. under Prof. Paul Siegel. He is currently
director of research and development for Hy-Line International with direct involvement in
the complex breeding program and complementary management and nutritional factors
contributing to attaining genetic potential.
He can be reached via email at nosullivan@
hyline.com.
