Morphological and phenotypic diversity of indigenous chicken populations in Algeria
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Abstract
Effective management, conservation, and improvement of animal genetic resources require a comprehensive understanding of their genetic diversity and geographic distribution. The present study aims to describe the diversity of Algerian local chicken populations as the first task of the multi-country Mediterranean project “PRIMA SCALA-MEDI.” The second task will aim to develop crossbreeding strategies between two genetically and phenotypically contrasting local chicken populations. From November 2020 to February 2022, 25 linear body measurements and qualitative traits were recorded in 177 adult chickens across 10 locations representing five Algerian agro-ecological zones. Morphological and phenotypic characterization of Algerian local hens revealed substantial variability across studied populations. Key body measurements showed considerable variation, with body length averaging 44.20 ± 9.67 cm and wing length 37.76 ± 6.32 cm, reflecting high morphological plasticity. Plumage was predominantly multicolored (60.5%), with smooth feathering (98.33%) and orange eye color (61.6%) being most common. Sex, breeding system, agro-ecological zone, bioclimatic conditions, altitude, and THI all significantly influenced both morphological and phenotypic traits. Multivariate factorial analyses, including Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Ascending Classification (HAC), and Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA), identified three distinct morphological clusters and four phenotypic clusters. The morphological clusters distinguished a scavenging female-dominated group with smaller body dimensions adapted to harsh arid and high-altitude conditions, a transitional mixed group with medium-sized traits linked to moderate mountain climates, and a confined male-dominated group displaying larger morphology associated with selective breeding practices. The four phenotypic clusters further reflected the combined influence of sex, breeding system, regional genetics, and bioclimatic conditions in driving phenotypic diversity across Algerian local hen populations. These findings highlight genetic-environment interactions shaping local chicken adaptations.
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