Method of Sexing in Poultry Based on Sex-Linked Characters
In poultry, the method of sexing chicks on the basis of sex-linked characters (feather colour and feather growth rate) is known as:
- Vent method
- Autosexing — Correct Answer
- Proctoscope method
- Feather sexing
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Autosexing
Autosexing is the method of determining sex of chicks at hatch using sex-linked characters such as:
- Colour of plumage (e.g., gold/silver plumage linked to Z chromosome)
- Feather growth rate (rapid vs slow feathering gene on Z chromosome)
Since females are ZW (hemizygous for Z-linked traits), their phenotype directly reveals the genotype, allowing sex identification at hatch without manual examination.
Methods of Sexing in Poultry
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Autosexing | Based on sex-linked feather colour/growth traits |
| Vent method (Cloacal sexing) | Manual examination of cloaca by expert; most common commercial method |
| Proctoscope method | Optical instrument to examine internal reproductive organs |
📚 About this Topic — Animal Genetics & Breeding
This multiple choice question is from Animal Genetics & Breeding, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Genetics & Breeding to strengthen your preparation.
