Effect of the “Naked neck” gene (Na) on the growth of indigenous chicken fed with suboptimal feed rations in Cameroon

The effect of the naked neck gene (Na) was assessed on growth parameters of the native chicken fed with two suboptimal rations (R1 and R2), and one optimal ration (R3) from 6 to 16 weeks of age. A total of 270 hens of 3 genetic types (homozygous (NaNa) naked neck, heterozygous (Nana) and normal type (nana) chicken) for three different feed rations including two sub-optimal rations (R1, R2) and one optimal ration (R3). Hence, 30 pullets per experimental unit for each genetic type receiving the same ration were used. The animals were subjected to the same experimental conditions except for the tested factor. The starter ration was served during the first six weeks then relayed by the experimental rations. A two-way ANOVA was used to test the main effects and interactions whereas the animal model was used for the estimates of the genotype and feed ration on the growth and related traits. Irrespective of the genotype, the highest growth parameter (p