Phenotypical characterization of the creole fighting rooster in the Pillaro Canton, Tungurahua, Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: Morphological characterization constitutes a fundamental tool to determine the phenotypic diversity of animal genetic resources, favoring their conservation and appropriate use. Objective: The objective of this work was to characterize the phenotype of the Creole fighting rooster in the Píllaro canton, province of Tungurahua, to contribute to the conservation, sustainable management and preservation of its role in local cultural traditions. Method: 125 adult birds were sampled, belonging to 15 Creole fighting rooster farms. Measurements were made of the phaneroptic variables: plumage color, leg color, wing color, beak color and crest type, categorizing these characteristics according to their frequency. Zoometric characterization included tarsus length and neck length. Total frequencies were determined using the SPSS program v26. Results: A notable diversity was evident in the variables studied, highlighting the color of the plumage, legs, wings, and beak, as well as the type of crest, a reflection of the phenotypic variability of the breed, influenced by artificial selection and adaptation to the environment. local. The traits described associate this breed with Spanish lines such as the bankivoid rooster, combined with Old English Game for its coloration in the beak and legs and oriental roosters such as the Asil, Shamo and Malayo for the type of crest. Conclusion: The phaneroptic characterization of the Creole fighting rooster of the Píllaro canton of Ecuador offers relevant information for their conservation and sustainable management, as well as for the preservation of their role in local cultural traditions.