The science of genetics has undergone a period of very rapid and significant development in recent years, and the area of poultry genetics has been no exception. This book provides a balanced and up-to-date account of all the major areas of this subject from Mendelian to modern molecular genetics. The book begins by tracing the evolution of Gallus domesticus from its avian ancestors. Subsequent chapters cover important aspects of poultry genetics, including cytogenetics, transmission genetics, gene mapping, sex linkage, lethal genes, genetics of feathering and plumage, and quantitative genetics. In each chapter, a concise explanation of the genetic principles is followed by a full discussion illustrated by key examples. In the latter part of the book, recent advances in gene cloning and sequencing are examined. The impact of these exciting new developments on our understanding of gene structure and organisation, immunogenetics and the evolution of proteins is assessed. Finally, the uses of transgenic techniques and their implications are discussed. This book provides a clear and useful survey of the genetics and evolution of the domestic fowl, which will be of interest to postgraduate students and researchers in the fields of genetics, agriculture and veterinary medicine, as well as to poultry breeders (both commercial and non-commercial).

Veteran journalist Andrew Lawler delivers a “fascinating and delightful…globetrotting tour” (Wall Street Journal) with the animal that has been most crucial to the spread of civilization—the chicken. In a masterful combination of historical sleuthing and journalistic adventure, veteran reporter Andrew Lawler “opens a window on civilization, evolution, capitalism, and ethics” (New York) with a fascinating account of the most successful of all cross-species relationships—the partnership between human and chicken. This “splendid book full of obsessive travel and research in history” (Kirkus Reviews) explores how people through the ages embraced the chicken as a messenger of the gods, an all-purpose medicine, an emblem of resurrection, a powerful sex symbol, a gambling aid, a handy research tool, an inspiration for bravery, the epitome of evil, and, of course, the star of the world’s most famous joke. Queen Victoria was obsessed with the chicken. Socrates’s last words embraced it. Charles Darwin and Louis Pasteur used it for scientific breakthroughs. Religious leaders of all stripes have praised it. Now neuroscientists are uncovering signs of a deep intelligence that offers insights into human behavior. Trekking from the jungles of southeast Asia through the Middle East and beyond, Lawler discovers the secrets behind the fowl’s transformation from a shy, wild bird into an animal of astonishing versatility, capable of serving our species’ changing needs more than the horse, cow, or dog. The natural history of the chicken, and its role in entertainment, food history, and food politics, as well as the debate raging over animal welfare, comes to light in this “witty, conversational” (Booklist) volume.

Genetic studies aimed at understanding the origin of species are dominating major scientific journals. In the past decade, genetic tools that were previously available only in model systems have become accessible to investigators working on nearly all species. Concurrent with these technical advances has been an increase in understanding of both the importance of considering the ecological context of speciation and testing hypotheses about causes for species formation. Many recent studies suggest a prominent role of sexual selection in species formation. These advances have produced a need for a synthesis of what we now understand about speciation, and perhaps more importantly, where we should go from here. In this volume, several leading investigators and rising stars have contributed reviews and/or novel primary research findings aimed at understanding the ultimate mystery on which Darwin named his most famous and influential book. Fundamental to the origin of species is the evolution of mate choice systems. This collection of papers discusses burgeoning genetic, evolutionary, and ecological approaches to understanding the origins of mating discrimination and causes of premating reproductive isolation both within and between species. The individual contributions span a wide spectrum of disciplines, taxa, and ideas (some controversial). This synthesis brings together several of the most recent ideas with supporting empirical data. This book will be of particular interest to both undergraduate and postgraduate researchers and students and researchers in the field of evolutionary biology, genetics and animal behaviour.

This comprehensive research book represents the first complete integration of current knowledge in this area. It addresses issues associated with poultry breeding particularly by examining quantitative and molecular genetics and the uses of transgenic technology. A special section covers the important area of disease resistance and transmission.

Poultry biology; Qualitative genetics; New directions in poultry genetics; Quantitative genetics and selection; Applied breeding and selection.

This has been the indispensable companion of chicken breeders since its introduction in 1949. Chapters include the genetics of plumage, egg production, body size, disease resistance, and much more. (Animals/Pets)