Phaneroptic characteristics and morphometrics of Tukong indigenous chicken in West Kalimantan, Indonesia

Summary

Tukong is one of the indigenous chicken breed from Indonesia, which exhibits an abnormality in their tail development, known as rumpless chicken. Despite its potential role for the local community, information regarding this unique breed’s phenotypic and genetic characteristics is scarce. The present study aimed to characterise 205 (53 roosters and 152 hens) Tukong indigenous chickens (>8 months old) based on 7 phaneroptic characteristics and 10 morphometrics traits. The results showed that the roosters predominant plumage colour of the neck, body, and back were red, black, and red, respectively, while those for the hens were all black. Most roosters and hens had yellow beak, red comb, pea comb, red earlobe, orange eye, yellow shank, and white skin. Variations were also found in morphometrics traits. Diversity phaneroptic characteristics and morphometrics observed in Tukong chicken for evaluations to identify resources for effective breed improvement and conservation strategies of indigenous chickens in Indonesia.