Science is just part of breeding
In my writings and discussions, I often touch on genetics as applied to game fowl breeding. However, I am not trying to teach genetics. I am not qualified to discuss real genetics. I am speaking about practical breeding. However, understanding in genetics is necessary to make practical breeding goals easier and closer, thus in the process of articulating practical breeding, I have to touch on a little genetics.
If there is not enough practical knowledge on breeding based on general understanding of the game fowl, science is no use. Conversely, without ample scientific knowledge, breeding will be a trial and error affair, a hit and miss undertaking.
A balance between practical knowledge in game fowl raising and scientific foundation is therefore necessary. Study both aspects.
Genetics as applied to game fowl breeding is simply the study of how traits relevant to the creating good game fowl are inherited. In game fowl breeding you don’t have to be an expert in genetics. No formal study on the science is even necessary. A little knowledge will suffice. A little knowledge in genetics and lots of common sense are enough to set oneself as a game fowl breeder. Yes breeder, in the true sense of the word. And, not just propagator, replicator or ‘mater,’ much less just a gambler.
A little knowledge in genetics is necessary for one to engage in real breeding, because breeding is governed by the science of genetics. However, in game fowl breeding lots of common chicken sense is also necessary due to the absence of comprehensive and scientific studies on vital aspects of what make a game fowl a good game fowl.
Diligent game fowl breeders might be able to take advantage of the studies on chicken genetics in general such as those concerning color, comb type, and other simple hereditary traits. But the genetics that govern fighting ability is not scientifically defined yet. There are no published studies yet on these matters. Certainly, fighting ability is not simple. It must be dictated by several genes or combinations. Traits for fighting ability are quantitative in nature.
A little knowledge in genetics is just part of practical breeding. A game fowl breeder also needs lots of chicken sense and experience.
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