CREEPER
Molecular genetic analysis of the short-legged trait and diversity in the German chicken breed Krüper
There are two different categories of bantam chickens, firstly the breeds that exhibit proportional dwarfism and secondly the so-called ‘creepers’, which are characterised by significantly shortened limbs compared to the rest of the body length.
As part of the project, the molecular basis of this trait in German Krüper chickens and possibly other breeds is now to be investigated in order to better understand this deviating skeletal development and to be able to better categorise it in terms of animal welfare. As the Krüper breed is highly endangered, the data from this study (in addition to already published SNP genotypes) will also be used to analyse diversity parameters and as a basis for breeding recommendations with the aim of preserving this unique genetic resource.
Funding: Association for the Promotion of Young Scientists in Purebred Poultry Research