Knowra Chicken breeds Chicken breeds Chicken breeds are distinct domestic chicken populations maintained for characteristic appearance, behavior, or productive traits. They are shaped by selective breeding and recognized through shared standards or inherited characteristics.
Gallus gallus domesticus : The domesticated form of the red junglefowl, raised worldwide for eggs, meat, and companionship. Every chicken breed belongs to this domesticated species.
Leghorn : A chicken breed originating in Italy, especially known for laying white eggs. It exemplifies specialization for high egg production.
Poultry farming : The raising of domesticated birds for food, eggs, feathers, or other products. Commercial poultry production depends on birds selected for specific outputs.
Hybrid chicken : A chicken produced by crossing genetically distinct parental lines or breeds. Commercial hybrids can outperform established breeds while not breeding true.
Selective breeding : The deliberate reproduction of organisms chosen for desired inherited traits. Breeders amplify differences in appearance, behavior, and production.
Rhode Island Red : An American chicken breed developed as a dual-purpose bird for eggs and meat. Its productive versatility illustrates a common breeding goal.
Egg production : The biological and agricultural production of eggs by laying birds. Layer breeds and strains are selected for sustained egg yield.
Chicken strain : A selected population within a breed or breeding program, often defined by particular performance traits. A strain may be more narrowly selected than a recognized breed.
Artificial selection : Evolutionary change caused by humans choosing which organisms reproduce. Repeated selection across generations produces breed characteristics.
Silkie : An ornamental chicken breed known for fluffy, silk-like feathers and dark skin. Its distinctive appearance shows how breeds can be maintained for ornamental traits.
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