GENETIC CHARACTERIZATION OF MALLARD DUCKS (ANAS PLATYRHYNCHOS) AND MUSCOVY (CAIRINA MOSCHATA) USING SDS-PAGE

Abstract

Duck has been essential producer of meat and eggs to supplement local chicken products. In Nigeria, Mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos) and Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) are the most available species being raised. Few genetic studies have been reported on both poultry despite their contributions to household income. In this study, genetic characterization of both species of A. platyrhynchos and C. moschata using blood serum protein through Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate - Polyacylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), were assessed. Blood samples were drawn from the wing vein of each species of the duck and SDS-PAGE was used for its analysis. PAlaeontological STatistics (PAST) software was used to generate dendrograms analysis. The results revealed 0.4% genetic distance between the two species, showing their very close relationship. Further molecular studies using DNA will reveal more genetic relationship of both species.