Indigenous chickens hold a special place in South Africa’s agricultural landscape, particularly in rural communities where they serve not just as a source of protein but also as a means to alleviate poverty. Recent research led by Reneilwe Rose Mogano from the Department of Animal Science at Tshwane University of Technology sheds light on the risk status and adaptability of these village-based chickens in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. With climate change and the rising popularity of high-performing exotic breeds posing a real threat, understanding the genetic resilience of these local birds is more important than ever.
Mogano’s team examined 244 village chickens from rural areas, using advanced genotyping techniques to map out their genetic diversity and environmental suitability. The findings reveal a concerning trend: the effective population size of these indigenous chickens is dwindling, with numbers ranging from 18 to 53 in village flocks. This decline is alarming when you consider the role these birds play in local economies and food security.
In her words, “Our research highlights not just the genetic makeup of these chickens but also their adaptability to local conditions. This resilience is crucial for their survival in the face of environmental changes.” The study identified significant outlier SNPs—386 of them, to be precise—that are linked to various environmental factors, providing insights into how these chickens might fare as conditions shift.
The implications of this research extend beyond mere academic interest. By mapping the environmental suitability of these indigenous chickens, Mogano and her team have provided valuable data that can inform conservation strategies and breeding programs. For instance, chickens from specific villages in Limpopo showed localized suitability, while those from KwaZulu-Natal had a broader range of habitats they could thrive in. This knowledge could guide farmers and policymakers in making informed decisions about which breeds to conserve and promote, ensuring that these local treasures are not lost to the pressures of modern agriculture.
As the agriculture sector grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and market demands, studies like this one serve as a beacon of hope. They remind us that local genetic resources have unique traits that can be harnessed for sustainable farming practices. By prioritizing the conservation of indigenous chickens, farmers can tap into their adaptability, potentially leading to more resilient agricultural systems.
This research, published in ‘Frontiers in Genetics,’ underscores the importance of safeguarding indigenous livestock as a strategy for both conservation and economic growth. As Mogano aptly puts it, “Understanding our local breeds is not just about preserving the past; it’s about securing our agricultural future.”