One-generation divergent selection on large and small yolk proportions in a White Leghorn line.

1. A striking change in egg consumption from shell eggs toward egg products is taking place. Consequently, internal egg quality traits must be seen in a different light, as they may affect the profitability of the egg processing industry.

Genetic study of embryonic mortality in White Leghorn lines selected for egg production traits.

The present study compares embryonic mortality between lines selected for different production traits, assesses the effects of inbreeding of the hen and embryo on embryonic mortality, and estimates genetic parameters of embryonic mortality. The experiment covered 10 generations of selection for increased egg number (EN), egg weight (EW), egg mass (EM) and a control line (C). The data included age at 1st egg, egg number and egg weight.

Single-step divergent selection for male comb shape in two White Leghorn lines.

1. Divergent selection for comb shape (SH, the way that the cockerel bears the comb) was performed in 2 White Leghorn lines in a study aimed at assessing possibilities for improving SH. 2.

Inbreeding and inbreeding depression on reproduction and production traits of White Leghorn lines selected for egg production traits.

1. The rate of inbreeding and its effect on reproduction and egg production traits were studied in White Leghorn lines selected for egg production traits. The experiment was carried out for 10 generations in a control line (C) and in lines selected for increased egg number (EN), egg weight (EW) and egg mass (EM).

Selection for egg shell strength in laying hens using shell membrane characteristics.

1. Divergent selection for attachment strength between the shell membrane and the calcium shell was performed in a White Leghorn strain. Multivariate analysis was used to estimate genetic parameters for shell membrane measurements and shell thickness.