The Influence of Trait Preferences and Breeding Practices on Local Chicken Genetic Resource Conservation in Igunga District, Tanzania

A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the influence of farmers’ trait preferences and breeding practices on local chicken genetic resource conservation in Igunga District, Tabora Region Tanzania. The used proportionate random sampling obtain 384 respondents ten villages within two wards. Data were collected through a household survey, key informant interviews (n=5), focus group discussions (n=10). Descriptive statistics such as mean, percentage frequencies are present findings. Chi-square establishes association between variables. relative importance indices (RII) model determines level preferred traits. findings indicates that natural mating slaughter chickens with undesirable characteristics main methods statistically significant wards (p<0.05). Furthermore, show Kuchi is most ecotype due its large body weight size. Findings RII hen egg number RII=0.9 (first rank) followed by hatchability RII=0.87 (second mothering behavior =0.86 (third rank). cock size ranks first second rank = 0.86 disease resistance which third RII=0.85. Government officials affirm more resilient diseases than other breeds. traders contend market value depends or frame plumage color whereas farmers confirm breed traits focused economic motives. suggests characterization an important step prior setting strategies for breeding, utilization resources.