Zoometrical indices and cephalometry studies of Adult Helmeted Guinea fowls (Numida meleagris galleata Pallas)

Abstract

Zoometrical and cephalometric indices of four varieties of adult guinea fowls (Numida meleagris galeata Pallas) were investigated to ascertain varietal differences and/or similarities among them. One thousand, two hundred and seventy two (1,272) adult Guinea fowls comprising 425 pearl, 313 lavender, 271 black and 263 white varieties randomly selected from smallholders in Sokoto, Bodinga, Goronyo, Balle, Shagari and Illela villages were used for this study. Data on five zoometrical indices (body, shank, skull, helmet and wattle) and cephalomtric indices were taken on each of the varieties. The results showed low and similar (p>0.05) values in all the indices investigated. This indicates that the four varieties are not distinct varieties but only differ in plumage colour and that the head shape of the four varieties is dolichocephalic.