INHERITANCE OF BODY WEIGHT AND GAIN IN RABBITS

摘要

In the present study New Zealand white rabbits born and raised in comparatively cooler months were found heavier than those born and raised in warmer ones. Rabbits born in smaller litter sizes were also heavier than those born in larger litter sizes.Sexual dimorphism was not significant. Maternal effect was more on 6-weeks weight and it existed on 16-week weight also. Post-weaning gain was more in comparatively cooler months than the warmer ones. Post-weaning gain showed more compensatory growth inrabbits born in larger litter sizes. Genetic and phenotypic correlation between weight at 6-weeks and 16 weeks was positive but correlation between 6-week weight and post-weaning gain was negative due to compensatory growth in rabbits of larger littes sizes.