Genetic parameters for bone ash and phosphorus utilization in an F2 cross of Japanese quail

The main objective of this study was to perform quantitative genetic analyses of tibia and foot ash traits, which might serve as proxy traits to improve phosphorus utilization (PU) in a breeding program. Additionally, data for ash concentration in tibia and foot were compared with data for total amount of ash. Heritabilities for bone ash traits and genetic and phenotypic correlations between bone ash traits and PU were estimated. A total of 887 F-2 birds, established from 2 Japanese quail lines divergently selected on social reinstatement behavior, were provided a P deficient diet. In a metabolic study, feed consumption was measured and total excreta collected for each bird separately. Afterwards, birds were euthanized, the bones obtained and incinerated. Bone ash data showed a heritability of 0.230 (amount of tibia ash) to 0.342 (amount of foot ash), which was higher than estimated for PU, P retention, calcium utilization (0.120-0.174), and performance traits (0.088-0.114). The strongest genetic and phenotypic correlations between PU and bone ash traits were detected for the amount of foot ash with 0.549 and 0.527, respectively. Genetic and phenotypic correlations were stronger between PU and ash amount than between PU and ash percentage, irrespective of bone. Therefore, ash amount was considered a better trait than ash percentage to reflect PU. Strong genetic and phenotypic correlations were detected between the amount of foot and tibia ash (0.887 and 0.901, respectively). Phenotypic and genetic correlations between ash amount and PU or calcium utilization were almost identical, irrespective of bone. Foot ash is as suitable as tibia ash, but easier to determine. Bone ash data, especially the amount of foot ash, seem to be suitable indirect selection criteria for P efficiency breeding.