Analysis of Variability in Conformation Traits and the Effectiveness of Breeding Work in Rabbits of the Termond White and Popielno White Breeds

The aim of the study was to assess and analyze conformation characteristics and the effectiveness of breeding work in TB and PB rabbits over 10 years. The study determined the variability of conformation traits in two animal herds, as well as their heritability. Additionally, phenotypic trends in conformation traits were estimated. The analysis of variance of conformation traits showed that the year of license had a statistically highly significant impact on: body weight (expressed in grams and points), body structure, breed type, coat color and specific breed characteristics. Gender and race had a statistically significant impact on body weight (g) and coat color. Moreover, race also showed a statistically significant effect on body weight in the scoring. In turn, the farm had a statistically significant impact on: body weight (g), body structure, breed type, coat color and specific breed characteristics. The analysis of conformation characteristics showed that 97.9% of rabbits received positive marks, and 2.1% were disqualified. Only individuals intended for herd improvement were subjected to evaluation. Summarizing the results of the conformation traits analysis, it can be concluded that the rabbits kept on the examined farms underwent proper selection. The animals had very good conformation features. Based on our own research, it was found that rabbit breeding in both of the studied farms was conducted correctly, and the obtained results are satisfactory, both in terms of reproductive and conformatin traits.