Evidence of Genetic Variability for Lysine Utilization

EVIDENCE that efficiency of feed utilization is inherited was reported by Hess et al. (1941). McCartney and Jull (1948) observed differences in feed utilization to 10 weeks of age between two different strains in New Hampshire chickens. Thornton and Whittet (1960) presented evidence that commercial strains of layers had a slightly different protein requirement for maximum egg production. Moreng et al. (1964) reported variations in ability among four commercial strains as measured by their response to three different levels of dietary protein. Biely and March (1961) concluded that birds of different genetic background may differ in their amino acid requirement for maximum egg production. Hess et al. (1960) successfully demonstrated growth rate differences for fast and slow growing lines of chickens on a methionine-deficient diet. Griminger and Fisher (1962) experimenting with chickens showed significant differences among dams in growth potential of their offspring on arginine and lysine-deficient diets. However, their…