Genetic and phenotypic parameters for oviposition pattern traits in three selection lines of laying hens

1. Oviposition pattern and egg production traits were recorded in 471 hens from three selection lines. The lines, named according to their selection criteria, were egg number (EN), egg mass (EM) and egg mass, food consumption (EMFC).

2. Mean oviposition intervals within sequences were 24.9, 26.0 and 25.3 h, respectively in the EN, EM and EMFC lines. Corresponding heritability estimates were 0.52, 0.55 and 0.42.

3. The mean oviposition interval within sequences showed a positive genetic correlation with mean oviposition time.

4. Egg weight decreased significantly as the serial number within sequences increased, but only for sequences containing less than 18 eggs.