Breeding Ayam Cemani chickens requires careful attention due to their unique genetic traits and rarity. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on available information:
1. Understanding Fibromelanosis:
- Genetic Background: Ayam Cemani chickens are known for their condition called fibromelanosis, which leads to hyperpigmentation. This dominant gene causes the bird to be entirely black, including feathers, skin, muscles, and internal organs. Understanding this genetic trait is crucial for breeding.
2. Selection of Breeding Stock:
- Purebred Lines: Obtain Ayam Cemani from reputable breeders who can provide proof of purity. Breeders should be members of organizations like the Ayam Cemani Breeders Association, which ensures adherence to the proposed Standard of Perfection.
- Health and Vigor: Choose birds that are healthy, vigorous, and meet the breed’s standards for appearance and temperament.
3. Breeding Considerations:
- Mating Pairs: Typically, one rooster can be bred with up to 10 hens for optimal fertility. Ensure that both rooster and hens are in good health and not related closely to avoid inbreeding depression.
- Selective Breeding: Focus on breeding for full expression of the fibro gene to maintain the pure black color. This involves culling birds with any color leakage or physical imperfections that do not meet the breed standard.
4. Egg Incubation:
- Artificial Incubation: Ayam Cemani hens are poor setters, so artificial incubation is often necessary.
- Egg Collection: Collect fresh eggs for incubation. Store them at room temperature with the pointed end down if not immediately incubating.
- Incubation: Use an incubator set to around 99-100°F with a humidity of 40-50% for the first 18 days, then increase humidity to about 65-75% for the final days. Turn eggs at least three times a day.
5. Hatching and Chick Care:
- Candling: Check eggs around day 7 and 14 to see if they are developing properly by candling.
- Hatching: After 21 days, chicks should begin to hatch. Once hatched, keep the environment warm (around 95°F initially, decreasing by 5 degrees each week).
- Feeding: Start with a high-quality chick starter feed. Some recommend scrambled eggs for the first few days due to their nutritional benefits, mimicking the yolk they would have eaten from the egg.
6. Rearing and Growth:
- Housing: Provide a clean, safe environment. They need space to grow but also protection from predators; about 4 square feet per bird is recommended.
- Nutrition: Transition from chick starter to grower feed after a few weeks, then to layer or maintenance feed depending on whether you aim for egg production or just growth.
7. Breeding Community Involvement:
- Join Associations: Engage with the Ayam Cemani Breeders Association or similar groups for ongoing education, support, and to sell or exchange birds. This community can provide further guidance on maintaining the breed’s purity and health.
8. Continuous Evaluation:
- Monitor each generation for adherence to the breed standard, temperament, and overall health. Keep records of breeding pairs and outcomes to refine your breeding strategy over time.
Breeding Ayam Cemani is not just about producing more chickens; it’s about preserving a unique genetic lineage. Patience, dedication, and education are key to success in this endeavor.
