species of bird, facing danger of extinction

BHOPAL: Population of popular poultry breed, Kadaknath, is declining fast, and the species of the bird, found in tribal district of Jhabua is facing danger of extinction and erosion in its genetic stock, says expert.

Jet-black feathered bird, famous for black colour meat because of large melanin content, kadaknath is in big demand because of its 'much-touted' aphrodisiac properties.

High demand, slow growth on natural feed and more than 50% mortality before maturity are major factors, which affect survival, growth of the breed, says Dr Ram Baran Singh Janoriya, in charge of kadaknath farm in Jhabua.

There are about 1,250 hens and 240 roosters on a farm where the species is reared for breeding purpose in Jhabua. Hataikheda of Bhopal and Izzatnagar in Uttar Pradesh are two more places where similar breeding farms have come up.

"Because of less fat percentage, it is good for persons with heart problems. It is considered good for improving blood cells and haemoglobin count," said Dr Janoriya.

K Sachdeva, director in charge, Central Avian Research Institute (CARI), says, "Kadaknath meat is nutritious and is considered better than broiler or desi cousin."

As kadaknath is facing threat of extinction, Dr Janoriya says by way of explanation, "An attempt was made for conservation and promotion of high-value Indian poultry race under the National Agriculture Innovation Project (NAIP)--integrated farming system for sustainable rural livelihood in rain-fed areas of Jhabua and Dhar."

Dr Muthukumar, a scientist with Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, told TOI over phone, "Many say the meat of the variety is aphrodisiac, but it is not scientifically proved. Research is going on."

Laboratory tests show kadaknth chicken contains certain hormones, blue pigment and amino acids required by human body, he added.

Some 15-16 scientific studies, on kadaknath, particularly to check melanin pigmentation of its meat and genetic background were carried out.