Poultry Combs: Uncovering Their Biological Function

In summary, there is a discussion about the biological function of combs on chickens and turkeys, with the observation that they may have originally served to cool blood. It is noted that other birds do not have combs. The conversation also touches on the inheritance of different comb shapes in chickens and the possibility of their taste.
  • #1
jimmy p
Gold Member
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What's the deal with them?? what biological function do combs on chickens (and turkeys) have? They just look like ugly pieces of red flesh. I mean, other birds don't have them, why do poultry?
 
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  • #2
Why does a peacock have a long tail, to impress the ladies ofcourse
It could be that the original function was to cool blood or something, but that is just a wild guess.
 
  • #3
What is interesting about the comb shape of chickens is their mode of inheritance. New comb shape phenotypes result from the interactin between the alleles of 2 gene loci.

When a true-breeding rose-combed bird is crossed with a true breeding pea-combed bird, the result is 100% Walnut-combed in the F1 generation. Then when F1's are crossed a 9:3:3:1 ratio of walnut:rose:pea:single occurs in the F2.

Nautica
 
  • #4
those crazy chickens with their crazy bits of random flesh, i can't seem to find ANYTHING about them and its irritating. wonder what it tastes like?
 
  • #5
Originally posted by jimmy p
those crazy chickens with their crazy bits of random flesh, i can't seem to find ANYTHING about them and its irritating. wonder what it tastes like?

...tastes like chicken...



Njorl
 

1. What is the purpose of a poultry comb?

The poultry comb is a fleshy, red appendage found on the head of chickens, turkeys, and other domesticated birds. Its primary function is to regulate body temperature by dissipating excess heat through its blood vessels. It also serves as a secondary sexual characteristic, with larger combs indicating higher levels of reproductive hormones and thus, fertility.

2. Do all poultry have combs?

No, not all poultry have combs. While combs are most commonly associated with chickens, they can also be found on other birds such as turkeys, guinea fowl, and pheasants. Some breeds of chickens, such as Silkies and Polish chickens, may have smaller or absent combs.

3. Are there different types of poultry combs?

Yes, there are several different types of poultry combs. The most common are the single comb, rose comb, pea comb, and walnut comb. These differ in size, shape, and number of ridges or points. There are also variations within these types, such as the V-shaped comb and the cushion comb.

4. Can the size and color of a poultry comb indicate the health of the bird?

Yes, the size and color of a poultry comb can be indicators of the bird's health. A large, bright red comb is a sign of good health and high fertility. A pale or shriveled comb can indicate illness or dehydration. Additionally, the color of the comb can change during times of stress or illness, making it a useful tool for monitoring the health of poultry.

5. Are there any other functions of poultry combs?

Aside from regulating body temperature and indicating fertility and health, poultry combs also play a role in communication and social hierarchy within a flock. Chickens use their combs to show dominance and submission, and combs can also be used for visual signaling during courtship and mating. In some breeds, combs are also used for pecking and grooming feathers.

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