Guwahati: Poultry animals—particularly chickens—are recognised globally for their valuable contributions to the food, ornamental, and game economies. The Kaunayen fowl of Manipur, renowned for its combat prowess and cultural significance, has become the subject of a groundbreaking genetic study. By analysing mitochondrial DNA (D-loop sequences), researchers have traced the breed’s lineage, uncovering unexpected genetic ties to Southeast Asian and East Asian chicken populations.
A Breed Apart
The ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources in Karnal, Haryana, a government nodal agency for registering livestock and poultry varieties, has documented and registered 20 native chicken breeds in India. Among the 20 registered chicken breeds, four—including the Kaunayen chicken from Manipur—originate from the Northeast region.
Recognised as the 17th breed by the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, the Kaunayen fowl is celebrated for its aggression, endurance, and its role in cockfighting—a tradition deeply rooted in Manipuri culture. While its unique physical traits had been noted, this is the first genetic study to explore its evolutionary origins.
Tracing Genetic Lineage
A team of researchers led by Robin Singh Mutum, Abhik Das, Sankar Kumar Ghosh, and Vidyarani Devi Wangkheimayum conducted the study, published in Poultry Science. Using DNA samples from 33 Kaunayen chickens across Manipur, they identified 19 haplotypes. Two major haplotypes—Hap_2 (48%) and Hap_9 (38%)—dominated, with Hap_2 linked to Northeast Indian breeds and Hap_9 to Southeast Asian populations. A rare haplotype, Hap_18, highlighted the breed’s genetic diversity.
Evolutionary Insights
Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Kaunayen chickens are most closely related to Southeast Asian breeds, particularly red jungle fowls, with additional genetic ties to East Asia and South Asia. Historical accounts suggest that Manipuri footballers introduced red jungle fowls from Myanmar, enriching the Kaunayen’s genetic pool.
Migration Patterns
Using MIGRATE-N software, the study revealed maternal genetic flows primarily from Southeast Asia to Manipur, with minimal reverse migration. This aligns with historical trade routes, underscoring Southeast Asia’s role in shaping the Kaunayen’s genetic makeup.
Economic and Cultural Impact
As of 2016, a male and female chick pair was recorded to cost around INR 500. A month-old cockerel was priced at around INR 1,000, while an 8-month-old cock trained to compete fetched between INR 2,000 and INR 3,000. Fully-fledged fighter cocks, depending on their quality, often yielded INR 10,000–20,000. Manipuri breeders frequently engage in trade with neighboring Myanmar, indicating the scale and significance of the Kaunayen fowl in local entertainment and the economy.
Conservation and Scientific Significance
By decoding the Kaunayen’s lineage, the research underscores its role as a living repository of genetic diversity with roots spanning Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Northeast India. These findings pave the way for targeted conservation strategies, ensuring the survival of this culturally and economically significant breed.
This study highlights the Kaunayen fowl’s genetic journey, reflecting centuries of human-animal interactions and offering new perspectives on poultry evolution across South and Southeast Asia.
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