Aspects of the black Maltese chicken breed

Abstract

The Black Maltese chicken (‘Gallus gallus domesticus’) is a rare and historically significant Mediterranean poultry breed, deeply rooted in Malta’s agricultural heritage. This research investigate the breed’s origin, morphological traits, genetic diversity, conservation status, and relevance in modern sustainable farming systems. With its unique genetic lineage, strong environmental adaptability, and socio-cultural value, the Black Maltese chicken represents a vital genetic resource that faces endangerment due to historical underuse and the rise of commercial hybrid poultry. The primary objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive examination of the Black Maltese chicken, from its historical development and selective breeding to tiscurrent population dynamics and productive traits. A multidisciplinary theoretical approach is employed, drawing on animal science, genetics, conservation biology and agroecology. Methodologically, the study relies on a critical review of both historical documents and scientific literature, including phenotype and genotype analyses from Aquilina (2012), Ceccobelli et al. (2013), and Attard et al. (2014). Genetic data such as microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA sequences are used to assess the breed’s genetic variability and phylogenetic relationships with other Mediterranean landrace chickens. Additional data sources include national poultry surveys, archival reports, and breed standards. Key findings reveal that the Black Maltese chicken exhibits a high degree of genetic variability, despite its critically low population size, and belongs largely to haplogroup E, common in Europe, the Middle East, and India. Evidence of introgression from other Mediterranean breeds such as the Minorca, Andalusian, and even Asian chickens (haplogroup A) indicates a complex but distinct evolutionary history. Phenotypically, the breed maintains defining traits including black iridescent plumage, medium single comb, shite ear lobes, and models egg-laying capacity (~150-180 eggs annually). Despite some trait drift in modern flocks, the breed retains unique physical and productive characteristics valuable for organic and free-range systems. Conservation challenges include inbreeding, the absence of a national herd book, and limited market presence. The study concludes that the Black Maltese chicken possesses substantial potential for sustainable agriculture in Malta, particularly within regenerative and organic farming systems. It offers not only a pathway toward biodiversity conservation bit also an opportunity for economic diversification through niche poultry markets. Future conservation strategies must include structured breeding programs, establishment of a national registry, government incentives, and public education to ensure the survival and revitalisation of this culturally and genetically important breed.