A frizzle refers to a plumage pattern in domesticated chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) characterized by feathers that curl outwards, rather than lying flat as in most chickens. The frizzle type is not a separate breed, but a variety within breeds. Though all breeds of chickens may be frizzled; it is most commonly seen in breeds such as the Cochin, Pekin, and Polish.[1] Chickens with this pattern are sometimes referred to as frizzles. The gene which causes the frizzles' peculiar feathering is an incomplete dominant trait.[1]
Research suggests that the frizzled phenotype comes from a mutation within the keratin gene KRT75. A deletion that removed part of exon 5 and intron 5 ameliorated the splice site. This caused a 69 base pair deletion of the KRT75 gene.[3]
Uses
As a result of its unusual look, frizzles are primarily used as exhibition birds, and are included in most English language poultry standards.
There is a pure breed of chicken with this feature, known as the Frizzle breed.[4]
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