THE DOMESTIC FOWL 37 



as follows: type, class, breed, and variety. We have three 

 different commercial types; namely, eggs, meat, and general 

 utility. 



The birds are classified according to their ability to 

 yield a commercial product, as designated by the class 

 name. This term is also used to describe their natural con- 

 formation, function, and growth. The term "class" is also 

 used to differentiate the breeds according to their place of 

 origin, as the American class, the English class, the Mediter- 

 ranean class, the Asiatic class, etc. Each of the groups con- 

 tains breeds which originated at the points designated. 



The term "breed" applies to those of one body shape 

 and form; for example, Leghorns, Plymouth Rocks, Rhode 

 Island Reds, etc. Each breed has its distinctive body 

 shape. Different characteristics are common to different 

 birds, and usually result in a tendency towards some general 

 commercial purpose. 



The term "variety" indicates a subdivision of the breed. 

 It is largely determined by the color of the plumage and by 

 variation in the characteristics of the comb. For example, 

 we have barred, white, and buff Plymouth Rocks, all three 

 of which have the same shape, hence belong to the same 

 breed. We have also the rose and single comb White Leg- 

 horn, both of which have the same shape and color, and differ 

 in comb characteristics. The determining factor in classi- 

 fying according to type is the natural ability of the birds 

 to yield a general type of product, as eggs or meat, or both. 

 The determining factor in classifying according to breed is 

 the body shape, and in classifying according to variety within 

 the breed is primarily the plumage. The determining factor 

 in classifying according to class is historical development in 

 regard to place of origin. 



