I guess I should rephrase the question, so we are all on the same page . . .
Is there any interest in selectively breeding for variations in muscovy ducks (suck as has been done with mallards) considering they are selectively bred with the health of the animal being of number one importance?
I have only had one Muscovy and never bred her so here is my *disclaimer*. I freely admit I know little about Muscovies or showing or standards and only have my opinion. And on to my observations/questions.
Muscovy is technically a species,
Cairina moschata as I understand the use of the name/term "Muscovy". And they while they come in different colors they are only considered one breed as I understand. One set of standards for the whole species. How do they judge Muscovies in shows when considering different colors, just have black ones go against other black Muscovies, or Pied go against Pied then consider what is the "best" of the various best of colors?
The "regular" domestic duck that is not a Muscovy is technically a "Mallard type",
Anas platyrhynchos. We have tons of different breeds of the Mallard type such as the Runners, Swedish, Caygua, and many others all of which are distinct in looks, temperament, stance, egg laying and other traits from others of the same species. As I understand it there is not such a breed distinction in the Muscovies even though they come in many colors and perhaps other differences. It seems like perhaps some could be distinct enough to consider them a separate breed and not just a color variation of the same breed while they are the same species. Are you thinking of a new breed with more differences then the standard or just a new color type? i.e. white with black caruncles but little difference or white with the black caruncles and a longer neck or something. So are you looking at more differences that might push it farther from the standard Muscovy look or their standards or the same duck with a new color pattern? What sort of traits other then color are you thinking of if you are?
When showing Muscovies do they have different categories other then perhaps color types? I see no problem taking a line and breeding it to appear differently from other Muscovy lines personally as long as the birds are stable, healthy, and otherwise right as a stable type. One thing is showing it might be difficult to get approved'allowed as you intend the line if it is too different. Having a white Muscovy with black caruncles should not ruin the species only make a new color line. And perhaps if it is different enough then perhaps its time for actual "breeds". I understand some not liking something new show up in the Muscovy line when its not segmented into breeds when they want to preserve what they see as perfect now. That however should be their responsiblity as it is with others and dog breeds, horse breeds, etc. Other then having some not like the particular look or getting it accepted in shows if that is a problem I don't see the issue as long as its up front about what you are trying to produce. Please do be careful if trying to breed more differences then just the color. Things like a longer neck could cause health concerns and the health and happiness of the birds should be foremost. Breeding differences is fine as long as the birds are not the ones paying for genetic problems.
I did look up a little on the SOP of Muscovy and one thing I did see is this,
Muscovy Standards. On the page it mentions Black in the bean of White drakes as a fault. This could be a problem under the standard if you are planning a white Muscovy with the black caruncles. My guess is that the black caruncles could be a genetic issue with an all white bean. This could be why you haven't seen the sort of Muscovy your looking for if its only a color thing your talking about. People who show are not going to want to be breeding a bird who is going to be penalized or even disqualified right from the start.
The last question I have is what exactly are you looking for with this thread? Tips? Tricks/advice on breeding a type? I saw you mentioned others interest in this breeding. Are you looking for others to join you in trying to breed a white Muscovy with the black caruncles? Or are you looking for people who have Muscovies that might have the sort of traits your looking for to send you eggs? Etc.
