Ayam Cemani Chicken: The Black Chicken of Indonesia

The Ayam Cemani Chicken origin of its name comes from the word ‘Ayam’ means ‘chicken’ in Indonesia and ‘Cemani’ translates as ‘completely black’ in Javanese. It arose in Indonesia, for centuries this species came to recognize as a spiritual creature. On the island of Java, these birds were kept by the elites in rituals but never eaten. His color was a supernatural sign.

They were introduced to Europe in 1998 by a Dutch breeder, where they drew considerable interest among poultry enthusiasts because of their appearance and genetic makeup. Ayam Cemani chicken is one of the most expensive chickens in the world. Ayam Cemani gets its black color from a generic feature known as ‘fibromelanosis’, which promotes the proliferation of black pigment cells.

Ayam Cemani Chicken

The gene that causes fibromelanosis is a mutation that existed in Asia more than 800 years ago. The mutation was made way for another variety of chicken, such as the Black Swedish hen, or Svart Hona, which has the same fibromelanistic traits as the Ayam Cemani, and therefore as black as the Indonesian breed.

Reserves are currently maintained in the Netherlands, Germany, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. It is believed that the AYAM CEMANI breed could be introduced in Europe earlier by Dutch sailors who had numerous contacts in both Africa and Asia. You Can Also Like To Read Penedesenca Chicken.

Characteristics of Ayam Cemani Chicken

Ayam Cemani chicken is black. That is not limited to your feathers. The color is all around and even inside. Everything about this chicken is black – skin, beak, feather, tongue, legs, toenails, even its flesh, bones, and organs. Even the bone marrow is black. His blood, although not black, is very dark in color. The hen lays cream eggs – the only part of Ayam Cemani that is not black.

However, being a very easy target, they do not sleep in chicken coops and therefore the only way they hatch eggs is by incubating them. The Ayam Cemani chicken is so spectacular and exotic that it is known as the “Lamborghini of the poultry.” Its atypical beauty is due to a genetic mutation that produces ten times more melanin than that found in a normal chicken. In the sunlight, the black is iridescent with green and purple tones.

The effect is fascinating. You can understand why native Indonesians attribute mystical powers to these birds. Their brood is very expensive to maintain for Chinese poultry companies. The roosters weigh 2.5 to 3.5 kg and hens weigh 2.5 to 3 kg. The hens lay cream-colored eggs with a slight pink tint even we could say that even colored even white, rarely hatch their own brood.

The eggs weigh an average of 60 g. It is a very laying breed of eggs, we could even say that it is the Leghorn of Indonesia by its great egg laying about 280 eggs per year.

Food

Ayam Cemani Chicken are fed and cared for naturally, with starter feed composed of. Soybean meal extracted from toasted and demystified soybeans (produced from genetically modified soybeans). Maize (genetically modified maize). Thermally treated cereals (produced from genetically modified maize). Flours and solubles of corn flakes (produced from genetically modified maize). Cane molasses (sugar). Soybean oil (produced from genetically modified soya beans).

Usage

However, more and more Chinese families are encouraged to consume it driven by the belief that it increases female fertility and restores the vitality of the woman who has just been a mother. Their meat is thought to be higher in iron. Therefore, beneficial to women before and after delivery. Exquisite in his flesh tasty, tender and by its black color resembling the lean. We could say that it is gourmet.

Special Feature

In Asia, Ayam Cemani chickens are very well regarded because it is believed that their flesh has mystical powers. Birds are sometimes sacrificed during childbirth believing that fortune will come to the working mother. The chicken is also sacrificed on other special occasions, as it is believed to bring luck.

Some people in Asia believe that eating this chicken will relieve their conscience, and their singing brings prosperity. The breed was developed in Indonesia but because of concerns about bird flu, the US Department of Agriculture maintains a ban on direct imports of birds into US territory. It is for this reason that these chickens are very difficult to get, something that has as consequence its high cost.

FAQ

How much is a Ayam Cemani chicken?

A fully feathered Ayam Cemani chicken can cost around $85. If you’re looking for something less expensive, you can buy 1 egg for $10 or 6 eggs for $60. An unsexed chick will cost around $48.

Do Ayam Cemani have black meat?

Yes, Ayam Cemani do have black meat. This is because the breed of chicken is unique in that its feathers, skin, muscles, and bones are all black. The breed originates from Indonesia and has been bred for centuries for its unique features.

Why is Ayam Cemani so expensive?

Ayam Cemani is an extremely rare breed of chicken, originating from Indonesia. This breed is renowned for its black feathers and black skin, which gives it a unique and striking appearance. The rarity of this breed is the main reason why it is so expensive, as there are not many available for sale.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a new pet that is both exotic and beautiful, the Ayam Cemani may be perfect. This rare Indonesian breed has an unusual genetic mutation that gives them their distinctive appearance. The gene causes hyperpigmentation in all parts of the chicken’s body including feathers, beaks, and internal organs. These unique chickens are also very intelligent which makes them good pets to have around the house! Learn more about this fascinating bird by reading our guide below or contacting us with any questions you might have!

As a References: Wikipedia

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top