Beef animals are housed indoors during the winter months - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question (b) - 2009
Question (b)
Beef animals are housed indoors during the winter months.
(i) List three housing requirements for weanlings housed in their first winter.
(ii) Animals kept indoors... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Beef animals are housed indoors during the winter months - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question (b) - 2009
Step 1
List three housing requirements for weanlings housed in their first winter.
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Answer
Well-ventilated or draught-free environment to maintain comfort and prevent respiratory issues.
Adequate space allowance for movement and to reduce stress.
Proper bedding such as straw or slatted floors to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Step 2
Explain the term compensatory growth.
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Answer
Compensatory growth refers to the increased rate of growth an animal experiences when it is well-fed after a period of restricted feeding. This phenomenon allows the animal to catch up in weight or size once given adequate nutrition.
Step 3
State two conformation characteristics which are desirable in beef animals.
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Block-like shape in two dimensions, indicating good muscle mass and development.
Shoulder blades well-fleshed and wide hindquarters for optimal meat yield.
Step 4
Why are most beef animals slaughtered at 2 years?
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Most beef animals are slaughtered at 2 years because they have typically reached target weight or are beginning to put on fat instead of muscle, which can affect meat quality. Slaughtering at this age ensures a good balance between meat yield and fat content.
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