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Name two lowland sheep breeds and describe their bodily characteristics - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question (b) - 2017
Question (b)
Name two lowland sheep breeds and describe their bodily characteristics. Explain fully why crossbred ewes are frequently used in a lowland sheep enterprise.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Name two lowland sheep breeds and describe their bodily characteristics - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question (b) - 2017
Step 1
Name two lowland sheep breeds and describe their bodily characteristics.
Answer
Two lowland sheep breeds are:
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Galway: This breed is recognized for its large size, characterized by either white wool or wool on the forehead. They exhibit excellent conformation, which indicates a favorable body structure, allowing for better health and productivity.
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Suffolk: The Suffolk breed is known for its excellent physical characteristics. They can have either short wool or dark wool, and typically have black legs or are polled (hornless). This breed is valued for its meat quality and conformation, making it a preferred choice among sheep farmers.
Step 2
Explain fully why crossbred ewes are frequently used in a lowland sheep enterprise.
Answer
Crossbred ewes are frequently used in lowland sheep enterprises due to several key advantages:
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Hybrid Vigor: Crossbreeding often results in hybrid vigor, or heterosis, which enhances productivity and overall health in offspring.
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Good Mothering Ability: Crossbred ewes typically show improved maternal qualities, leading to better care and nourishment for lambs.
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Higher Carcase Quality: These ewes tend to produce lambs with superior carcase quality. This means the meat is often of better quality, which is crucial for the market.
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Prolificacy: Crossbred ewes often demonstrate higher fertility rates, or prolificacy, leading to more lambs being born and hence greater productivity for the enterprise.
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Good Milk Production: The milk production of crossbred ewes is generally higher, ensuring that the lambs receive adequate nutrition for their growth.