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Discuss the role of scanning in sheep production - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 3 - 2012
Question 3
Discuss the role of scanning in sheep production. (i) Explain the term terminal sire as it applies in sheep breeding. (ii) Suggest two breeds that could be used as... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss the role of scanning in sheep production - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 3 - 2012
Step 1
Discuss the role of scanning in sheep production.
Answer
Scanning plays a crucial role in sheep production as it helps farmers determine whether ewes are pregnant or barren. It is essential for managing breeding programs effectively. By identifying pregnant ewes, farmers can take necessary actions to ensure proper nutrition and care, leading to improved lambing rates. Scanning also enables the identification of single or multiple lambs, which informs feeding strategies, culling practices, and overall flock management.
Step 2
(i) Explain the term terminal sire as it applies in sheep breeding.
Answer
A terminal sire is a ram specifically chosen to produce lambs that are intended for slaughter rather than breeding. The focus is on producing high-quality lambs with desirable growth rates and carcass traits. Terminal sires contribute to improving the overall meat quality of the flock, ensuring that offspring have optimal traits for market satisfaction.
Step 4
(iii) Give a reason for each of your choices in part (ii).
Answer
For Suffolk: This breed is known for its good carcass quality and excellent conformation, along with a fast growth rate which contributes to efficient meat production.
For Texel: Texels offer good carcass quality, along with strong conformation traits that lead to better overall performance in meat yield. They are widely recognized for their ability to produce heavy lambs.
Step 5
Compare flushing with steaming-up as feeding strategies in sheep production.
Answer
Flushing involves placing ewes in a low plane of nutrition before breeding to stimulate ovulation and increase the number of embryos during mating. It aims to improve conception rates and support better lambing outcomes.
Steaming-up, on the other hand, increases the concentrate feed offered to ewes during the last few weeks of pregnancy. This strategy enhances fetal growth and improves colostrum production, which is vital for the health of newborn lambs. Both practices are fundamental in optimizing sheep production, but they target different stages in the breeding cycle.