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A table below indicates measured pre-weaning growth rates (g/day) of certain cattle crosses - NSC Agricultural Sciences - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 2
Question 4
A table below indicates measured pre-weaning growth rates (g/day) of certain cattle crosses. PARENTS OF CALVES FROM CROSSING PASTURE CONDITIONS ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A table below indicates measured pre-weaning growth rates (g/day) of certain cattle crosses - NSC Agricultural Sciences - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 2
Step 1
Step 2
4.1.2 Refer to the table above and select the parents that produced calves with the highest average daily gain from pastures in poor conditions.
Answer
The parents that produced calves with the highest average daily gain from pastures in poor conditions are the Hereford bulls (B) and Brahman cows (H), specifically from crossing number 2, which shows an average daily gain of 713 g/day.
Step 3
4.1.3 Give TWO reasons for better performance of these calves.
Answer
- The offspring have hybrid vigor or heterosis, which enhances growth and performance traits compared to their purebred parents.
- The Brahman breed is generally more resilient to adverse environmental conditions, effectively utilizing available resources for better growth.
Step 4
4.1.4 Draw a bar graph to indicate the performances of crossings 1, 2 and 9 on poor, average and good pasture conditions.
Answer
To create the bar graph, plot three bars for each crossing (1, 2, and 9) for each pasture condition (poor, average, good). Ensure the X-axis is labeled with the crossing numbers, and the Y-axis represents the average daily gain in grams per day (g/day). Bar heights should reflect the respective values of 425 g/day for crossing 1 (poor), 713 g/day for crossing 2 (poor), and 725 g/day for crossing 9 (poor). Repeat for average and good conditions as per the data provided in the table.