Summary

• Description:

  The PDF document comprises Form 3 Agriculture notes on the topic of Livestock Production III (Selection and Breeding).

  The topics and sub-topics covered in the document include:

  • Introduction to Selection and Breeding
    • The notes introduce the concept that the performance of livestock is influenced by both genetic potential and environmental factors.
    • Selection and breeding are described as key practices for improving the genetic qualities of farm animals.
    • A brief overview of the reproductive systems of male and female livestock is also provided.
  • Selection of Livestock
    • Selection is defined as the process of choosing animals with desirable characteristics to be the parents of the next generation.
    • Methods of selection discussed are:
      • Mass Selection: Choosing animals based on their physical appearance (conformation) and performance records.
      • Progeny Testing: Selecting a sire (male parent) based on the performance of its offspring, which is a more accurate measure of its genetic worth.
  • Breeding Systems
    • Breeding is defined as the mating of a selected male and female to produce offspring with desired qualities.
    • The main systems are:
      • Inbreeding: The mating of closely related animals, which can be used to maintain uniform characteristics but may lead to a loss of hybrid vigour.
      • Outbreeding: The mating of unrelated animals. This includes out-crossing (within the same breed), cross-breeding (different breeds), and upgrading (using a purebred sire on a grade female to improve the stock).
  • Artificial Insemination (A.I.)
    • A.I. is defined as the introduction of semen into the female reproductive tract by artificial means.
    • The notes detail the procedure, from semen collection and evaluation to the insemination process.
    • The advantages of A.I. are listed, such as controlling breeding diseases, reducing the cost of keeping a bull, and using semen from high-quality, proven sires.
    • Disadvantages, such as the need for skilled personnel and the risk of spreading genetic defects, are also mentioned.
  • Embryo Transfer
    • This is described as a modern technology that allows a high-quality female to produce many offspring by transferring her embryos to surrogate mothers.
    • Its advantages include the rapid multiplication of superior females, while its main disadvantage is the high cost.
  • Parturition
    • Parturition is defined as the act of giving birth in female animals.
    • The notes conclude by listing the common signs of impending birth in cattle, pigs, and rabbits.

  These notes are comprehensive, neat, and printable, making them an excellent resource for students studying livestock breeding and selection. They are also highly suitable for teachers to use for lesson preparation, providing a structured and clear guide to the topic.

• Category:

  Lesson Notes
• Level:

  Form 3
• Subject:

  AGRICULTURE

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