Season and reproductive status rather than genetics factors influence change in ewe weight and fat over time. 3. Analysis of Merino ewes
S. F. Walkom A B E , F. D. Brien A B C , M. L. Hebart B , S. I. Mortimer A D and W. S. Pitchford B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Cooperative Research Centre for Sheep Industry Innovation, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia.
B School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus, SA 5371, Australia.
C Formerly South Australian Research and Development Institute, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia.
D New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Agricultural Research Centre, Trangie, NSW 2823, Australia.
E Corresponding author. Email: samuel.walkom@adelaide.edu.au
Animal Production Science 54(6) 821-830 https://doi.org/10.1071/AN13249
Submitted: 17 June 2013 Accepted: 26 March 2014 Published: 22 April 2014
Abstract
The profitability of southern Australian sheep production systems depends on the optimisation of stocking rates by meeting the nutritional demands of the breeding ewe while effectively utilising grown pasture. The aim of the study was to evaluate the genetic variation in liveweight and body condition of Merino ewes across their breeding life within a wool-based enterprise. The results were consistent with findings in crossbred ewes and showed that the genetic component of weight and body condition remained constant across the production cycle and age. The overall additive genetic effect accounted for 92% of the genetic variation in weight of Merino ewes bred across five production cycles. A genetic correlation of 0.85 suggested that ewes that were superior at maintaining their condition when rearing a single lamb would maintain this superiority when rearing multiple lambs. To improve weight and condition of Merino ewes during the ‘tough’ times, when nutrient requirements are not met by the pasture, selection can be made at any time and this will result in increased genetic condition at all times.
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