Theory question 102
Animal Improvement and Breeding(a)(i) State three advantages of introduction in animal improvement programme. (ii) State three disadvantages of selection in animal improvement programme. (b) List four methods of artificial selection. (c) Give four physical features of animals which could be selected for breeding. (d) Mention six features of a good laying chicken.
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(a)(i) Any three: quickly brings in animals with desirable traits; increases genetic variety; raises productivity; can be crossed with local breeds for hybrid vigour; adds disease resistance
(ii) Any three: slow/time consuming; may remove some good traits; needs accurate records; requires skill and is costly; does not introduce new traits
(b) Any four: mass (individual) selection; pedigree selection; progeny testing; family selection; sib selection; tandem selection; independent culling
(c) Any four: good body size and conformation; strong legs and feet; good udder/teats (correct number); sound teeth/jaw; good coat or plumage; no physical defects; well-developed reproductive organs
(d) Any six: large, red, moist, warm comb and wattles; bright, alert eyes; moist, large, oval vent; wide pelvic bones (three fingers apart); soft, deep, pliable abdomen; pale shanks and beak (yellow pigment used up); active and alert; good appetite; late moulting
Give separate, distinct features.