Course Code: VET214
Course Title : Animal Breeding
Weekly Teaching Hour: (2-0)
Course Description : The application of scientific methods to animal breeding has led to major improvements in the output, cost and quality of meat, milk and fibre. In addition, animal breeding plans are important for continued improvement of companion animals and management of endangered species. Topics include an introduction to quantitative genetics, maximising response to selection, crossbreeding, estimation of genetic parameters and breeding values, mode of inheritance, mating systems, fitness and quality traits, animal diversity, development of breeding programs, use of biotechnology in breeding programs including gene mapping and parentage testing.
Recommended Textbook(s) and Supplementary Books:
- Genetic improvement of sheep and cattle. G. Simm
- Introduction to Veterinary Genetics. F. Nicholas
- Genetics for the Animal Sciences. D. van Vleck
- Introduction to Quantitative Genetics. D. Falconer
Course Assessment:
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Class Participation 10%,
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Mid-term Examination 30%,
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Assignments 10%,
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Final Examination 50%,
Attendance 95% compulsory.