(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.o
Explanation
(a)(i) Advantages of Introduction to Animal improvement Programme: -It brings animals of desirable traits into the farm. -Resuits in improved breeding program. -It brings variety into the farm/ genetic diversity/genetic variability. -Enhances productivity/high productivity. -Helps to incorporate and stabilize Δesirable traits in the farm. -Perform better and are able to adapt to local conditions. -Resistance to pests. -Resistance to diseases. (ii) Disadvantages of selection in animal improvement programme: - May lead to the elimination of some existing desirable traits. -It is time-consuming. -It is expensive/high cost is needed. -It is tedious and stressful. -It requires skilled labor or expertise/technique. -No new desirable characteristics are introduced. -Requires up-to-date records that may not be present. -No guarantee that the desired traits would be passed on to the offspring. -Mutation could occur.
(b) Methods of artificial selection: - Mass selection/individual selection. -Progeny selection.-Family selection. -Pedigree selection. -Within family selection/sib selection body size.
(c) Physical features of animals to be selected for breeding: - Good body conformation of animals/body size. -Animals with good dentition and jaw/beak. -Animals with good feet/legs. -Animals with good coat/plumage color ANin2is without deformity in male/female reproductive organs. -Animals with appropriate nunber of eat -Acfive when allowed to moye/thriftiness. -No discharge from orifices. -Male must have a high libido. -Good temperament. -Good health. -Mothering ability/fecundity.
(d) Features of a good laying chicken: - Possession of glossy plumage/attractive feathers. -Possession of wide, moist cloaca. -Bright Ted comb and wattle. -Consistent optimal feed intake. -Soft and pliable abdomen. -Broad flexible pelvic bone. - Absence of broodiness. -Strong and well-curved beak. -Bright eyes which are weil opened and alert.- small, lean, and proportionate head. -Short and strong neck. Smooth and oily skin. -Broad and straight back. -Long, deep and proportionate body. Consistent optimal water intake.