Genetic Evaluation of Dam Weight at Lambing in Birth Weight of Sandyno Sheep

Author: Thangavel Geetha, Ramasamy Chitra, Sarojini Muthukumarasamy Kanniappan Karthickeyan, Natarajan Prema, Rangasamy Mathivanan and Rishipal Anilkumar

Journal Name:

Download PDF

Abstract

The body weight of lambs at birth has an important role in achieving good sheep production. The study investigated the influence of the body weight of ewes at lambing on the birth weight of lambs using data from the Sandyno breed of sheep reared at the Sheep Breeding Research Station, Sandynallah, over the period of 1993-2021. The average weights of the lambs at birth and the dam's weight at lambing were reported as 2.67 ± 0.08 kg and 31.28 ± 0.04 kg, respectively. The study found that the weight of the dam had a significant impact on lamb birth weight, with a correlation coefficient of 0.449 and a regression coefficient of 0.203 ± 0.55. The analysis of variance of the weight of the dam at lambing and birth weight of lambs due to regression indicated that this regression was statistically significant (p < 0.01). The findings of the study revealed a positive correlation between the dam’s weight and lamb birth weight, suggesting that the weight of the dam could be used as a predictor for lamb birth weight. This information can be valuable for selecting young lambs even before they are born, aiding in better herd management and improving overall sheep production efficiency

Keywords

Dam weight at Lambing, Birth weight, Sandyno

Conclusion

The findings of the present study confirm a positive relationship between the dam's weight at lambing and the birth weight of its lambs. Similar results have been observed in previous studies, indicating that lamb birth weight tends to be higher for heavy ewes and lower for lighter ewes. This positive relationship is valuable as it can aid in the selection of superior lambs even before their birth. Improved management and feeding practices for dams in Sandyno sheep can potentially enhance the birth weight of the lambs. By ensuring proper nutrition and optimal care for pregnant ewes, breeders can optimize the growth and development of the unborn lambs, ultimately leading to higher birth weights and improved productivity within the flock

References

-

How to cite this article

Thangavel Geetha, Ramasamy Chitra, Sarojini Muthukumarasamy Kanniappan Karthickeyan, Natarajan Prema, Rangasamy Mathivanan and Rishipal Anilkumar (2024). Genetic Evaluation of Dam Weight at Lambing in Birth Weight of Sandyno Sheep. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(3): 162-165