Vitrified embryo transfer in Merino sheep under extensive conditions

Carcass composition of Namaqua Afrikaner, Dorper and SA Mutton Merino ram lambs reared under extensive conditions

This study evaluated the differences in the muscle-fat-bone yield of Namaqua Afrikaner (NA), Dorper (D) and SA Mutton Merino (SAMM) ram lambs. The breeds constituted an indigenous, hardy and late maturing, fat-tailed breed (NA), an early maturing, commercial meat breed (D) and a late maturing commercial dual-purpose breed (SAMM). Lambs were slaughtered at 35 (± 8) days post weaning. Carcasses w...

Embryo Transfer in Sheep and Goats

Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis in Australian Merino Sheep

The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of inherited neurodegenerative diseases characterised by the accumulation of autofluorescent lipopigment in a variety of tissues. At least six different forms of NCL occur in humans and the disease has been identified in various animal species, including sheep. Clinical features of NCL are dementia, loss of vision, motor disturbances, and pr...

Embryo transfer and related technologies in sheep reproduction.

This paper reviews the status of embryo transfer and the major technologies applied to preimplantation of embryos in sheep. Embryo production from superovulated ewes is hindered by an unpredictable response to hormonal treatment. Progress in this area should be expected by an appropriated control of follicular development with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist or antagonist prior to...

Breeding for resistance of Merino sheep, Australia

John Karlsson is a researcher and farmer who has been working on a variety of sheep selection and resistance to parasites for more than 30 years. He is a Senior Veterinary Officer at the Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia (DAFWA). At DAFWA he has worked on regulatory disease management programmes and providing general advice to livestock farmers since 1978. Al Karlsson is a Zo...