Abstract

A practical performance test identifying rams siring progeny with greater than average tolerance to sporidesmin-induced liver damage (facial eczema) has been developed. The performance test, which can be conducted under field conditions using toxic pasture as the challenge, depends on measuring elevations in plasma gamma glutamyltransferase levels as a non-destructive way of assessing sporidesmin-induced liver damage. Selection for tolerance to facial eczema in commercial flocks is now feasible. Trial results indicate rapid responses to selection can be expected.

RJ, Fairclough, and BL Smith

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 43, , 213-216, 1983