@article {3672, title = {Dominant mutation(s) for low fibre curvature in the wool of sheep}, journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production}, volume = {81}, year = {2021}, month = {01/2022}, pages = {112-116}, address = {Online}, abstract = {Two sires judged to have phenotypically lustrous wool as neonates were mated to ewes that did not exhibit lustre in their fleece as adults. Around half their progeny were lustrous as neonates. Wool characteristics of these progeny were measured on an optically based fibre diameter analyser (OFDA) when they were weaned and again as yearlings. There was a profound difference in mean fibre curvature (P<0.001) such that the lustrous phenotype had less curvature in both sire groups (22.8, 24.5{\textdegree}/mm) compared with the non-lustrous (67.5, 56.2{\textdegree}/mm) as lambs, and 29.8, 28.1{\textdegree}/mm compared with 74.1, 55.0{\textdegree}/mm as yearlings. Curvature of the sire groups was significantly different in concert with breed mix, Merino in one sire and Romney in the other, but only when their fleece was not lustrous. The greasy fleece of the lustrous yearlings was significantly lighter (1.8 vs 3.0 kg, P<0.05) than their non-lustrous contemporaries, while there was no significant difference in fibre diameter between the two phenotypes as lambs or yearlings. Fibre curvature is inexpensive to measure and well-defined, whereas lustre is a qualitatively assessed trait. These findings suggest {\textquotedblleft}low fibre curvature{\textquotedblright} would be a more appropriate name for the trait than {\textquotedblleft}lustre{\textquotedblright}. Keywords: lustre mutant; wool fibre; crimp; curvature}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and van Koten C and Richena M and Plowman JE and Harland DP} } @article {3672, title = {INVITED REVIEW: A review of the current sheep industry in New Zealand and opportunities for change to meet future challenges}, journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production}, volume = {81}, year = {2021}, month = {01/2022}, pages = {1-15}, address = {Online}, abstract = {

Like all farming systems, sheep operations face increasing economic, environmental, cultural, and social challenges, including climate change and consumer expectations about their food. Genetic improvement has the potential to help with these challenges. This review explores the importance of genetic improvement on welfare and disease traits in meeting these challenges. For all wool breeds, there is a need for traits such as being polled, having a short tail and having a bare breech and a bare belly to ensure an ethical outcome. Sheep that either seasonally lose their fleece, or do not grow wool, represent an opportunity. Predicted climate change poses significant animal-health challenges, including the internal parasite Haemonchus contortus, facial eczema, flystrike and pneumonia, that are likely to encroach on a wider geographic range. Given consumer expectations around reduced chemical inputs and improved animal welfare, genetic improvement will play a critical role in developing sheep that are more tolerant to such health challenges. While several key physical characteristics required for the future exist in minor breeds currently in New Zealand, their performance under a range of New Zealand commercial farming conditions has not been evaluated. Some overseas breeds, such as Katahdin and Barbados Blackbelly, may offer opportunities. Consideration needs to be given to the use of novel gene pools both within and outside the New Zealand sheep industry for it to be able to meet future challenges. To achieve this end, more information is needed about the overall merit of these novel breeds, to be able to identify the best strategy to take towards breeding sheep that address the future needs of the New Zealand sheep industry. Keywords: sheep; genotypes; breeding; future

}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {PL Johnson and Newman S-AN and Mcrae KM and van der Weerden T and Brown M and Scobie DR} } @article {3672, title = {Changes in live weight and fleece characteristics during the lifetime of three breeds of New Zealand feral sheep that differ in fleece type}, journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production}, volume = {80}, year = {2020}, month = {09/2020}, pages = {117-123}, address = {Online}, abstract = {Live weight after joining and nine fleece characteristics were recorded throughout the lifetime of flocks of Hokonui, Campbell Island and Raglan sheep grazing at Whatawhata and Winchmore Research Centres between 1991 and 2004. The wool characteristics were measured in 585 individual wool samples collected at shearing from 90 breeding ewes sampled between one year of age and up to 12 years of age. Data on live weight, fleece weight, staple length, mean and variability of fibre diameter, fibre curvature, crimping and core bulk were analysed after adjustment for effects of grazing location and reproductive performance during the previous year. The three flocks differed in all measured characteristics, with all except live weight, mean fibre curvature and core bulk exhibiting a significant flock by age interaction. Live weight attained a maximum at six years of age, while greasy fleece weight and staple length decreased after two years of age. Core bulk decreased after three years of age. Fibre curvature decreased and time to form a crimp increased throughout the sheep{\textquoteright}s life. Fibre diameter variability between and along fibres showed a variable age response between flocks. The three feral flocks exhibited a different age response to continuously farmed breeds. Keywords: fleece characteristics; age effects; Hokonui; Campbell Island; Raglan}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Sumner RMW and Scobie DR and O{\textquoteright}Connell D and Henderson HV} } @article {3672, title = {Carbon footprint of two unique farms, compared with industry averages}, journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production}, volume = {79}, year = {2019}, month = {07/2019}, pages = {118-124}, address = {Palmerston North}, abstract = {Three years of data from a North Island breeding property (Onetai) and a South Island finishing property (Highlands) were modelled in Farmax and Overseer{\textregistered}, to estimate production, profitability and GHG emissions. On an annual basis, each hectare of Onetai averaged more than 100 kg meat and 25 kg of fibre across three years, worth $420/ha. On Highlands, each hectare produced 200 to 327 kg of meat and 20 kg of fibre, with revenue on average $737/ha, but varying between $433/ha in a drought and almost $900/ha in better seasons. GHG emissions (in CO2 equivalents CO2-e) ranged from 3106 to 3302 kg/ha at Onetai, and from 3043 to 5067 kg/ha at Highlands. The dramatic variation on the finishing farm was due to varying numbers of store stock purchased and finished according to available forage. Industry data for similar class farms modelled using the same software averaged around 3600 kg CO2-e /ha. Similar farms ($339/ha) were less profitable than Onetai, and finishing farms were less profitable than Highlands ($467/ha). Per hectare, all farms emitted similar amounts of GHG to literature values, but study farms produced more meat and greater financial returns. Greater efficiency of production is better for the pocket and the planet.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Dynes RA and Scobie DR and Vibart RE and Rennie G and Hutchinson KJ and Taylor A and Moss RA and Dennis S and Wall A} } @article {3672, title = {INVITED PAPER: Has progress been made in increasing the eco-efficiency of livestock systems?}, journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production}, volume = {79}, year = {2019}, month = {07/2019}, pages = {43-55}, address = {Palmerston North}, abstract = {Current challenges for New Zealand livestock farming systems include soil erosion, water quality, greenhouse gases (GHG), and indigenous biodiversity. Industry data were used to quantify changes in emissions of the major livestock sectors from 1990, by examining inputs (e.g., livestock numbers, fertiliser) and outputs (e.g., GHG, nitrate leaching (N), saleable products) using Overseer. Productivity gains were significant for extensive sheep and beef farms, from 107 (meat + wool) kg/ha in 1990 up to 167 kg/ha in 2012. Gains were modest for intensive sheep and beef farms in this period (from 219 up to 238 kg/ha). Extensive sheep and beef increased from 3370 to 3997 kg/ha of GHG and N leached from 12 to 14 kg/ha. Intensive sheep and beef farm systems showed negligible change in N leached, while GHG emissions rose from 4167 to 4470 kg CO2-e/ha. North Island dairy farms increased from 672 to 1000 kg milk solids/ha, from 11341 to over 12000 kg CO2-e/ha of GHG and N leached increased from 44 up to 50 kg/ha. All farm systems delivered more product in proportion to GHG and N per hectare per year. Potential scenarios for the sheep and beef sector into the future were investigated, by examining the influence of ongoing increases in reproduction of ewes, lamb growth, hogget lambing and moving away from breeding cows and older cattle could have on future productivity gains and environmental impact. With the area in pasture likely to continue to decline in extensive livestock systems as outstanding environmental issues are addressed, the potential exists to offset > 20\% of livestock GHG emissions. Intensive systems have fewer opportunities to make production and eco-efficiency gains, with less scope to reduce their impact. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Mackay AD and Scobie DR and Rhodes TR and Devantier B} } @conference {3672, title = {Mechanical properties of black, grey, and white hoof material of sheep}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {77}, year = {2017}, month = {06/2017}, pages = {154-158}, address = {Rotorua}, abstract = {A study was undertaken to better understand the care and attitudes towards rams on NZ commercial farms. Farms (n=22) were surveyed in Otago and South Canterbury giving indicative data on the treatment and attitudes that commercial farmers have towards rams. On average (SD; Range) the number of ewes put to each ram was, for maternal and terminal sires respectively, 92 (21; 56-143) and 84 (20; 50-100). The reported difference between when rams were put to ewes and when lambs were weaned was 319 days (51; 199-359). Rams were typically put to ewes in April and early May, and weaned as early as November. Visual assessment was most commonly used to assess rams for purchase, with most farmers considering visual attributes and then figures, such as breeding values, to choose rams. The average mortality of rams was reported as 5\% (7\%; 0-28\%). The average culling of maternal and terminal sires over the year was respectively 26 and 29\%. Annual health checks by a vet were reported for 45\% of the farms. A most common reason for checking was for Brucella ovis testing. This research will provide information to guide further studies on commercial sheep farms.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Makela AG and van Koten C and O{\textquoteright}Connell D} } @conference {3672, title = {The impact of lamb growth rate pre- and post-weaning on farm profitability in three geoclimatic regions}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {76}, year = {2016}, month = {07/2016}, pages = {132-136}, address = {Adelaide}, abstract = {Sheep and beef farmers target an increase in lamb growth rates as a means of increasing on-farm profit. Increasing any performance parameter invariably increases feed demand, resulting in either a need to increase feed supply or reduce feed demand in some other area of the farm system, therefore potentially affecting profit. A whole-farm-system model was used to assess the impact of increasing lamb weaning weight and post-weaning growth rate on farm profit and enterprise selection of three farms from three regions (Otago, Gisborne and Northland). Farm profit did not always increase with an increase in weaning weight or post-weaning growth rate. Farm profit was highest in the cool temperate region when weaning weight was at the base weight (27 kg) and post-weaning growth rate was 75 g/d greater than current. Farm profit was highest in the dry temperate region when weaning weight was 32 kg (6 kg above the base weight) and post-weaning growth rate was 50 g/d greater than the base growth profile. In the warm, temperate region, farm profit was highest at the two extremes, the highest weaning weight (30.6 kg) and post-weaning growth rate profile (100 g/d greater than the base profile) and at the lowest weaning weight (24.6 kg) and post-weaning growth rate profile (50 g/d less than the base profile). This demonstrates the interactions and trade-offs between feed supply and lamb growth rate on farm, and highlights that increasing lamb liveweight gain does not necessarily equate to increased profit.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Thompson BR and Stevens DR and Scobie DR and O{\textquoteright}Connell D} } @conference {3672, title = {The influence of previous reproduction on subsequent fertility in multiparous ewes}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {76}, year = {2016}, month = {07/2016}, pages = {155-158}, address = {Adelaide}, abstract = {Adult ewes often lose live weight while lactating, but should regain it prior to the following mating if pasture availability or sheep numbers are managed judiciously. Data from a self-replacing flock of Wiltshire ewes four to nine years of age (n=267) was available for 622 lambing events across a 13-year period. Wiltshires grow little wool and live weight was not complicated by fleece weight. The average number of lambs born was 1.76 per ewe per year during the course of the study. Ewes not rearing a lamb (13.2\%), or rearing singles (42.4\%), twins (42.4\%), or triplets (1.9\%), were present at weaning. All ewes were grazed together and when their lambs were weaned, those that did not raise a lamb (67.4 {\textpm} 9.7 kg) were heavier than ewes that raised singles (63.0 {\textpm} 9.3 kg), twins (59.9 {\textpm} 8.5 kg) or triplets (59.7 {\textpm} 7.7 kg) (P<0.001). Despite this, the previous number of lambs weaned did not influence the number of lambs born in the subsequent year (P = 0.43), but was positively associated with ewe liveweight gain between weaning and mating (P<0.01). Number of lambs born was positively influenced by ewe live weight at mating up to 65 kg. Reproductive performance was not influenced by the previous year, providing ewes were able to increase live weight between weaning and mating.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and O{\textquoteright}Connell D and Noble A and Greer AW} } @conference {3672, title = {Blank panels in sheep yards encourage sheep to jump}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {75}, year = {2015}, month = {07/2015}, pages = {191-194}, address = {Dunedin}, abstract = { The lateral sides of two adjacent forcing pens and the sides of the races were clad with plywood to improve sheep flow in yards at AgResearch Lincoln farm. Following this, two flocks of yearling sheep were run through the yards every two weeks for drafting. One flock was exclusively male (n = 223), while the other was all female (n = 248). On the first occasion, a number of yearlings jumped out of the forcing pen. This had not been observed in previous years, so the number jumping was recorded. A non-parametric time-to-event analysis method, the Kaplan-Meier estimator, was used to obtain cumulative incidence functions of sheep jumping. If they were to jump out of the pen, the sheep had two choices, a pipe rail fence (or gate) or a blank plywood wall. During 14 handling events, 1\% of yearlings jumped the pipe rails whereas 7\% jumped the plywood wall (P < 0.001). These yearlings chose to jump a fence they could not see through. Clearly there are many variables that could be tested in this model.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and O{\textquoteright}Connell D and van Koten C and R Phiskie} } @conference {3672, title = {Preliminary linkage studies in sheep of keratin and keratin-associated protein genes with fleece weight, wool fibre diameter and fibre curvature}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {75}, year = {2015}, month = {07/2015}, address = {Dunedin}, abstract = { A linkage study was conducted to detect variations in the genes for keratins and keratin-associated proteins (KRTAP) that might affect wool traits. To date 93 such genes have been identified in sheep: 85 of them (~91\%) are clustered in three chromosomal regions. Twenty-one genes are grouped within a 4-Mbp region on sheep chromosome 1 (OAR1), 28 within a 1-Mbp segment on chromosome 3 (OAR3), and 36 are clustered within a 1.3-Mbp site on chromosome 11 (OAR11). The DNA markers used in this work were single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) dispersed throughout these keratin and KRTAP gene clusters. Markers were designed as three SNP-multiplexes: a 25-SNP, a 15-SNP and a 19-SNP multiplex for keratins/KRTAP regions on OAR1, OAR3 and OAR11, respectively. Resource animals came from eleven sire families whose progeny had been phenotyped for greasy fleece weight, washing yield, fibre curvature and diameter. Between 29 and 45 progeny per sire were genotyped with the three SNPmultiplexes. Linkage analyses on co-segregation of SNP alleles from sires with wool phenotypes of progeny were done across all the sires and within sire groups. Based on theoretical genome-wide threshold (F-value 10.13 and nominal P = 0.0016 for withinsire suggestive level), one family showed suggestive quantitative trait loci for greasy fleece weight on OAR1 and fibre diameter variability on OAR3. For these experimental animals, the results show no strong evidence of involvement of keratin and KRTAP genes in the wool characteristics analysed.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Phua SH and Scobie DR and O{\textquoteright}Connell D and Henry H and Dodds KG and Brauning R and Clerens S} } @conference {89236, title = {Another look at shearing lambs}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {73}, year = {2013}, month = {Jan}, pages = {120-125}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Hamilton}, abstract = {

Some farmers believe shearing lambs improves weight gain. On four separate farms, lambs were randomly drafted into two groups in summer, one was shorn while the other was crutched but left unshorn. They were subsequently run as one mob until all were shorn as yearlings in spring. Corriedale lambs (n = 100 x 2 years and 50 per treatment in a third year) were used on one farm, Halfbred lambs (n = 100 per treatment x 1 year) on another farm and two farms used Merino lambs (n = 50 per treatment on each farm x 1 year). Averaged across three consecutive years, the Corriedales shorn as lambs were 2.8 kg heavier as yearlings (P \<0.001) and grew 629g more wool (P \<0.001), which could be profitable. Halfbred yearlings shorn as lambs were 0.85 kg heavier (P = 0.041) and although not significant, grew more wool (120 g). Shorn Merino lambs produced 140 g more wool on one farm (P = 0.019) only, with no significant live weight differences between shearing treatments on either farm. International literature suggests the decision to shear lambs should be based on availability of feed, cost of shearing, time of year, temperature and the riskof flystrike, grass seed damage or adverse weather.

}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Marshall AJ and van Koten C} } @conference {79018, title = {Genetic and phenotypic relationships among flystrike indicator traits in the Earnscleugh stud Merino flock}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {72}, year = {2012}, month = {Jan}, pages = {192-195}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Christchurch}, abstract = {Increases in breech wrinkles, breech cover and dags have been shown to increase flystrike susceptibility of Merino sheep. At shearing at approximately 320 days of age in 2007, 2008 and 2009, breech wrinkle (1 to 5), dag score (1 to 5) and breech cover (1 to 5) were scored on 736, 806 and 866 yearlings that were the progeny of 31, 38 and 36 sires respectively. It was hypothesised that flystrike would become worse with an increasing score, where 5 indicated a very wrinkly, very daggy or very woolly breech. Fleece weight was recorded at shearing and fleece midside samples were collected and measured for washing yield. Breech wrinkle score (h{\texttwosuperior} = 0.25 {\textpm} 0.07), breech cover (h{\texttwosuperior} = 0.33 {\textpm} 0.08) and dag score (h{\texttwosuperior} = 0.10 {\textpm} 0.04) were found to be heritable. Breech wrinkle score and breech cover were phenotypically (0.39 {\textpm} 0.02, P < 0.05) and genetically correlated (0.40 {\textpm} 0.16, P < 0.05). Clean fleece weight was heritable (h{\texttwosuperior} = 0.33 {\textpm} 0.06) and showed a strong significant negative genetic correlation (-0.52 {\textpm} 0.14, P < 0.001) with breech cover. There was no evidence of flystrike during the three years of investigation, but this stud could decrease susceptibility by decreasing breech cover, breech wrinkles and dag score}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Hickey SM and Campbell AK and Maslen DP} } @conference {78980, title = {Relative performance of Wiltshire and Perendale sheep}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {72}, year = {2012}, month = {Jan}, pages = {28-34}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Christchurch}, abstract = {

Performance data are reported for flocks of Wiltshire and Perendale sheep grazed together for four years on a North Island hill country property (Whatawhata) and for four years on a South Island breeding/finishing property (Winchmore). Wiltshire ewes were lighter than Perendale ewes post-joining at Whatawhata, and at weaning at Winchmore. Greasy fleece weights of the Wiltshire and Perendale yearlings were 0.8 and 2.2 kg respectively, and 0.5 and 3.3 kg respectively for the ewes. As a result of a confounding effect of fibre shedding between day length and date of shearing, Wiltshire ewes exhibited a linear decrease in harvested fleece weight from the yearling stage whereas Perendale ewes showed a curvilinear age effect, with a maximum fleece weight at three to four years of age. Wiltshire ewes had a significantly lower reproductive rate, and lamb survival than Perendale ewes at both locations, with reproductive rate, fertility and litter size increasing significantly following the transfer of the flocks from Whatawhata to Winchmore. While there was no significant difference in the total weight of lambs weaned by the two breeds at each location, the loss in wool production would be compensated by lower shearing and management costs for Wiltshire sheep that shed completely.

}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Sumner RMW and Scobie DR and O{\textquoteright}Connell D and Henderson HV} } @conference {75915, title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Arapawa: a novel New Zealand sheep breed of distinct origin}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {71}, year = {2011}, month = {Jan}, pages = {248-250}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Invercargill}, abstract = {Arapawa sheep are a feral breed found on Arapawa Island in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand. Their origin is not documented, but it is thought to be one of the oldest feral flocks in New Zealand dating back to approximately mid 1800s (Orwin et al., 1984). There are numerous... Continued}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Young EA and Kijas JW and Mcculloch R and Scobie DR and Mcrae KM and Pickering NK and Dodds KG and McEwan JC} } @conference {75916, title = {Genetic and phenotypic relationships between flystrike indicator traits in a stud Merino flock}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {71}, year = {2011}, month = {Jan}, pages = {251-256}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Invercargill}, abstract = {

Increasing breech wrinkles, breech cover and dags increase flystrike susceptibility of Merino sheep. Urine stain has been implicated in flystrike, although there is a paucity of data. At tail docking in 2007, 2008 and 2009 on a property breeding Merino rams, breech wrinkle (1 to 5) was scored on 238, 202 and 337 lambs that were the progeny of 12, 9 and 9 sires respectively. Dag score (0 to 5), urine stain (0 to 5) and breech cover (1 to 5) were scored at 100 days of age. Breech wrinkle score (h{\texttwosuperior} = 0.51 {\textpm} 0.11) and breech cover (h{\texttwosuperior} = 0.27 {\textpm} 0.08) were heritable, and phenotypically (0.16 {\textpm} 0.04, P \<0.05) and genetically correlated (0.77 {\textpm} 0.14, P \<0.05). Dag and urine stain scores were skewed towards low scores and the heritability estimates for these traits were low (h{\texttwosuperior} = 0.08 {\textpm} 0.07 and 0.04 {\textpm} 0.06 respectively). Yearling clean fleece weight was heritable (h{\texttwosuperior} = 0.28 {\textpm} 0.13) and genetically correlated with breech cover (-0.62 {\textpm} 0.26, P \<0.05). There was no evidence of flystrike during the investigation, but there was potential to decrease susceptibility by decreasing breech cover and breech wrinkles in this flock.

}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Hickey SM and Maslen DP and Black GM} } @conference {69508, title = {Wool characteristics in the Meat and wool New Zealand Central Progeny Test flocks}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {70}, year = {2010}, month = {Jun}, pages = {217-221}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Palmerston North}, abstract = {The Meat and Wool New Zealand Central Progeny Test programme (CPT) was established to demonstrate the relative breeding merit of leading sires in the New Zealand sheep industry. Here we describe the wool grown over the summer by the 2007 born one-year-old ewes within the CPT. Within fleeces, staple strength varied between farms as shown by the mean difference of 23 N/ktex in offspring of the link sire. Staple strength correlated positively with midside fibre diameter (r = 0.26), medullation (r = 0.23) and negatively with fibre curvature (r = -0.61). Staple strength was similar on anterior (74 {\textpm} 24 N/ktex) and midside (75 {\textpm} 24 N/ktex) body-sites, but was weaker on the hindleg (64 {\textpm} 21 N/ktex; P <0.001). Overall mean staple strength was 72 {\textpm} 20 N/ktex, while individual fleeces ranged from 19 to 121 N/ktex. Ten percent of fleeces measured below 45 N/ktex leaving them prone to excessive fibre breakage during processing. Some fleeces varied up to 40 N/ktex across body-sites. Even within one flock, offspring of individual sires differed by a mean of 29 N/ktex, suggesting a consistent weakness of wool in the progeny of some highly ranked sires which will negatively affect processing and end-product performance.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Craven AJ and Ashby MG and Scobie DR} } @conference {60950, title = {Variation of wool between and across the fleeces of composite-breed strong wool sheep in New Zealand}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {69}, year = {2009}, month = {Jun}, pages = {90-95}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Christchurch}, abstract = {Many farmers in New Zealand have moved towards using composite-breed sheep flocks to increase the meat production and fecundity of their stock. We aimed to determine whether flocks with a wider genetic base had greater between and within-fleece variation than single-breed flocks. Wool from seventeen body sites of sheep from five flocks of diverse genetic background (Romney, Coopworth, and crosses with Texel, Finnish Landrace and East Friesian breed lines) were compared. Both mean fibre diameter and mean fibre curvature differed between flocks (P <0.001), and across the body (P <0.01). While fibre diameter was more consistent, fibre curvature was more variable across the finer fleeces of flocks with some Finnish Landrace influence. Wool was shorter in Texel crosses, resulting in more consistent length across body sites. Our data suggests that composite-breed sheep exhibit increased within-fleece variation of some wool traits and decreased variation of others. Of most significance was that the extent of wool variation across body sites varied considerably between sheep, regardless of their genotype. In general, there was little association between wool traits with respect to this across-fleece uniformity. Fleece uniformity can be assessed by sampling across the anterior-posterior axis. Selection of stock with more uniform fleeces for specific traits may aid the production of wool better specified to satisfy differentiated niche markets. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Craven AJ and Ashby MG and Wildermoth JE and Cox NR and Scobie DR and Nixon AJ} } @conference {41788, title = {Wool follicle characteristics in sheep with differing ventral wool length phenotypes}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {68}, year = {2008}, month = {Jan}, pages = {49-52}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Brisbane, Australia}, abstract = {Recent interest in sheep requiring less on-farm fleece management has lead to the development of sheep with long wool covering the trunk, but only short wool on the belly and breech. We have characterised developmental and structural features of the skin, including follicle density, primary to secondary follicle ratio and follicle activity state at various body sites of bare- and woolly-bellied ewes, and their foetuses. At 70 days of gestation, foetuses of bare-bellied ewes had developed fewer follicles than woolly-bellied sheep (1.7 {\textpm} 0.27 versus 2.8 {\textpm} 0.21 follicles per mm2; P<0.01). In adults, similar densities and ratios of primary to secondary follicles occurred in bare- and woolly-bellied ewes in each body site studied including dorsal, midside, anterior and posterior fleece positions, as well as the belly, breech and face. However, the proportion of inactive follicles in late autumn was greater in bare-belly adult ewes, not only on the belly (15.5 {\textpm} 1.9\% versus 4.9 {\textpm} 2.9\%; P<0.05), but also across the fleece which exhibited anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral gradients in follicle activity. The short wool phenotype was thus associated with altered follicle cycles, but no differences in adult follicle densities. However, wool production might be compromised, as follicle activity varied across the whole fleece of bare-belly sheep. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Craven AJ and Scobie DR and Ashby MG and Nixon AJ} } @conference {42006, title = {Expression of the developmental regulators Msx1 and Msx2 in sheep skin varies with body region and wool growth pattern}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {67}, year = {2007}, month = {Jan}, pages = {345-350}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Wanaka}, abstract = {The variability of fibre characteristics affects the processing performance of wool and therefore the value of the wool clip. These variations originate during development in utero, and manifest as patterns of fibre growth that differ between body regions. Two transcription factors, Msx1 and Msx2, have previously been linked to regional specification within the skin and alsoact as regulators of differentiation within the hair follicle matrix. In this study, we describe the expression patterns of Msx1and Msx2in multiple body sites of foetuses and adult crossbreed ewes. In foetal skin, the expression of both Msx1and Msx2was greatest in the regions of lower eventual follicle density. In adults, both anterio-posterior and dorso-ventral gradients were observed in Msx1expression across the fleece bearing skin. Higher concentrations of Msx1and Msx2transcripts were present in adultsthan foetuses, possibly reflecting additional roles in regulating the differentiation and growth of the wool fibre shaft. These results are consistent with the involvement of Msx1 and Msx2 in the development of skin regions, wool follicle growth, and anterio-posterior and dorso-ventral gradients of wool characteristics in sheep}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Craven AJ and Rufaut NW and Scobie DR and Nixon AJ} } @conference {41756, title = {Preliminary observations on fresh and healed scars in deer skins}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {67}, year = {2007}, month = {Jan}, pages = {356-360}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Wanaka}, abstract = {To improve knowledge of where frequent damage to deer skins was occurring, and how to quantify it, studies were carried out at deer slaughter plants (DSPs) in the South Island, New Zealand. Skins from supplying farms were identified using a pattern punched into the fresh skin. In Part A, scarring was assessed following de-hairing and pickling, in skins from three suppliers at each of five slaughter plants. On average there were 4 (range 0-17) fresh and 7 (range 0-85) healed scars per skin. Effects of supplier and DSP on the number of fresh and healed scars were observed (P<0.001), with some achieving very low levels of damage, and some showing frequent, consistent forms of damage. In Part B, skins were assessed at wet-blue and finished leather stages, from deer killed in nine slaughter groups over three days at one DSP. In wet-blue skins, slaughter groups differed in the number (P<0.001) and severity (P<0.01) of healed scars, while in finished leather, slaughter groups differed significantly in damage score (P<0.05). Together the studies showed effects of supplier and DSP on the amount, severity and type of deer skin damage.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Pollard JC} } @conference {41692, title = {Presidential Address 2006: Females are in fashion}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {67}, year = {2007}, month = {Jan}, pages = {1-8}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Wanaka}, abstract = {It is with some trepidation that I explore this topic with you. Please bear with me and don{\textquoteright}t throw your barbs until the end, when I would imagine there will be at least some of you that I have not offended in one way or another. I don{\textquoteright}t seek to upset or embarrass any particular person, but I simply want you to think about what I have to say. Some of the references I use are not the kind of reference you could track down easily, but let us just say that was a protocol brought into science by men, set it to one side and see where a more inclusive style of language might lead us.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR} } @conference {42005, title = {Variation of wool characteristics across the body of New Zealand Wiltshire sheep}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {67}, year = {2007}, month = {Jan}, pages = {339-344}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Wanaka}, abstract = {Variations in wool quality within a sheep arise from inherent differences between sites across the body and between fibres within a site, as well as variationsalong individual fibres that result from nutritional, reproductive and seasonal influences. The Wiltshire sheep is a shedding breed in which there is renewed interest due to the relative values of meat and wool, and the costs of wool production. Staple length, fibre diameter, fibre diameter standard deviation, and medullation were measured on wool grown at seventeen sites across the body of two-tooth Wiltshire rams undergoing a photoperiod-induced wool growth cycle. Staple length was longest on the shoulder (41 {\textpm} 2.5 mm) and shortest on the belly (14 {\textpm} 1.2 mm). There was an inverse correlation between staple length and fibre diameter with the finest fibres on the shoulder and coarsest on the hip (R{\texttwosuperior}=-0.7, P<0.001). This gradient of increasing fibre diameter was associated with increased variation within-staples (R{\texttwosuperior}=-0.8, P<0.001). Fibre medullation increased from the shoulder to the hip. Short coarse fibres on the front and back legs, along with facial hairs highlight differences in major regional skin domains that are established in utero. Although midside samples were representative for each fleece they did not portray the anterior/posterior and dorsal/ventral gradients observed in all characteristics studied. Understanding the within-fleece variation in wool characteristics is a requirement for producing sheep with more desirable fleece distribution patterns.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Craven AJ and Ashby MG and Scobie DR and Nixon AJ} } @conference {41628, title = {The biological basis of variation in sheep{\textquoteright}s fleece cover}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {66}, year = {2006}, month = {Jan}, pages = {124-129}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Napier}, abstract = {Selective breeding has been used for thousands of years to improve the quality and weight of wool, but surprisingly there is still a large amount of geneticvariation present at the loci involved in the {\textquotedblleft}blueprint{\textquotedblright} for wool synthesis. This genetic heterogeneity results in considerable variation within, and between individual fleeces. This has both positive and negative implications. Where a wool processor requires uniformity in raw stock, both to gain efficiency in processing and to make a product to specification, it has a negative effect. Where specific traits convey unique properties it opens up opportunities for differentiated products. Markers for genes or knowledge of individual gene effects may be useful for identifying sheep with desirable wool traits that are difficult or expensive to measure under field conditions. The discovery of genetic variation in valuable fibre traits could allow the development of gene-marker tests which would assist breeding for more consistent wool.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Nixon AJ and Rufaut NW} } @conference {41878, title = {Options for change within the wool supply chain}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {66}, year = {2006}, month = {Jan}, pages = {113-119}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Napier}, abstract = {Supply chains are the channels along which products flow from producer to processors and manufacturers, distributors and retailers until final consumers purchase them. The businesses along the chain are linked through the transactions between them and the information that they share. Wool is an inherently variable product that cannot be adapted quickly to changes in processor{\textquoteright}s requirements. As such it is a weak competitor in a section of the global textile marketplace dominated by synthetic textiles derived from petrochemicals. Nevertheless, wool has unique functional advantages over most synthetic fibres. Efficient supply chains are dependent on effective relationships between stakeholders. Reduction of costs incurred along the supply chain requires investment in horizontal and/or vertical relationships to improve information transfer between stakeholders, or to benefit from economies of scale and/or scope. Improved information transfer strengthens stakeholder confidence enabling the development of innovative business initiatives. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {McDermott AK and Sumner RMW and Scobie DR} } @conference {41524, title = {Flystrike in lambs selected for resistance or susceptibility to ryegrass staggers, when challenged with high or low endophyte pastures}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {64}, year = {2004}, month = {Jan}, pages = {297-299}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Hamilton}, abstract = {Research has shown that incidence of flystrike is reduced in sheep grazing low endophyte ryegrass. This experiment was designed to test the hypothesis that where lambs are bred specifically for resistance to ryegrass staggers (RGS), their susceptibility to flystrike on the body should be correspondingly low, even when challenged with high levels of endophyte. Ewe and ram lambs were sourced from two lines, one selected for resistance (n = 85) and the other for susceptibility (n = 143) to ryegrass staggers. A further group of lambs (n = 63) produced by intercrossing the two lines was included. The lambs were run in 2 mobs, on high and low endophyte pasture, and monitored daily for signs of flystrike on the body. During the course of the experiment, susceptible (n = 34) and resistant (n = 1) lambs suffering from clinical ryegrass staggers had to be removed from the high endophyte pasture. These were excluded from the analysis. Ram lambs made up the majority of animals removed. Only ram lambs were flystruck on the body, particularly around the scrotal area. Significantly more resistant ram lambs (7 of 49) were flystruck than susceptible (3 of 85) or intercross ram lambs (2 of 27), regardless of pasture endophyte level (P < 0.1). More lambs (P < 0.1) were flystruck grazing ryegrass with high endophyte (n = 9) than low endophyte (n = 3). The only lambs flystruck while grazing non-endophyte pasture were RGS resistant rams. In contrast to the hypothesis, this experiment indicates that selection of animals for resistance to RGS may exacerbate their susceptibility to flystrike. The evidence presented here supports the literature that sheep grazing high endophyte pasture are more susceptible to flystrike. The question for farmers is whether their selection priority should be for pasture with resistance to insect pests, or for stock with resistance to RGS, or both. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Young SR and Scobie DR and Morris CA and Amyes NC} } @conference {41523, title = {Justifying the appropriate length for docking lambs{\textquoteright} tails - a review of the literature}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {64}, year = {2004}, month = {Jan}, pages = {293-296}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Hamilton}, abstract = {It is generally accepted that tail docking is beneficial in farming systems where sheep are predisposed to dag formation and flystrike, but that it is a stressful procedure. Although there have been many studies of tail docking, relatively few have looked at the effects of different tail lengths. The incidence of flystrike depended on tail length, being least in medium-, and greatest in short-tail docked sheep. Short-tail docked ewes had higher rates of carcinoma of the vulva and short-tail docked lambs had a greater incidence of rectal prolapse. In some cases, increased tail length was associated with increased dags, and with longer tails crutching and shearing effort was greater. There apparently have been no studies documenting the effects of docking at different lengths on the welfare of the lamb at the time of docking, on muscle anatomy, or on defecation and urination. Furthermore, the results obtained in some studies were confounded by differences in breed (e.g. Merino) and mutilations (e.g. mulesing), which question the validity of extrapolating their conclusions to New Zealand conditions. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Fisher MW and Gregory NG and Kent JE and Scobie DR and Mellor DJ and Pollard JC} } @conference {41518, title = {Measuring short periods of wool fibre growth using radiolabelling}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {64}, year = {2004}, month = {Jan}, pages = {268-271}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Hamilton}, abstract = {Brief periods cannot be measured with traditional autoradiographic methods on wool fibres because the labelled points overlap. A dose of [35S]cysteine was injected into 24 sites across the side of five Lincoln ewes. After 48 hours a second injection was administered to one site on each ewe, followed by an injection into another site every two hours until all 24 sites had been labelled twice. Three days later all 24 sites were injected again. Following autoradiography the distance between radiolabelled points was traced using a digitizer (50 fibres per site). A linear increase in length between points 1 and 2 was observed between sites (r2 = 0.920) and the regression equation showed the fibre increased in length by 29.2 {\textmu}m per site (P < 0.01). However, a linear decrease in length was observed down (P < 0.001) but not along (P = 0.813) the midside over the period delineated by injections 1 and 3. Removing the effect of site gave growth rates that reflected the overall mean of 28.9 {\textmu}m/hour for all sites. This method could be used to determine changes in growth rate over a few hours or the response to a growth factor, hormone or nutrient over a time course of several hours. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR} } @conference {41448, title = {Maintaining product quality from the farm gate to the processing facility}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {63}, year = {2003}, month = {Jan}, pages = {237-242}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Queenstown}, abstract = {There is substantial evidence that pre-slaughter events (mustering and holding in yards, transport, lairage and preslaughter handling) have negative effects on product quality through bruising, hide damage and muscle pH. To minimise these negative effects, use of deer-specific, good stock handling procedures and appropriately designed facilities are essential. The duration of pre-slaughter events and human presence should be minimised. Yard pens should be appropriately sized, dark, quiet, and deer should be kept in familiar groups. Adherence to existing guidelines for transport, careful driving, and avoiding transport during hot weather are desirable. Showering deer upon arrival at the processing plant plus provision of water in lairage pens probably prevents dehydration. Conversely, showering under some conditions may add to stress and bruising damage in lairage. Research proposed to improve pre-slaughter handling includes taming and selection for tractable deer, definition of appropriate handling techniques and improved facility designs. Further work is also required to identify optimal practices for lairage, showering, washing and feeding. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Pollard JC and Littlejohn RP and Scobie DR and Pearse AJT and Stevenson-Barry JM} } @conference {41348, title = {Reduction of tail length in New Zealand sheep}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {62}, year = {2002}, month = {Jan}, pages = {195-198}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Palmerston North}, abstract = {Literature evidence revealed several sources of genes that could be used to shorten the tails of sheep. Genes from the Northern short-tail group are preferable as there are no known detrimental effects on viability. Tail length from anus to tip, divided by the distance from anus to hock and calculated as a percentage was used to correct tail length for body size differences. Adjusted tail length of the progeny was best explained by additive effects for adjusted tail length of the sire (P<0.001) and dam breed (P<0.001). A small but significant interaction was also evident (P<0.01). Mean tail length was shortest for Finnish Landrace lambs (88mm) and longest for Wiltshire x Cheviot lambs (251mm). Cheviot lambs had long tails (226mm), while various crosses between Finnish Landrace and Cheviots suggest that mean tail length will be the average of the parents. The experiment suggests inheritance of a number of genes and that it will therefore be straightforward to produce genetically-docked tails using cross breeding followed by selection and interbreeding. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and O{\textquoteright}Connell D} } @conference {41252, title = {Headlines can be Headaches}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {61}, year = {2001}, month = {Jan}, pages = {78-79}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Christchurch}, abstract = {With some alarm the author read the headline {\textquotedblleft}Scientists Boring{\textquotedblright} in Rural News in November 1997 (Keating, 1997). Fortunately for the New Zealand Society of Animal Production the page header was {\textquotedblleft}Grassland Conference{\textquotedblright}. The article, which started {\textquotedblleft}Agricultural scientists are boring the pants off dairy farmers {\textellipsis}{\textquotedblright}, gradually went further down hill explaining that {\textquotedblleft}The [Ruakura Farmers] conference was {\textquoteleft}old and outdated, inflexible and not meeting their needs. Lectures were long boring and often too theoretical{\textquoteright}{\textquotedblright}. The article{\textquoteright}s centrepiece claimed {\textquotedblleft}Farmers agreed it was better to have a good presenter talk about somebody else{\textquoteright}s research than to have a poor presentation from a good scientist.{\textquotedblright} The contracted papers that follow this introductory paper indicate steps that members could take to remedy this situation. First and foremost, the reader will note that the papers in this contract are written in layman{\textquoteright}s language, outside the guidelines for scientific writing. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR} } @conference {41259, title = {The media release}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {61}, year = {2001}, month = {Jan}, pages = {90-91}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Christchurch}, abstract = {Most important in the process of releasing many science stories is the media release. A clear and simple statement of facts in the form of a media release will reduce the errors in the final story. It provides the opportunity for input from scientists, colleagues, collaborators, managers and the all-important investors (who may not want the story or their involvement released). The media release could also be directly circulated to Members of Parliament or Ministers of the Crown, advisory committees and other scientists and non-scientists within the organisation including members of the board of directors. The help of a journalist to translate it into layman{\textquoteright}s language will also increase the chances of publication {\textellipsis} }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR} } @conference {41187, title = {The relationship between wool follicle density and fibre diameter is curvilinear}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {60}, year = {2000}, month = {Jan}, pages = {162-165}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, address = {Hamilton}, abstract = {Records for wool follicle density and wool fibre diameter were obtained from ewes (n = 787) of 13 breeds and lambs (n = 543) of eight breeds and four crossbred combinations. The data were gathered as part of nine separate experiments from seven years. Mean fibre diameter ranged between 14 and 58 {\textmu}m, while follicle density covered the range 6.5 to 95 follicles/mm2. There was a significant curvilinear relationship (P < 0.001) between individual animal means for fibre diameter and follicle density. The relationship was significantly different between ewes and lambs (P< 0.001). Furthermore, the relationship between breed means for density and diameter were compared with equivalent data from literature sources. The relationship was effectively the same for all sources of data (P = 0.455). A restricted range of data could have led some literature sources to suggest a linear relationship! }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Young SR} } @conference {41035, title = {To shear or not to shear lambs?}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {58}, year = {1998}, month = {Jan}, pages = {224-227}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {Poll Dorset x Romney cross lambs (n = 80) were allocated according to sex (ewe, ram) and liveweight to either shorn or unshorn treatments. Pelts were recovered at slaughter, processed to dyed crust leather and scored for visual traits. At the pickled pelt stage, shorn lambs exhibited lower grain strain scores in the main panel (2.4 vs 4.3, P = 0.01). Rib score (2.3 vs 1.9, P = 0.014) was greater for shorn lambs. The fat score of ewe skins was higher (2.6 vs 1.9, P<0.001) and they produced thicker leathers (0.85 vs 0.79 mm, P = 0.025) with more delamination (2.6 vs 2.2, P = 0.004). While shearing risks scarring the pelt, there are trade-offs with other faults in the pelts of shorn or unshorn lambs. The decision on whether to shear lambs or not should be based on the relative costs of the faults. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Bray AR and Cooper SM} } @conference {40892, title = {Bulk and fibre diameter affect leather and woolskin quality of lamb skins}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {57}, year = {1997}, month = {Jan}, pages = {77-80}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {Poll Dorset x Romney lambs were chosen from a group of 300 on the basis of measured diameter and bulk. The selected lambs made up four groups of twenty, that had the four possible combinations of low (LD) or high diameter (HD) (29 or 32 um), and low (LB) or high bulk (HB) (22 or 26 cm{\textthreesuperior}/g). Pelts were recovered at slaughter, assessed for woolskin tanning, processed to dyed crust leather and scored for the grain surface defect known as pinhole (1 to 5, best to worst). Suitability for woolskins was greatest for the high bulk groups (LDHB, 20; HDHB, 18), and least for the HDLB group (5), with the LDLB group intermediate (13). More pelts were found to exhibit pinhole in the high bulk groups (HDHB, 16; LDHB, 16 vs HDLB, 8; LDLB,10) and mean pinhole scores were higher (p <0.001) for these groups (HDHB, 2.5; LDHB, 2.4, vs LDLB, 1.7; HDLB, 1.5). Woolskins are a more appropriate product for finer and bulkier wool types, whereas less bulky wools of high diameter lend themselves to leather production, because they are unsuitable for woolskins and less prone to pinhole. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Cooper SM and Passman A and Young SR} } @conference {40895, title = {The ethically improved sheep concept.}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {57}, year = {1997}, month = {Jan}, pages = {84-87}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {The need to improve animal welfare and reduce chemical residues to maintain the competitive position of our sheep products is unquestionable. However sheep producers perceive that the required actions are in conflict with production, so there have been few recent changes which allay consumer concerns. This paper discusses possibilities for producing more attractive products without substantial reductions in production or increases in costs. It identifies gene pools that should be exploited to develop a polled sheep with a short tail, that is devoid of wool on the head, legs, belly and breech. It reviews evidence that shows such animals require less handling and chemical treatment, and produce more lambs. It is proposed that these traits be accumulated into "Ethically Improved Sheep". The concept of ethically improved sheep is not presented as a prescribed combination of breeds. There are a number of breed sources of each trait, and other traits should be introduced as they become available or important in the future. This would permanently reduce the need for husbandry practices that emulate the same effects, thus reducing input costs, pre-empting any bans and forestalling any trade barriers based on current husbandry practices. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Bray AR and O{\textquoteright}Connell D} } @conference {40885, title = {Growing wool in tissue culture - which sheep breed is best?}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {57}, year = {1997}, month = {Jan}, pages = {48-50}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {Individual wool follicles were isolated from adult sheep and maintained in tissue culture for three days. Follicles from Merino, Poll Dorset and Suffolk animals were classified as fine wool types and were compared with follicles from Romney, English Leicester and Drysdale animals which were termed a coarser wool type. There were significant differences in both follicle survival and the rate of fibre growth between coarse and fine follicle types maintained in vitro. Only 48\% of follicles from animals with fine fibre types survived in tissue culture. In contrast, 84\% of follicles from coarse fibre types remained viable in vitro (P<0.01). The fibre growth rates of viable follicles was also significantly different between fibre types (P<0.01). Follicles isolated from animals classified as fine fibre types had a fibre growth rate of 108 {\textpm} 16um per day compared with 170 {\textpm} 12um per day fibre growth by animals with coarser fibre types. In vitro fibre growth by animals with large, straight follicles such as those from the English Leicester and Drysdale animals was greatest and a high proportion remained viable. Furthermore, follicles from these animals were easy to isolate relative to finer fibre types. Dissection of finer follicles was considerably more difficult, due to the decreased follicle size, curvature and high follicle density; factors which may be responsible for their reduced viability in vitro. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Winder LM and Scobie DR and Bickerstaffe R} } @conference {40887, title = {Volume measurement of wool samples.}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {57}, year = {1997}, month = {Jan}, pages = {57-60}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {A rapid procedure for measuring the volume of wool samples was developed, using a gas pycnometer. Volume was measured on midside wool samples, harvested monthly, from thirteen sheep breeds representing a range of wool medullation categories. Clean sample weights between two and ten grams and the fourth sequential volume measurement are recommended. Volume was also calculated, using the sample mass and the theoretical density of wool. Measured and calculated volumes were the same for non-medullated wools (p=0.20), but not for highly medullated wools, the measured volume was 25\% greater than the calculated volume (p<0.001). }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Merrick NC and Scobie DR} } @conference {40661, title = {Staple tenacity versus staple strength}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {55}, year = {1995}, month = {Jan}, pages = {39-41}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {Six nutritional regimes were applied to 134 Friesian heifers to determine the effects of differential rearing on productive and reproductive performance. Cycling animals were identified at 11.5 and 15 months by measuring progesterone in consecutive weekly blood plasma samples. Heifers were synchronised using CIDR devices and artificially inseminated for two cycles, followed by six weeks of natural mating. At 11.5 months, 95\% of the high (268 kg LW), 65\% of the medium (242 kg LW), and 2\% of the low (186 kg LW) nutrition groups were cycling. At 15 months, all heifers in the four high groups were cycling compared to only 82\% of heifers in the two low groups was probably enhanced by the CIDR progesterone treatment stimulating puberty in non-cycling heifers. Friesian heifers should average 300 kg to ensure all animals are cycling normally prior to the start of mating. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Merrick NC and Bray AR} } @conference {40666, title = {Wool growth responses in Drysdale and high and low staple tenacity Romney sheep to nutrient supplementation in autumn}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {55}, year = {1995}, month = {Jan}, pages = {54-57}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {With the increasing sensitivity towards the use of growth promoters in animal husbandry, the search is on for }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Bray AR and Merrick NC and Smith MC and Scobie DR} } @conference {40588, title = {Comparison of methods for measuring fibre diameter of Romney Wool}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {54}, year = {1994}, month = {Jan}, pages = {155-158}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {Wool from lines of Romney sheep selected on the basis of staple strength was measured for mean fibre diameter using both the airflow apparatus and an Optical Fibre Diameter Analyser (OFDA). For wool from "low strength" and "control" selection lines, airflow measurements tended to be upwardly biased in relation to the OFDA measurements, while for wool from the "high strength" line the airflow measurements tended to be downwardly biased. Two sources of bias are known in the literature, medullation and standard deviation. In this work the latter seemed to be more important, which may be a consequence of the relatively low level of medullation present in these wools (8.6\%). For research work the OFDA is put forward as the preferred instrument. }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Merrick NC and Saville DJ} } @conference {40517, title = {Seasonal and between sheep differences in medullation of wool fibres}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {53}, year = {1993}, month = {Jan}, pages = {319-322}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {Two experimental flocks of Romney sheep selected for increased hogget fleece weight show high selection responses (30-40\% of their controls) and evidence for altered seasonal patterns of annual wool growth, in line with published evidence from other flocks. While a preliminary experiment was unable to detect consistently significant line differences in plasma prolactin concentration at set time periods, there were indications of altered seasonal patterns in prolactin concentration and line differences in its association with wool growth. Both selection and control lines showed low prolactin concentrations in June and July (16 ng/ml). Concentrations rose in August, September and October, approximately doubling each month to an average level of 111 ng/ml in early November. Early results from this longitudinal study, still in progress, suggest that animals from the selected lines tended to maintain their low prolactin concentrations longer into the winter and early spring, and that this tendency is associated with a higher hogget fleece weight. By contrast, in the unselected control lines, high hogget fleece weight tended to be positively associated with increasing prolactin levels over the winter/early spring period.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Woods JL and Baird DB} } @conference {40436, title = {The reduction of cell division rate in wool follicles by noradrenaline}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {52}, year = {1992}, month = {Jan}, pages = {297-298}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {A field trial at Flock House over a three year period (July 1989 - March 1992) compared the performance of grazing bulls alone at three stocking rates (3.0, 3.7 and 4.5 bulls/ha) with grazing bulls at 3.0 bulls/ha with an increasing stocking rate of goats (3, 7 and 13 Angora does/ha). The respective stocking rates in stock units (su/ha) for the six respective treatments from bulls alone at increasing stocking rate to bulls with goats at increasing stocking rate of goats were 15, 19, 23, 18, 21 and 26 su/ha respectively. Weaner bulls were brought onto the farmlets in November each year and all rising 2 year bulls were sold off the farmlets over January to April at 18-21 months of age. Bull growth rates were significantly depressed by increasing the stocking rate of bulls but were unaffected by an increasing stocking rate of does. Bulls in the bull/goat treatment at 26 su/ha grew at a similar rate of bulls but were unaffected by an increasing stocking rate of does. Bulls in the bull/goat treatment at 26 su/ha grew at a similar rate to bulls alone, stocked at 15 su/ha. Goat performance; kidding, kid fleece weight and doe fleece weight were not affected by goat stocking rate. However at the high doe stocking rate, kid liveweight at weaning and doe liveweight (March) was reduced (P<0.01 and P<0.05 respectively). Stocking rate treatments had little effect on the economic farm surplus (variation between $680/ha for the least profitable to $730/ha for the most profitable treatments). However with a more buoyant mohair market and a more robust/productive strain of Angora goat ie. the Zimbabwe Angora, it is assumed that bull/goat system would be more profitable than bulls alone. Although goats were not complementary to bull beef production they were also not competitive with bulls over the stocking rates investigated.}, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Hynd PI and Setchell BP} } @conference {40429, title = {A review implicating a two compartment model for the processes of cell division and differentiation in the Wool Follicle}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, volume = {52}, year = {1992}, month = {Jan}, pages = {265-272}, publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production}, abstract = {The effects of injecting GnRH at mating and of single vs multiple matings on the conception rate in alpacas were investigated in two experiments. In Experiment 1, 33 low liveweight (48.4 }, issn = {1176-5283}, author = {Scobie DR and Woods JL} }