@article {3672,
	title = {Deer seasonal growth pathways},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {82},
	year = {2022},
	month = {01/2022},
	pages = {50-56},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {Red deer are seasonal and generally experience a period of low growth in winter. Previous research has demonstrated that individuals vary in the degree of their seasonality. Mechanisms that drive the differences in seasonality are not well understood. Six sires paired by 12-month weight estimated Breeding Value (eBV) but with contrasting seasonality were used to generate progeny to investigate the mechanisms that influence seasonal growth. Progeny were fed ad-lib on pasture year-round to allow expression of genetic potential with liveweight monitored fortnightly. Feed intake and efficiency were estimated during a 10-day period in each season. Analysis of seasonal liveweight gains indicated that predicted seasonal growth rates were repeatable within sire lines. Significant differences within paired sire lines in growth rates were expressed during winter for the two lower 12-month weight eBV paired groupings. Winter intakes were estimated to be lower than spring intakes although absolute values were considerably higher than expected. Variations in estimated feed efficiency between sire-line pairings were significant in all seasons apart from summer however, more research is required to correlate this estimation technique against actual feed efficiency. This research demonstrated that variation in the degree of seasonality between sires does exist and could be exploited for management decisions.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Thompson BR and Stevens DR and Ward JF and Dodds KG and Asher GW}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Genome-wide association studies for milk traits in New Zealand dairy sheep},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {82},
	year = {2022},
	month = {01/2022},
	pages = {64-68},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {The New Zealand dairy sheep industry has grown markedly in the last decades. With better genetics and management, companies have been able to improve key production traits. This study aimed to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with milk traits in dairy sheep. We performed genome-wide association (GWA) analyses for milk yield, fat and protein content using data from commercial farms. We used 54,698 milk yield records and 24,891 fat and protein records from 4,590 and 2,823 ewes, respectively. Phenotypes were collected between August 2018 and April 2021 across three locations in New Zealand. They were adjusted for flock, age, lactation, lambing date, weeks in milk and permanent environment. Animals were genotyped with commercial SNP chips with 13,759 markers available after quality control. GWA models included the genomic relationship matrix, three principal components and genomic inflation correction for the p-values. We found four genome-wide significant associations for milk yield. These variants were mapped to eight genes, PDZRN4 (intron), EDEM2, PROCR, MMP24 (intron), EIF6, FAM83C, UQCC1, and HDAC9 (intron). Of these, PDZRN4, HDAC9 and MMP24 were associated with milk traits in previous studies. No significant associations were found for fat and protein content. Genes shown here are promising candidate genes, requiring validation in independent samples.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Costilla R and Chan PB and Mcrae KM and McEwan JC and Dodds KG and Newman SA and Baird HJ and Henry H}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Genomic evaluations of sheep in New Zealand},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {81},
	year = {2021},
	month = {01/2022},
	pages = {106-111},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {Many New Zealand equine owners/stud managers rely on body condition to adjust feed supply for weight management, rather than objective weigh scales. This cohort observational study examined the inter-relationship of pasture supply with monthly BCS and live weight (LW) in three groups (n = 7, 8, 9) of grazing-horses of median 6/9 BCS (range 4-8). Dry-matter (DM) intake was estimated from weekly pasture mass (using rising-plate meter), monthly pasture cuts, and fortnightly LW records. Total pasture DM at the start of grazing ranged from 559 to 3511 kg DM/ha, and grazed lawns (nutritive areas) ranged from 364 to 2601 kg DM/ha. Total estimated DM offered (including hay when offered) ranged from 1.46 to 26.37 kg DM/horse/day (0.3\% to 5.3\% of horses LW). Within-horse maximum monthly gains and losses were 8\% LW and -13\% LW respectively. Median monthly BCS change was 0/9 (range -2/9 to 1/9). There was no significant association between monthly changes in LW and BCS, indicating BCS may lack the sensitivity to manage weight. During periods of reduced DMI (below estimated maintenance) there were no significant decreases in LW or BCS. These data implied that the horses may have altered transit time to improve the relative digestibility of the limited feed on offer.

Keywords: horse; weight; body condition score; pasture; intake},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Lee AM and Newman S-AN and Dodds KG and Nilforooshan MA and Auvray B and McIntyre S and Campbell D}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Optimising a panel of single nucleotide polymorphisms for genomic prediction in New Zealand sheep},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {81},
	year = {2021},
	month = {01/2022},
	pages = {117-121},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {A national genetic evaluation called the New Zealand Genetic Evaluation (NZGE) is undertaken weekly to support the genetic improvement of sheep via selective breeding in New Zealand (NZ). This is based on single step genomic best linear unbiased predictions (ssGBLUP), which allows animals that have genotypes and pedigree, or just pedigree, to be included in the same analysis (or evaluation). In theory, an optimal strategy is that the density and quality of SNPs used should be high enough to track all the haplotypes segregating in the population to be evaluated. Since genomic predictions have been used in NZ sheep, the content of the SNP panel used has decreased to a panel of 41K; despite that there are new SNP panels with more content available.. The effect of using this additional content and additional SNPs from an Ovine 600K chip was investigated using the trait fleece weight at 12-months. We found that a high density panel provided more accurate predictions. However, a SNP panel based on the 50K SNPs plus a relatively small subset of additional SNPs (e.g. from the 600K Chip), were as predictive as using the high density panel. We conclude that increased SNP density, beyond the 41K selected from the Ovine 50K SNP, chip will improve prediction accuracy. Our results suggest that the inclusion of SNPs from putative quantitative trait loci (QTL) may also improve prediction accuracy. However, further analyses will be helpful to distinguish the relative benefit to accuracy of increased SNP density across the genome and/or inclusion of SNPs associated with QTL.


Keywords: sheep, genetics, genomics, breeding, ssGBLUP, genomic prediction},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Lee AM and Dodds KG and Newman S-AN and Campbell D and Clarke SM}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Sheep divergently selected for methane yield showed differences in meat fatty acid composition},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {81},
	year = {2021},
	month = {01/2022},
	pages = {173-178},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {The purpose of this work was to investigate whether 18-month-old rams from the methane selection lines differed in their levels of soft tissue depth over the 12th rib (GR, as a proxy of carcass fatness) intramuscular fat (IMF), and the fatty acid composition of IMF. The rumen is the site of microbial biohydrogenation of consumed plant fatty acids and synthesis of unique microbial body fatty acids. It is known that there are differences in the microbiome and fermentation characteristics of sheep selected for and against methane production (methane selection lines). When comparing the high and low lines several differences were found. Rams from low-methane-yield-selection lines tended to have lower GR (P<0.06) than those from high line rams, but there was no evidence for a difference in levels of IMF between the lines (P=0.77). There were, however, many significant differences in the fatty acid composition (as a \% of total fatty acids) of the IMF between the lines. The IMF from the low-methane-yield line had a significantly (P<0.05) higher proportion of branched-chain fatty acids, and fatty acids that are associated with the early stages of the biohydrogenation pathways in the rumen, specifically conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and C18:1 t11 but with less C18:0 stearic acid (the end product of biohydrogenation) and a significantly higher proportion of C16:1 t9 which is produced through β-oxidation of C18:1 t11. These results provide insight into how differences in sheep from the methane-yield selection line may influence the fatty acid composition of their fat.


Keywords: Methane; sheep; intramuscular fat; fatty acid composition},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {PL Johnson and Agnew M and Jonker A and Hickey SM and McEwan JC and Bryson B and Dodds KG and Rowe SJ}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Genetic parameters of GreenshellTM mussel traits under two harvest seasons},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {78},
	year = {2018},
	month = {07/2018},
	pages = {66-70},
	address = {Lincoln},
	abstract = {Greenshell{\texttrademark} mussels (GSM) are a mollusc endemic to New Zealand and are of economic importance to the New Zealand
aquaculture industry. The primary focus of the GSM industry is selection for increased meat weight, however, aesthetics also
influence marketability. This study focused on pedigree-based estimation of heritabilities and genetic correlations among GSM
traits collected during two harvest seasons: standard and winter. Sizes and weights were highly heritable (0.41{\textpm}0.07 to 0.92{\textpm}0.09),
and highly genetically correlated across traits and seasons (>=0.75{\textpm}0.07). Meat cover and gonad scores (measures of visual appeal)
had lower heritabilities than did size and yield traits (0.08{\textpm}0.03-0.25{\textpm}0.05). Under standard conditions, meat cover had a high
genetic correlation with gonad condition scores (0.85{\textpm}0.04). Under winter conditions the relationship between meat cover and
gonad scores was negative (-0.52{\textpm}0.19). Substantial GxE was observed across seasons (meat cover: rg=-0.58{\textpm}0.16; gonad:
rg=0.62{\textpm}0.11). Progress made from genetic selection to increase meat yield while controlling for the size may be slow, so selecting
for traits related to visual appeal may be preferable. Given that production traits are genetically similar across harvest conditions,
selection within standard conditions is likely to improve performance in both standard and winter harvests, thereby allowing for
an extended harvest period. However, the genetic improvement of visual appeal of the mussels is likely to be influenced by target
harvest season.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Hess AS and Dodds KG and Roberts RD and King N and Symonds J and Clarke SM}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {Calf and heifer development and the onset of puberty in dairy cows with divergent genetic merit for fertility},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {77},
	year = {2017},
	month = {06/2017},
	pages = {205-210},
	address = {Rotorua},
	abstract = {A research herd with divergent genetic merit for fertility was established to better understand the underlying drivers of fertility in dairy cattle. This paper describes the establishment of this herd, heifer growth and development, and the effect of divergence in fertility breeding value (FBV) on the timing of puberty. The average FBV of the high and low fertility groups of heifers was +5.6 and -4.6, respectively. The heifers were weighed fortnightly, with body condition score (BCS) and stature recorded at six, nine, 12 and 15 months of age. Weight and age at puberty were defined as the first day when plasma progesterone was >1 ng/ml in two of three consecutive once weekly samples. There was no effect of FBV on live weight (LWT), BCS, nor stature by age as the heifers matured. High-fertility heifers attained puberty at a lighter LWT (271 vs. 296 kg; SED 4.3 kg), an earlier age (358 vs. 379 days; SED 6.0 days) and a lower proportion of estimated mature LWT (51 vs. 55\%; SED 0.7\%), compared with Low-fertility heifers. Therefore, the premise that high genetic merit for fertility is positively associated with reaching puberty earlier is supported. Further work is required to support and assess the value of incorporating a puberty trait into the FBV.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Meier S and Fisher B and Eketone K and McNaughton LR and Amer PR and Beatson P and Bryant JR and Dodds KG and Spelman R and Roche JR and Burke CR}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Preliminary estimates of genetic parameters for adult dag scores in New Zealand sheep and their relationship with juvenile measurements},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {76},
	year = {2016},
	month = {07/2016},
	pages = {144-145},
	address = {Adelaide},
	abstract = {The accumulation of faecal material around the breech
area of sheep (dags) is of interest to the New Zealand
sheep industry for a variety of reasons, including financial
penalties for presenting animals with dags at slaughter,
reduced wool value, increased risk of flystrike and the
labour cost associated with dagging both lambs and adult
ewes (Pickering et al. 2012). Currently, dag scores at
both three (DAG3) and eight (DAG8) months of age are
routinely measured, and analysed in Sheep Improvement
Limited (SIL). However, there are currently no formally
published estimates of the genetic relationship between dag
score as a lamb and dag score as an adult (DAGA) in the
New Zealand sheep population. Adult dag score has been
found to be highly repeatable between 12 months to two
years of age (R = 0.42) and between two and three years of
age (R = 0.44) in different strains of Merino sheep (Larsen
et al. 1995).
Currently within SIL, the estimated breeding values
(EBVs) calculated from DAG8 measures are reported
as the adult dag score EBVs. There are now, however,
multiple flocks recording adult dag score in the SIL
database. An analysis of the correlation of adult dag score
with DAG8 and DAG3 would confirm if the current SIL
model is appropriate for reporting adult dag EBVs, or if the
model needs revising to include adult dag measures and its
correlations with DAG3 and DAG8.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Mcrae KM and Dodds KG and Newman S-AN and Brito LF and Pickering NK and McEwan JC}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Developing genomic tools in the New Zealand Deer Industry},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {91-93},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Rowe SJ and Clarke SM and Van Stijn TC and Hyndman DL and Ward JF and McEwan KM and Dodds KG and McEwan JC and Newman S-AN and Asher GW}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Genetic control of the rumen microbiome in sheep},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {67-69},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Rowe SJ and Kittelmann S and Pinares-Pati{\~n}o CS and Wood GR and Dodds KG and Kirk MR and Ganesh S and Hickey SM and Janssen PH and McEwan JC}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Genetic parameters for growth, carcass and meat quality traits in New Zealand sheep},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {94-96},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Brito LF and Miller SP and Clarke SM and Dodds KG and Bain WE and Lee MA and Pickering NK and McEwan JC}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Genetic parameters for meat traits assessed in the Headwaters New Zealand Progeny Test},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {111-113},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {PL Johnson and Charteris A and Tate ML and Dodds KG}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Intake of ewe lambs is influenced by the dry matter percentage of the feed consumed},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	address = {Dunedin},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {PL Johnson and Miller SP and Knowler K and Bryson B and Dodds KG}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Modelling liveweight change to inform residual feed intake models in growing lambs},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {225-227},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {PL Johnson and Miller SP and Knowler K and Bryson B and Dodds KG}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {Contract session: Application of genetic technologies to the New Zealand sheep industry},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {184-187},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Jopson NB and Linscott EM and Young MJ and Dodds KG and Clarke SM and Rowe SJ and Byrne TJ and Alder GF}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {Genetic parameters for meat yield and quality traits derived from the New Zealand Perendale progeny test},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {106-110},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { A catch phrase within animal genetics is that there is as much variation within a breed as there is between breeds. The New
Zealand Perendale Progeny Test has been conducted on North and South Island sites since 2010 with the aim of investigating
genetic variability for carcass traits. A total of 51 sires, from 27 studs have been assessed, with sires selected from the top 20\% of
the Perendale across-flock Dual Purpose Index SIL evaluation. Within each year/site lambs generated were born within a week
(ewes naturally synchronised pre-mating), and slaughtered on the same day. A total of 2318 male progeny have been generated
and slaughtered through Alliance with traits measured including weight traits, carcass dimensions, VIAscan{\textregistered} traits, carcass pH,
carcass fat colour and, in some years, colour stability of chilled aged loins, subjective marbling score and meat tenderness.
Genetic parameters were estimated with ASREML; carcass weight was fitted as a co-variate for carcass traits (excluding carcass
weight). The heritability estimates for all traits were moderate to high, with the lowest of 0.22 {\textpm} 0.07 for VIAscan{\textregistered} GR, and
the highest, for pH, of 0.44 {\textpm} 0.09, with the majority between 0.22 and 0.43. The high estimate for slaughter plant measured pH
was supported by the 0.59 {\textpm} 0.17 estimate for pH measured in the laboratory on those samples which were measured for colour
stability. The phenotypic correlations between traits were generally well estimated with small standard errors for the majority
of trait combinations. The genetic correlations were not as well estimated with standard errors greater than 0.10 for most traits
combinations, but despite the large standard errors some were still significant, and in general agreement with values the literature.
The progeny test has therefore demonstrated significant genetic variability for the range of carcass traits assessed in this study
within the Perendale breed.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {PL Johnson and Young EA and Russenklau D and Anderson T and Dodds KG}
}
@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 {3678,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: An evaluation of the sensory traits of venison},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {74},
	year = {2014},
	month = {06/2014},
	pages = {226-228},
	address = {Napier},
	abstract = {New Zealand venison is a well-regarded export product in Europe and quality is a key philosophy of the deer industry. As production targets increase understanding consumer preferences is important to ensure the eating quality of venison is maintained alongside these goals. Using data available from the Deer Progeny Test (Ward et al. 2014) this study aims to assess the quality of data from a sensory evaluation and investigate relationships between sensory traits and the overall acceptability of venison...},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Mathias-Davis HC and Ward JF and Dodds KG and Everett-Hincks JM and Maclennan G}
}
@conference {79026,
	title = {Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) feed conversion efficiency: evaluation and potential for selection},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {72},
	year = {2012},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {227-230},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Christchurch},
	abstract = {Improving performance through selective breeding is a key priority for the New Zealand Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) aquaculture industry. The family selective breeding programme operated by The New Zealand King Salmon Company has successfully improved growth and quality after six generations of selection. However, feed conversion efficiency is not currently a direct breeding goal. Research was established to analyse daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio, a measure of feed efficiency, in 160 families over two spawning year classes. Daily feed intake assessment methodology employing digital X-radiography was validated and used to obtain repeated measurements of daily feed intake. Measurements of growth, and feed conversion ratio up to harvest size were also obtained. Genetic parameter estimates for daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio indicated that there are family differences for these traits. As a result the continued measurement of feed conversion ratio in The New Zealand King Salmon families and incorporation of the traits into The New Zealand King Salmon breeding programme is being considered.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Walker SP and Ingram M and J Bailey and Dodds KG and Fisher PJ and Amer PR and Symonds JE}
}
@conference {79017,
	title = {Estimates of genetic parameters for flystrike in New Zealand Romney and Romney cross sheep},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {72},
	year = {2012},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {189-191},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Christchurch},
	abstract = {<p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: ARIAL;">Myiasis, or flystrike, is a major animal welfare problem for sheep that causes significant production losses and potentially death. It is estimated that the prevalence of flystrike is 3-5\% in the national flock (Heath \&amp; Bishop 1995) and is estimated to cost the New Zealand industry $40 to $50 million annually (Beef + Lamb New Zealand 1999). These costs accrue via production losses through reduced wool and body growth, morbidity, and control strategy costs including insecticide, lamb shearing and crutching. ... continued</span></p>
},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Pickering NK and Dodds KG and Blair HT and Hickson RE and PL Johnson and McEwan JC}
}
@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 {75918,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Genomic selection in the New Zealand Sheep industry using the Ovine SNP50 Beadchip},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {71},
	year = {2011},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {263-265},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Invercargill},
	abstract = {The Illumina OvineSNP50 BeadChip is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarray targeting 54,241 evenly spaced SNPs on the sheep genome, developed by Illumina in collaboration with AgResearch, Baylor, UCSC, CSIRO, and the USDA as part of the International Sheep Genomics Consortium. It was used to genotype key... Continued},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Auvray B and Dodds KG and McEwan JC}
}
@conference {75909,
	title = {Is rumen retention time implicated in sheep differences in methane emission?},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {71},
	year = {2011},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {219-222},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Invercargill},
	abstract = {Breeding ruminants for low methane (CH4) emissions is an attractive mitigation approach for this greenhouse gas. During the last three years research has progressed at AgResearch to accurately identify individual sheep with contrasting low (Low) and high (High) methane yields. A study was conducted using these animal resources in order to explore the animal factors responsible for the observed differences between rankings. For this, the sheep were fed first on fresh pasture forage (pasture) and then on pellets containing lucerne hay and wheat grain (pellet). Methane emissions were measured in respiration chambers over two consecutive days. Feed dry matter digestibility (DMD) was estimated from a total faecal collection, whereas ruminal retention times of feed particles (PRRT) and solutes (SRRT) were estimated by single dosing of external markers. Methane yields from the High sheep were higher (P >0.05) than from their Low counterparts both the pasture and pellet diets. High emission ranking sheep had higher (P <0.05) DMD and SRRT than their Low counterparts, whereas PRRT was only numerically higher for the High sheep than for the Low sheep. Results of this study align with previous findings that retention time of digesta is implicated in animal differences in CH4 emission.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Pinares-Pati{\~n}o CS and Ebrahimi SH and McEwan JC and Dodds KG and Clark H and Luo D}
}
@conference {60980,
	title = {Genetic parameters for colour stability of chilled lamb : Brief Communication},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {69},
	year = {2009},
	month = {Jun},
	pages = {220-222},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Christchurch},
	abstract = {An increasing proportion of New Zealand lamb meat is shipped to the European Union market as chilled rather than frozen product, with 29\% exported as chilled product in 2005/06 (Meat and Wool New Zealand, 2006). New Zealand{\textquoteright}s lamb export markets are located such that the chilled product travels large geographical distances via freighted shipping, taking six to twelve weeks to reach the destination. Once chilled lambs arrives at its destination it is further processed and packaged to specification for retail sale. Shelf life and colour stability are particularly important for this... Continued },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {McLean NJ and PL Johnson and Bain WE and Greer GJ and Dodds KG}
}
@conference {42048,
	title = {Artificial insemination success rates for Meat and Wool New Zealand central progeny test sires},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {68},
	year = {2008},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {77-78},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Brisbane, Australia},
	abstract = {National progeny testing schemes have become important components of national sheep genetic improvement programmes in Australia, France, and New Zealand (Fogarty et al., 2002; Bib{\'e} et al., 2002; Campbell et al., 2005). In 2001 the Alliance Central Progeny Test was established, this was combined in 2005 with the Elite Lamb Progeny Test to become the Meat and Wool New Zealand Central Progeny Test (CPT). Over the past six seasons, a total of 120 leading industry sires, comprising 14 different breeds, have been mated via artificial insemination. CPT rams are genetically connected via common sires ...Continued },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {McLean NJ and Dodds KG and Knowler KJ and Jopson NB and Behrent M and Logan CM and Muir PD and Shackell GH and McEwan JC}
}
@conference {41785,
	title = {Effect of MyoMAX on carcass lean and fat},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {68},
	year = {2008},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {43-44},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Brisbane, Australia},
	abstract = {Previous research has identified quantitative trait loci (QTL) for increased lean meat yield and decreased fat in similar regions of sheep chromosome 2, in New Zealand and Belgian Texels (Broad et al., 2000; Johnson et al., 2005; Laville et al., 2004; Marcq et al., 2002). In the case of the Belgian Texels it has been demonstrated that a single G to A transition ...Continued },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Bain WE and PL Johnson and Greer GJ and Dodds KG and McLean NJ and McLaren RJ and Galloway SM and Van Stijn TC and McEwan JC}
}
@conference {41782,
	title = {SNiP and cut: Quantifying the potential benefits of genomic selection tools for genetic fault elimination in sheep},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {68},
	year = {2008},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {33-36},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Brisbane, Australia},
	abstract = {Whole genome single nucleotide polymorphism marker (SNP) technologies are rapidly being developed and could well play a role in the future selection of farmed animals. In sheep, work is being carried out to identify SNP{\textquoteleft}s associated with economically important production traits and disease resistance. Stud sheep breeders routinely cull up to 30\% of lambs born due to a variety of faults. Despite this culling pressure, the faults keep occurring, suggesting low heritability, recessive inheritance or incomplete penetration of fault causing genes. The objective of this paper was to identify the potential of SNP fault detection and elimination in sheep. Simulation was used to predict changes in gene frequencies and in an index of genetic merit of production traits over time when between two and 30 SNPs were used to aid selection. The SNPs are assumed to predict the presence of deleterious recessive genes. As selection pressure applied to individual or combination SNPs increased, the rate of increase in production trait genetic merit slowed down. Thus, a balance would be required between the emphasis on SNPs actively used to select against genetic faults, relative to emphasis on genetic merit. This work identified scope for substantial economic benefits from application of SNP technology for removal of faults to both stud breeders and commercial sheep farmers. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Sise JA and Auvray B and Dodds KG and Amer PR}
}
@conference {41701,
	title = {Parturition duration and birthing difficulty in twin and triplet lambs},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {67},
	year = {2007},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {55-60},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Wanaka},
	abstract = {The primary objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between parturition duration, localised oedema in lambs (as determined by post mortem findings) and lamb survival. Parturition behaviour was recorded for 131 mixed age Coopworth ewes and their 303 lambs (twins n=180; triplets n=123). Twin lambs and first born triplet lambs that did not survive tothree weeks of age took at least twice as long to be born than lambs that survived (P<0.05). The duration of parturition for lambs that died and had moderate to severe subcutaneous oedema was more than three times longer than for those that had none and minor localised subcutaneous oedema at post mortem examination (P<0.05). Further research is required to understand the factors contributing to prolonged parturition for twins and triplets. This information is needed so that appropriate management techniques and animal breeding programmes can be developed to reduce birthing difficulties (dystocia) and lamb mortality rates.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Everett-Hincks JM and Dodds KG and Kerslake JI}
}
@conference {41973,
	title = {Prospects for genome wide selection in the New Zealand livestock industries},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {67},
	year = {2007},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {162-168},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Wanaka},
	abstract = {A number of DNA marker applications aid genetic selection within subpopulations of New Zealand{\textquoteright}s livestock farming industries. Advances in genomic tools have opened the possibility of genotyping individuals for a large set of markers, enough to have a large proportion of the genome {\textquoteleft}tagged{\textquoteright} with at least one of these markers. This creates opportunities for genome wide selection (GWS) {\textendash} the selection of breeding animals based on very large numbers of marker genotypes. There are a number of requirements for GWS to work, including the existence of genotyping technology to provide genotypes at a sufficient density, tractable statistical methods for estimating marker  effects to use in prediction models and suitably phenotyped populations which when genotyped allow estimation of relationships between markers and traits. Additional phenotyped populations are required to validate their predictive ability and demonstrate economic benefits to breeders and to the commercial tier. A high density genotyping platform is available for cattle, but may need further developments. Plans are underway for a similar platform for sheep, but not for deer. The dairy industry is well placed to implement GWS, as there is a large bank of DNA samples of industry sires representing most of the genome variation present. Genotyping these animals will allow marker effects to be estimated and the reduced generation interval arising from selecting young sires should easily overcome any decrease in selection accuracy compared with progeny testing. Industry structures are likely to evolve to allow a return to entities undertaking GWS. GWS will be mostbeneficial for traits with low heritability, that cannot be measured on selected parents and/or that are expensive to measure. Genes of known effect may continue to be accounted for individually, particularly if they exhibit non-additive effects.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Dodds KG and Amer PR and Spelman RJ and Archer JA and Auvray B}
}
@conference {41433,
	title = {Lack of genetic association of markers near the leptin gene with carcass fat content in Coopworth sheep lines selected for and against fatness},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {63},
	year = {2003},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {176-178},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Queenstown},
	abstract = {Leptin is an important hormone in controlling food intake and energy expenditure in mammalian species. The present study evaluated levels of serum leptin in Coopworth sheep selected for and against subcutaneous fat depth for 10 generations. Significant differences in serum leptin concentrations were found between fat and lean sheep (P<0.05) and between male and female sheep (P<0.01). Serum leptin concentration was positively correlated with carcass fatness and there was a clear relationship between mean progeny serum leptin concentrations and the breeding value for fat. Serum leptin concentrations were greater (P<0.05) in lambs selected from the fat line (2.69ng/ml) than in lambs selected from the lean line (2.18ng/ml). A microsatellite marker, OarCP26, already mapped on sheep chromosome 4 (OAR4) was located in a sheep yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) clone that was positive for the leptin gene (LEP). This confirmed the independent assignment of LEP, mapped using a sheep cell hybrid panel, to OAR4. No significant differences in the allele frequencies of OarCP26 and two other flanking markers (TGLA116 and OarHH335) were detected in the lean and fat selection lines suggesting genes other than leptin are causing the differences in fat between the lean and fat Coopworth lines. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Campbell AW and Broad TE and Jopson NB and Burkin HR and Dodds KG and Veenvliet BA and Bain WE}
}
@conference {41239,
	title = {Optimal utilization of genetic resources in aquaculture},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {61},
	year = {2001},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {35-37},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Christchurch},
	abstract = {This paper uses a vertically integrated salmon farming company as a case study to describe how quantitative genetics  and decision support optimisation tools have been used in an aquaculture breeding programme. The complex tasks of  maximising genetic progress while managing genetic diversity and avoiding inbreeding are considered at two levels. The  first level relates to the management of a nucleus breeding structure for which long term genetic progress and management  of genetic diversity are the primary objectives. The second level relates to the tactical selection among available broodstock  candidates and their mating to avoid inbreeding. The importance of both effective data management systems and practical implementation of theoretical genetic principles is emphasised.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Amer PR and Jopson NB and Dodds KG and Symonds JE and Hills J}
}
@conference {41263,
	title = {The search for quantitative trait loci affecting wool colour},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {61},
	year = {2001},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {104-108},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Christchurch},
	abstract = {Farmers have been attempting to breed whiter wool for some time using quantitative and subjective genetic selection based on phenotypic traits. The improvement of wool colour using this form of selection has achieved limited success. The advent of DNA marker maps has introduced the possibility of more directly relating phenotypic and genetic variation. Work presented here has identified a total of ten potential quantitative trait loci (QTL) that are significant at the suggestive level, and one additional QTL that approached this significance threshold that influence wool colour. There have been five putative QTL identified for base colour or challenge colour brightness. Two QTL affecting challenge colour yellowness was identified, while three QTL identified were linked to predictive colour variation. An additional QTL that affected predictive colour has also been mapped to a non-specific location on chromosome 24. Several further key areas of research need to be addressed before the DNA markers can be developed for use in the improvement of wool colour. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {McKenzie GW and Maher AP and Dodds KG and Beattie AE and Henry HM and Hickford JGH and Montgomery GW}
}
@conference {41156,
	title = {Lamb and ewe performance of East Friesian x Coopworths relative to pure-bred Coopworths},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {60},
	year = {2000},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {47-50},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Hamilton},
	abstract = {Purebred East Friesians (EF) sires were used in both the 1996 and 1998 matings (n=2 and 4, respectively) to generate 62 and 66 progeny for the two years. These animals were compared with approximately 1000 COOP lambs in each year for growth, ultrasonic fat and muscle depths, wool, dagginess, host resistance to internal parasites, and reproductive performance. For the 1998 mating, one F1 sire and 24 F1 dams were mated to COOP ewes and rams respectively to produce approximately 73 paternal and 33 maternal backcross progeny. Twenty four EF cross ewes were mated in each of the 1998 and 1999 birth years, and reproductive performance recorded. On average, the EF cross progeny had a live weight advantage (P0.05) after adjustment for live weight, but EF cross progeny had significantly lower C and GR measurements. EF cross progeny had lower fleece weight at 12 months (-0.46kg; P<0.001) than COOP. Average dag score differed between sire breeds with EF cross having lower scores (0.4 verses 1.2) compared to COOP. Sire breed differences in resistance to parasites were not significant. Analysis of the limited EF backcross data indicated positive EF direct and maternal effects for weaning weight, negative EF direct effects for dag scores, and negative EF direct and maternal effects for fleece weight. EF cross ewes performed significantly better (P<0.001) in lambs born per ewe lambing than the purebred COOP for both 2-tooth (2.57 cf. 1.84) and mixed-age (2.76 cf. 1.98) classes. The high lambing percentage in EF cross ewes meant that more than 70\% of mixed-age ewes had three or more lambs per lambing, which could result in management difficulties. There was significant overlap in the sire-breed ranges for all traits, meaning selection of sire was more important than breed selection. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Jopson NB and Dodds KG and Knowler KJ and Wheeler R and McEwan JC}
}
@conference {41196,
	title = {The Sheep Improvement Limited (SIL) genetic engine},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {60},
	year = {2000},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {195-197},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Hamilton},
	abstract = {The Sheep Improvement Limited (SIL) genetic engine (GE) interfaces with the SIL national database. It calculates breeding values from data provided by the database and reports these back to the database along with adjusted deviations and genetic trends graphs. The SIL system is a distributed and modular design, with the database and the GE located on separate computers connected via the Internet. The individual GE components are also modular and version 2 consists of 6 separate goal trait modules: growth, meat, wool, reproduction, survival and host resistance to internal parasites. This modular design allows each goal trait module to be easily upgraded and additional modules can be added as required. The GE uses across flock and year multivariate animal model BLUP. Evaluations can be requested as required by the user via Internet access to the database. The size of the job submitted scales transparently up to requests involving more than 200,000 animals, sufficient for the largest across flock sire referencing schemes. The intention is that the system will be continuously extended and improved. Near term developments are likely to extend to across breed analyses, the inclusion of a facial eczema module, and improved diagnostics. In the longer term it is anticipated that information from genetic markers will be included. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Newman SA and Dodds KG and Clarke JN and Garrick DJ and McEwan JC}
}
@conference {41062,
	title = {Effect of recipient breeds on birth and weaning weight, and wool follicle characteristics of Merino lambs born by embryo transfer},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {59},
	year = {1999},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {19-22},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {One hundred and eighty three embryos were collected from 29 donor Merino ewes and transferred as either a single or twins to Merino (MR), Coopworth (CR) and Romney (RR) recipient dams. A total of 107 lambs were weaned from these implants. A control group (MN) of 24 naturally conceived single and twin lambs were included for comparison. Follicle fibre diameters at birth were 16.7, 17.2, 17.7 and 17.6 mm (SED 0.4) for MN, MR, CR and RR respectively; while the fibre diameter of wool samples at birth for all dam groups was 16.5 mm (SED 0.3). Follicle fibre diameters at weaning were 16.5mm, 15.9, 16.3 and 16.1 (SED 0.6) for MN, MR, CR and RR respectively while the corresponding wool FDs at weaning were 16.3 mm, 16.1, 16.0, and 16.0 (SED 0.4). Weaning weight was similar in CR and RR, while CR weaned significantly heavier lambs than Merinos (recipients or naturally bred). The results suggest that crossbred dams improve weaning weights of Merino lambs born to embryo transfer but do not affect their wool follicle character-istics.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and Aspinall J and Harrison T}
}
@conference {41064,
	title = {Effect of selection for fleece weight on liveweight, reproductive performance and wool characteristics in mixed age Romney ewes},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {59},
	year = {1999},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {27-29},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {This paper presents the analysis of 3525 annual production records of mixed age Romney ewes in a fleece weight selected (HF) or control (RC) flock over 11 years. HF ewes were significantly (P<0.001) heavier than RC ewes for autumn live weight (8\%), winter live weight (9\%), spring live weight (7\%), greasy fleece weight (20\%) and clean fleece weight (19\%). Small but significant (P<0.01) flock differences were found for fibre diameter and yellowness. HF fleeces were coarser and more yellow than RC fleeces. HF ewes were significantly (P<0.01) higher than RC for ovulation rate (1.80 vs 1.73 SED 0.03), number of lambs born/ewes lambed (1.63 vs 1.56 SED 0.02), and number of multiple births/ewes lambed (60\% vs 54\% SED 2\%), but lower (P<0.01) for number of lambs weaned/lambs born (0.84 vs 0.88 SED 0.01). The results indicate that single trait selection for fleece weight enhances greasy and clean fleece weights, live weight and ovulation rate, with an associated increase in FD and yellowness of their fleeces. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and Turner PR and Wheeler R}
}
@conference {41089,
	title = {Field data analysis of lamb survival and mortality rates occurring between pregnancy scanning and weaning},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {59},
	year = {1999},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {98-100},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Ultrasonic scanning for pregnancy diagnosis in commercial sheep flocks has highlighted the magnitude of lamb loss from scanning to docking or weaning. From seven ram breeding flocks in Landcorp Farming Limited, lamb survival rates were derived from the number of lambs per ewe present at six stages: pregnancy scanning, birth, born alive, 48h after birth, end of lambing and weaning. Differences in lamb survival rates between adjacent stages provided the mortality rates for five intervals: pregnancy scanning-birth; birth-born alive; born alive-48h after birth; 48h after birth-end of lambing; end of lambing-weaning. Flock-year affected lamb survival rate at all stages (P<0.001) but varied with ewe age and lamb birth/rearing rank (P<0.001). Mean lamb survival rates for 3- and 4-year-old dams were generally higher than those of other dam age groups. Triplet-reared lambs had consistently lower survival rates than single- or twin-reared lambs (P<0.001). Lamb mortality rates for the five intervals were 0.03, 0.08, 0.03, 0.03 and 0.04 lambs per potential lamb at scanning, respectively. Lamb mortality was highest at birth, with lower survival rate of triplet-born lambs compared with single- and twin-born lambs (0.82{\textpm}0.006 vs 0.93{\textpm}0.004 and 0.93{\textpm}0.002 lambs per potential lamb respectively; P<0.001). The results indicated when, and to what extent, lamb losses occurred in the field between pregnancy scanning and weaning, and the importance of applying appropriate ewe/lamb feeding and management policies to minimise lamb mortality rates. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Nicoll GB and Dodds KG and Alderton MJ}
}
@conference {41016,
	title = {Cost-benefit analysis of commercial use of the Inverdale prolificacy gene},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {58},
	year = {1998},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {157-160},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {The Inverdale prolificacy gene is one of several potential major genes currently being explored for commercial application to the New Zealand sheep industry. We calculated economic benefits of two strategies to breed Inverdale carrier stud rams using gene flow methodology. Strategy 1 involves continuous transition matings from a conventional stud flock to generate Inverdale carrier ewes while Inverdale carrier ewes are self replacing in Strategy 2. Strategy 1 involved less DNA testing per ram sold, resulting in a $140 saving in testing costs at $50 per test. Reduction in conventional genetic response was also lower for Strategy 1 (<5\% as opposed to 24\% for Strategy 2) although Strategy 1 requires closer monitoring of animal identification and some Inverdale rams must be kept to produce carrier ewes. Commercial Inverdale use was shown to be highly beneficial in an existing terminal sire mating system with an added value over a normal ram of $3350 per Inverdale ram purchased. This was also highly cost effective with an expected DNA test price of $50 to $75 per sheep genotyped. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Amer PR and McEwan JC and Dodds KG and Davis GH}
}
@conference {41055,
	title = {Effects of sire and body site on wool colour measurements in Romney x Perendale progeny},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {58},
	year = {1998},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {294-297},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Six Romney rams were selected, three for "Bright" and three for "Yellow" wool, using estimates of breeding values for base wool colour. Six hundred Perendale ewes were randomly allocated to these rams in a single sire groups and joined for one mating cycle. Female progeny (n=280) were identified and grazed in one mob until weaning then split into two, one on Invermay and the other on Woodlands. Shoulder wool strip samples were collected at 3, 9, 12 months of age, two-tooth and as 2 year old ewes. The wool characteristics of yield, fibre diameter, resistance to compression and tristimulus colours were measured. No significant sire effect was found for tristimulus Y values at any sampling interval. A significant (P<0.05) tristimulus Y-Z difference was found for two tooth fleeces in progeny of Yellow sires compared with Bright (5.3 vs. 4.4 SED 0.4). Belly and back site wool was significantly (P<0.05) more yellow (Y-Z 7.8 and 6.1) than other body sites, belly wool was also lower (P<0.05) for brightness (Y 47.9) than other sites. The most significant source of variation in tristimulus Y and Y-Z values was contributed by body regions of fleece, emphasising the importance of effective skirting of fleeces. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and Turner PR and Wheeler R}
}
@conference {41052,
	title = {Mature Merino ewe production performance in an ultrafine fibre diameter selected and a control flock},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {58},
	year = {1998},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {284-287},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Mature Merino ewe data (1988 to 1995) from 1407 ultrafine (UF) fibre diameter selected and 249 random controls (CF) totalling 3213 and 765 records respectively were analysed. Mean fibre diameter (FD) was significantly (P<0.001) lower in UF compared with CF (17.7 mm vs. 20.0 SED 0.04). Mean FD decreased in UF adult ewes by 0.16 um ({\textpm}0.02) per year relative to CF. There were no differences for autumn live weight but UF was significantly lower for spring live weight (P<0.05) and fleece weight (P<0.01) and higher for fleece yield (P<0.01) than CF. There were significant (P<0.001) age effects for all of these traits. For those ewes born during the project (1990-1994), the number of lambs born per ewe was slightly higher for CF than UF (1.17 vs. 1.14 SED 0.04) but not significant. CF wool had greater tensile strength, bulk and yellow but lower crimp frequency (all P<0.01) than UF wool. Selection for ultrafine wool in Merino sheep has shown FD was significantly reduced without negative effect on liveweight and reproduction. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and Turner PR}
}
@conference {41046,
	title = {Wool follicle traits of half Merino half Romney F1 , and backcross three-quarters Merino quarter Romney gene mapping flocks},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {58},
	year = {1998},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {262-265},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Wool follicle traits and mean fibre diameter (MFD) of {\textonehalf} Merino {\textonehalf} Romney F{\textonesuperior} (MR), and {\textthreequarters} Merino {\textonequarter} Romney backcross (MRM) were compared. Skin and midside samples were collected from 25 ewes and rams of MR and 420 MRM progeny. MRM was lower than MR for MFD by 3.0 mm, follicle fibre area (FFA) by 162.4 mm{\texttwosuperior}, and diameter (FFD) by 4.1 mm, but greater for total follicle density (DEN) by 21.7 mm-2 , primary density (PD) by 0.8 mm-2 , and secondary to primary ratio (SPR) by 4.8 units. Most traits had significant differences (P<0.05) for birth year, breed and sire group, but only PD and SPR were significant for sex and birth/rearing rank. FFD was positively correlated (P<0.001) with MFD (r = 0.22), and the relationship had a common slope of 0.7, but intercepts were significantly different (P<0.01) across birth years (i.e. 13.5, 12.0, and 10.9 mm for born 1991, 1992, and 1993). },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Andrews RN and Beattie AE and Dodds KG and Wuliji T and Montgomery GW}
}
@conference {40891,
	title = {Classing Merino fleeces into uniform lines with predicted adult fibre diameters.},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {57},
	year = {1997},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {73-76},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {The effectiveness of 3 wool classing methods, to separate fleeces into uniform lines of different mean fibre diameter (MFD) and to maximise net financial returns were compared. The methods were predictive (i.e. uses hogget MFD), objective (i.e. adult MFD) and subjective (i.e. visual). A flock of mixed-age Merino ewes, (n = 2,640; adult MFD = 19.9 {\textpm} SD 1.3 um) were randomly drafted into predictive, objective and subjective groups for midside sampling and measurement of adult MFD pre-shearing. Predicted MFD was calculated from the correlation of hogget with adult MFD. MFD of grab-samples of lines were, predictive 20.0 um, objective 20.1 um, and subjective 19.9 um. The \% CV of fibre diameter of grab-samples of objective lines was 0.4 and 0.9 less than predictive and subjective respectively. For a range of prices, premiums for the fine edge of the clip were generally insufficient to cover objective measurement costs. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Andrews RN and Land JTJ and Dodds KG and Wuliji T}
}
@conference {40879,
	title = {Effect of the Inverdale gene (Fec X) on fleece characteristics in Romney sheep},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {57},
	year = {1997},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {29-32},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {The effect of the Inverdale gene (FecX) on wool production traits was measured in a trial where Romney carrier rams (I) were crossed and backcrossed with high fleece weight-selected (HF) Romney ewes, and Romney non-carrier rams (+) with unselected (RC) Romney ewes. The trial generated 248 female progeny in five genotype subgroups: non-carrier (++){\textonehalf}RC and {\textonequarter}RC; heterozygous (I+){\textonehalf}HF and {\textonequarter}HF; and homozygous (II) {\textonequarter}HF. The live weight, fleece weight, wool characteristics and reproductive performance of these genotype subgroups were compared, and from corresponding genotype subgroups of male progeny (n = 307) were also evaluated for early growth and fleece traits. No differences were found for birth, hogget shearing and two-tooth live weights among genotypes. Greasy fleece weight was significantly (P<0.05) higher for I+{\textonehalf}HF ewes shorn as lambs (9\%), hoggets (8\%) and two-tooths (10\%) compared with ++{\textonehalf}RC. The important wool characteristics of yield, fibre diameter, bulk, staple length and staple crimp did not differ significantly between genotypes. The ovulation rate (combining subgroups with the same Inverdale genotype) was significantly (P<0.05) higher for I+ (2.3) than ++ (1.5) progeny (SED: 0.3). The results suggest that introgression of FecXI into fleece weight selection flocks will improve prolificacy in these flocks while ensuring high fleece weight. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Davis GH and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and Wheeler R and Turner PR}
}
@conference {40864,
	title = {Factors influencing induced oestrus in the ewe at the start of the breeding season},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {56},
	year = {1996},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {381},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {The objectives of this study were to monitor the physiological events associated with decreasing liveweight in Bos indicusheifers and to determine the characteristics which best predicted the onset of nutritional anoestrus. Eleven post-pubertal Brahman heifers received a diet resulting in a liveweight loss of 0.7 kg/day. Changes in ovarian morphology were monitored using daily transrectal ultrasonography. Liveweight was recorded twice weekly. Heifers became anoestrus after 98 {\textpm} 9 days, following a decrease in liveweight of 68.6 {\textpm} 4.9 kg, equivalent to 21.5 {\textpm} 1.5\% of initial weight. At this time, maximum diameters of ovulatory follicles and corpora lutea (CL) had decreased by 16.7 {\textpm} 3.9\% and 23.7 {\textpm} 3.1\%, respectively. Onset of anoestrus was best predicted by liveweight and maximum diameter of CL when expressed as proportions of initial liveweight and size of CL. The percentage decreases in liveweight and maximum diameter of CL to give a 50\% probability of anoestrus were 21.0\% (95\% confidence interval = (17.7, 27.4)) and 23.0\% (16.7, 37.0), respectively.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Fenton LS and Shackell GH and Ramsay ML and Dodds KG and Reid PJ and McLeod BJ}
}
@conference {40739,
	title = {Discovery of the Inverdale gene (FecX)},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {55},
	year = {1995},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {289-290},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Selection for ovulation rate in a screened prolific flock  identified a prolific family of Romneys in 1984 that descended from one  ewe, and progeny tests for her male descendants carried out from 1985 to  1990 indicated the presence of a major gene (Inverdale) on the X-  chromosome. One copy of the gene increases ovulation rate by about 1.0  and litter size by about 0.6. However, research in 1991 found that ewes  with two copies of the gene have small non-functional {\textquoteright}streak{\textquoteright} ovaries  and are infertile. Many of these infertile ewes develop tumour-like  structures on their ovaries and these are currently the subject of  intensive research.    In 1993 a prolific Romney flock in Tokoroa, with no known connection  with A281, was also found to have the Inverdale gene. The place of the  Inverdale gene in industry will be to increase prolificacy in ewe flocks  mated to terminal sires, and a research programme has been established  to identify a genetic market for ram breeders.   },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Davis GH and McEwan JC and Fennessy PF and Dodds KG}
}
@conference {40740,
	title = {Elucidation of the genetic nature of the Inverdale gene (FecX): Segregation with a twist},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {55},
	year = {1995},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {291-293},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {A major gene, affecting a quantitative trait in farmed livestock,  is usually detected by observing segregation of the gene within families  such as half-sib sire families. In the case of the Inverdale, a  maternal family was observed to contain some highly prolific ewes.  Progeny testing of four rams from this family revealed two rams with  prolific progeny, but segregation amongst these progeny was not  apparent. The data appeared to be consistent with the hypothesis of an  X-linked major gene, but were not conclusive. A further progeny test  involving six sons and five maternal grandsons of a putative Inverdale  ram was undertaken. Three of the maternal grandsons but no sons had  prolific daughters, confirming the X-linked hypothesis. Further major  gene searches should consider X-linked as well as other modes of  inheritance. The mode of inheritance, and effect of one and two copies  of the Inverdale gene, have important consequences for its use in  research and production.   },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Dodds KG and Davis GH and McEwan JC and Fennessy PF}
}
@conference {40737,
	title = {Establishing a flock for gene mapping in wool traits},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {55},
	year = {1995},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {285-288},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {A gene mapping flock for wool traits was established by backcrossing  of Merino cross Romney (F1) to both parental breeds. The objectives for  this flock were to investigate the segregation of wool and skin characteristics  in crosses between the Merino and Romney and to investigate methods for  the analysis of genetic markers and quantitative trait loci. Analysis of  Merino backcross animals showed no evidence of major genes segregating  for any of the wool traits studied. The analysis estimated a finite number of  genes affecting fibre diameter and bulk. A genetic marker study of these  family groups may provide more powerful analysis for the presence of genes  affecting wool traits that may be segregating in these crosses.  },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Montgomery GM and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and Beattie AE and Turner PR and Rogers J}
}
@conference {40743,
	title = {Industry use of the Inverdale gene (FecX)},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {55},
	year = {1995},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {298-300},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {The Inverdale gene (FecX) offers the sheep industry the potential  to markedly increase production at little cost. However, the  characteristics of the gene mean that appropriate breeding structures  are essential. The recommended structure is a stratified crossbreeding  system. The three tier breeding structure consists of: (1) a ram  breeder producing rams known to carry the Inverdale gene; (2) a ewe  breeder producing carrier ewes by mating carrier rams across dual  purpose breed ewes; and (3) a lamb producer who mates a meat breed ram  with carrier ewes to produce lambs for slaughter. Some farmers may  choose to have two, or all three tiers on a single property. If the  gene was used to maximum extent possible in Romney and Romney derived  breeds, some 40\% of all breeding ewes would contain a single copy of the  gene and these would produce 31\% more lambs for sale per ewe mated.  Conservative estimates of the benefits to the New Zealand farmer are  approximately $29m per annum.   },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {McEwan JC and Davis GH and Fennessy PF and Dodds KG}
}
@conference {40736,
	title = {MOET in ultrafine Merinos: An experimental evaluation},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {55},
	year = {1995},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {281-284},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Results of experimental MOET programme in elite ewes selected from  within an ultrafine Merino flock are presented. Of the treated ewes, 60\%  provided transferable donors with a mean of 16.7 ovulations and 10.4  embryos recovered, 7.8 embryos transferred, 3.9 lambs born and 3.1 lambs  weaned per donor ewe. The wool produced by hoggets from this elite  embryo transfer group was 0.9 um (P0.01) finer than that from their  contemporaries in the ultrafine selection flock and 2.5 um (P0.01) finer than  a random Merino control group. The improvement in fibre diameter was  better than expected from the selection differentials, but not significantly so.   The h2 estimates for liveweight, clean fleece weight, fibre diameter and yield  in three flocks of fine woolled Merinos were 0.50, 0.32, 0.39 and 0.58  respectively. The MOET programme was successfully applied to increase  the number of progeny from elite ultrafine Merino ewes.  },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Aspinall J and Land JTJ and Shackell GH and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and Rogers J}
}
@conference {40525,
	title = {Comparison of seasonal wool growth pattern and colour variation in fleece weight selected and control Romney flocks},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {53},
	year = {1993},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {351-354},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Two trials were conducted to assess the effect of kiwifruit vinegar on a number of production parameters in sheep. Trial A evaluated the effect of kiwifruit vinegar (8.2g/100ml, as acetic acid) on lamb liveweight gain, fleece production (midside growth rate, yield and colour), and internal parasite burdens. Trial B evaluated the effect of kiwifruit vinegar on two-tooth liveweight change prior to mating, and subsequent fertility. In trial A 138 ewe lambs were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups: i) "Extender 100" Albendazole drench capsule + 10 ml vinegar, ii) "Extender 100" Albendazole drench capsule only; iii) normal drenching (trigger level 1500 epg) + 10 ml vinegar, iv) normal drenching. The only trait for which there was strong evidence of an effect was wool yield which decreased in response to kiwifruit vinegar. Vinegar treated lambs tended to have reduced faecal egg counts during the period of the trial. In trial B 140 two-tooth ewes were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: i) 15 ml vinegar administered at 12, 8, 4 and 1 weeks prior to mating; ii) control. Reproductive status was assessed by ultrasound 38 days after removal of the ram. No significant differences were found in liveweight or in reproductive status between the group groups. Evidence from these two trials would suggest that any effect of kiwifruit vinegar on performance traits in sheep is small and not necessarily beneficial.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Weatherall IL and Andrews RN and Dodds KG and Turner P and Wheeler R}
}
@conference {40528,
	title = {How reliable are sheep pedigrees?},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {53},
	year = {1993},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {363-370},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Ligand blotting analysis of serum from the horse using radiolabelled IGF-I revealed a protein at 96 kDa which was not present in serum from goat, cow, sheep, deer or donkey. These latter species all displayed five labelled bands in the range 24 to 41 kDa. Conversely these were only weakly labelled in serum from the horse. Size exclusion chromatography of horse serum pre- incubated with radiolabelled IGF-I revealed reduced binding in the 130 kDa peak compared with goat plasma and ligand blotting analysis indicated that 96 kDa protein was present in this peak. The 96 kDa protein from horse serum binds IGF-I and IGF- II specifically and appears to be unique to this species.  The nature of this protein is at present unknown.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Crawford AM and Tate ML and McEwan JC and Kumaramanickavel G and McEwan KM and Dodds KG and Swarbrick PA and Thomson P}
}
@conference {40526,
	title = {Investigation into the possibility of a major gene for fleece weight in screened sires},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {53},
	year = {1993},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {355-358},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {This study investigated the effect of a progesterone containing intravaginal CIDR (Controlled Internal Drug Releasing) device on plasma progesterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations during 14-day device insertion and the subsequent oestrous cycle of fallow deer (Dama dama). Blood samples were collected from 4 entire does at 20 minute intervals for periods of 8-12h on three occasions following device insertion (i.e. insertion, mid-treatment and withdrawal) and on Days 0, 5, 12 and 19 of the subsequent oestrous cycle. Plasma was analysed for progesterone and LH concentrations by radioimmunoassay. Plasma progesterone values were elevated (>6 ng/ml) and LH values reduced (<1 ng/ml) during device insertion relative to pre-insertion values. Plasma LH concentrations were highest on Day 0 of the oestrous cycle, with a marked increase in the pulse amplitude.  One doe exhibited a pre-ovulatory LH surge. Plasma progesterone increased from <0.5 ng/ml on Day 0 to 1.5-4.2 ng/ml on Day 12 (luteal phase) and high amplitude progesterone pulses were exhibited by all does on Day 19 (onset of luteolysis). The study has demonstrated that CIDR devices deliver sufficient progesterone to inhibit ovulation and the declining plasma LH concentrations during device insertion support a hypothesis of negative feedback by progesterone on LH secretion.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Dodds KG and Fennessy PF and Andrews RN and McEwan JC and Turner P and Wheeler R and Hawker H}
}
@conference {40415,
	title = {Comparison of growth, hogget fleece weight and reproductive traits of three sheep breeds from a flock selected for prolificacy and a Romney control flock},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {52},
	year = {1992},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {211-216},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {The total glucose concentration of a medium changes with the  extent of serum supplementation, and this may have an effect on  embryonic development in vitro. In this study, 1- and 2-cell sheep  embryos (N+109) were cultured for approximately 120 hours at 39 C under  humidified 5\% CO2, 5\%)2 and 90\% N2 in Synthetic Oviduct Fluid medium  (SOF) supplemented with 20\% human serum and a total glucose concentration  of either 1.5 mM (modified-SOF) or 2.3 mM (unmodified-SOF). A slight  effect was observed on the proportion of embryos developing to at least  the expanded blastocyst stage (63\% and 48\% for modified-SOF and  unmodified-SOF, respectively, P<0.1). Twenty-eight blastocysts from  each treatment were selected and transferred to 28 synchronised, mature  ewes (2 blastocysts per ewe). Pregnancy and number of foetuses were  determined by ultrasonography 54 days after transfer. All ewes were  pregnant and survival of embryos was 82\% and 71\% for modified-SOF and  SOF, respectively. However, a high post-natal mortality rate was  observed (37\%), which was mostly attributed to a relatively high  birthweight of dead lambs (6.4 },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {McEwan JC and Davis GH and Dodds KG and Fennessy PF and Clarke JN and Bruce GD and Hishon MG}
}
@conference {40434,
	title = {Fibre production, shearing procedure and fleece characteristics of alpacas farmed in New Zealand},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {52},
	year = {1992},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {289-292},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Five treatment groups of 40 fine Merino wethers were offered grazing regimes over 2 treatment periods, to achieve a range of liveweight profiles.  The first was from 16 October 1990 to 21 December 1990 while the second continued until 29 August 1991. Treatment period 1 generated significant differences in liveweight (P<0.001) between all groups and thereafter the sheep were grazed in 2 larger mobs consisting of groups 1-3 and 4 and 5. By the end of the first period liveweights were 48},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Davis GH and Andrews RN and Turner P and Moore GH and Dodds KG}
}
@conference {40421,
	title = {Reproductive performance and liveweight in Romney sheep selected for fleece weight and a control flock},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {52},
	year = {1992},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {237-240},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Genetic and nutritional factors that cause marked changes in  wool growth influence the content (},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and Turner P and Wheeler R}
}
@conference {40398,
	title = {The use of protein polymorphism and DNA fingerprinting to solve complex pedigree problems in deer - Brief Communication},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {52},
	year = {1992},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {143-144},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {In a study of seasonality of reproduction, 4 pubertal red deer  hinds were monitored for live weight and plasma hormone concentrations  from December 1987 to October 1988 (i.e. 12-22 months of age). On 7  occasions blood samples were collected every 20 minutes for 4 h to  monitor secretion of luteinising hormone (LH) and response to an i.v.  injection of 2 },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Tate ML and Dodds KG and McEwan KM and Buchanan FC and Swarbrick PA}
}
@conference {40340,
	title = {Fleece production responses to Merino fine wool index selection},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {51},
	year = {1991},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {353-358},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Two N.Z. sets of phenotypic and genetic parameters were used to  compare expected genetic responses from index selection for an economic  breeding objective favouring the lean and penalising the fat content of  lamb carcasses. The effect of different economic values for lean  relative to fat were examined over the range corresponding to the  {\textquoteright}biological{\textquoteright} objectives, weight-adjusted fat and lean growth rate.  Particular attention was given to the magnitude and direction of  responses in lean and fat. Increasing the economic emphasis on lean  relative to fat progressively increased the lean response but was  associated with an increasing fat response in an undesirable direction.  Different measures of carcass fatness varied in their ability to  discriminate among genes affecting fat and lean differentially when  included in a selection index along with growth rate, and were superior  to eye muscle depth. Good estimates of the relative economic values are  required for derivation of optimum selection strategies, especially if  indexes of low discriminating power are to be used for selection.  },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Dodds KG and Land JTJ}
}
@conference {40247,
	title = {Comparison of growth and carcass traits of ram lambs of three breeds from a flock screened for prolificacy and a Romney control flock},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {50},
	year = {1990},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {397-402},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {This paper reviews the application of intraruminal chromium   controlled release capsules (CRC, Captec (NZ) Ltd, Auckland) to the   measurement of herbage intake in ruminants. The capsules are designed   to provide for the linear release of Cr2O3 over c. 25 days in sheep and   c. 20 days in cattle. Uniform release of Cr2O3 is achieved 2 to 3 days   after oral administration of the CRC but steady state levels of Cr2O3 in   the faeces are usually not achieved until day 7 or 8 in sheep and day 5   or 6 in cattle. Where cross-over or multiple feeding level experimental   designs are applied, time should be allowed for Cr2O3 to adjust to a new   steady state in the faeces before sampling for each new treatment. The   period of time required varies from 3 to more than 5 days depending on   the size of feed intake change. The continuous mode of marker release   in the rumen reduces diurnal variation of Cr2O3 in the faeces and this   allows rectal sampling regimens to be applied at different times of each   sampling day. Sward sampling of faeces reduced disturbance of animal   grazing to a minimal level since Cr2O3 is delivered by a single CRC   application. The effects of level of feed intake and feed type on the   rate of Cr2O3 release are usually small, but release rates may be up to   13\% lower in rumen-fistulated than in non-fistulated animals and may   differ for capsules of the same time applied to different ruminant   species. Reduced animal handling, flexible faecal sampling times and   lower labour requirements with CRC technology, compared to daily   drenching of Cr2O3, enable the number of experimental animals to be   increased. This improves the likelihood of detecting differences in   mean intake between groups. Intakes of individual animals will not be   reliably estimated with chromic oxide CRC until the digestibility of   herbage consumed by individual animals can be measured more accurately.    },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {McEwan JC and Davis GH and Dodds KG and Fennessy PF and Clarke JN and Hishon M}
}
@conference {40232,
	title = {Fleece weight and wool characteristics of Merino ewes screened into a superfine selection flock},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {50},
	year = {1990},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {301-304},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {One hundred and eighty cashmere wethers were divided into 11   treatment groups with 9 groups receiving a single melatonin implant at   various dates staggered 6 weeks apart throughout the year commencing on   22 January 1988 and finishing on 22 December 1988. The tenth group   received a melatonin implant at each of the treatment dates. The   control group received no implant. Down lengths were collected at 1 to   6 weekly intervals to monitor growth patterns.     The continuous melatonin treatment resulted in lower peak down lengths   than controls in August while down lengths were higher than controls   from October to January. However the period of down growth was   unchanged.     Shedding of down occurred 19 weeks after melatonin treatment in all   groups except those treated on 15 April, 7 July and 18 August where the   interval to shedding was shorter and in phase with the natural shedding   cycle. Cashmere growth was only initiated following melatonin treatment   from 18 August to 22 December. Treatment on 10 November increased   cashmere production by 32 \%. This was the only treatment which   increased cashmere production harvested in one season.    },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wuliji T and Land JTJ and Andrews RN and Dodds KG}
}
@conference {40233,
	title = {Wool production and other characteristics of progeny from high performance Coopworths x Romney rams},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {50},
	year = {1990},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {305-310},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Masked by the short-term influences of under or over-production   at national level, concerns about the quality and hygiene of animal   products and fears regarding dietary influences on human health, long-   term projections of what will be expected of the pastoral animal   industries are difficult to make. Concerns about the welfare of animals   in intensive systems coupled with the political changes taking place in   Russia and Eastern Europe are likely to swing animal production more   towards pastoral systems. The removal of large quantities of fat from   the food chain is likely to become a permanent feature. So too is the   trend for a more even flow of high-quality products on to the market.   In meeting these goals the role of the current biotechnological   revolution, both directly in primary animal production, and indirectly   through its contribution to the animal-product and food-processing   industries, will be essential. We can not afford intellectual   scientific complacency in a world where famine could, however remotely,   become a truly global phenomenon. It is against this background that   those aspects of the pastoral animal industries that currently limit   production are viewed and the opportunities for implementing new   technologies outlined.     },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Andrews RN and Dodds KG and McEwan JC and Wuliji T}
}
@conference {40119,
	title = {Production and characteristics of wool from the hogget progeny of sheep intensively screened for fleece weight},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {48},
	year = {1988},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {207-212},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Dairy farmers made management decisions each season about which cow to replace. At present dairy farmers can use the production index. The production index is an historical measurement of a cow{\textquoteright}s milkfat production ranking, free from the influences of herd environment, age, stage of lactation and herd genetic level. A dynamic programming method is outlined which incorporates genetic, reproductive and economic information. This method ranks cows on their annualised present value. A sensitivity analysis was undertaken and the effects of the changes in the different economic parameters are discussed. The optimal cow rankings produced by the dynamic programming method were shown to be robust to changes in milkfat, manufacturing beef and heifer replacement prices and interest rate.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Hawker H and Dodds KG and Andrews RN and McEwan JC}
}
