Sheep Production Research Articles

Seasonal anestrus of sheep flocks

Objective: To determine seasonal anestrus in relation to the season of the year, feeding type, breed, and social environment variables of sheep production systems in Singuilucan, Hidalgo, Mexico. Design/Methodology/Approach: Based on n=41 semi-structured surveys applied to the producers of the study area, a logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine the influence of the study variables on the seasonal anestrus of sheep production systems. Results: Thirty-nine production units with seasonal anestrus periods were identified. Seasonal anestrus was influenced by the season of the year, feeding type, breed, and social environment variables (P<0.05). The anestrus periods were influenced (P<0.05) by spring (season of the year), range and shed system with concentrate feeding (feeding type), wool sheep (breeds), and the presence or absence of rams in the flock (social environment). Study Limitations/Implications: Determining which variables influence seasonal anestrus will help to develop sheep reproductive programs. Findings/Conclusions: Wool sheep have a seasonal anestrus in spring. The season of the year, feeding type, breed, and social environment variables influenced the seasonal anestrus of sheep production systems in Singuilucan, Hidalgo, Mexico.

Genomic signal selection analysis reveals genes related to the lambing trait of Hotan sheep.

Lambing in ewes is a complex and crucial aspect of sheep production that directly influences economic viability and production efficiency. In the present study, we analyzed the genomes of single lamb (SLE) and twin lamb (TLE) Hotan sheep to elucidate the genetic mechanisms underlying lamb production in Hotan sheep. In this study, we used genome-wide resequencing to analyze the genomes of Hotan sheep exhibiting SLE and TLE traits. To identify the population genetic structure and linkage disequilibrium associated with SLE and TLE traits, we employed two complementary genome selection signals: the interpopulation genetic differentiation index (FST) and nucleotide diversity (Pi). Subsequently, we performed gene annotation and enrichment analyses of the selected regions of the obtained genome. Our analysis generated 801 Gb of sequence data, from which 31,864,651 high-quality single nucleotide polymorphic loci were identified. We identified 290 selected regions and 332 genes across the Hotan sheep genome by using two widely adopted selective scanning detection methods (FST statistics and Piratio). Functional annotation and enrichment analysis of these genes identified 13 genes associated with the lambing rate, which were enriched in pathways such as the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway (BMPR2, ID2, SMAD7, THBS1, and RBX1), renal cell carcinoma (PAK1, ELOC), inositol phosphate metabolism (PLCZ), non-homologous terminal junction (RAD50), ABC transporters (ABCC4), and the NET pathway (H2B, H4, and H2A). This study employed selective elimination analysis to identify candidate genes involved in the regulation of lambing trait in Hotan sheep. By investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying lambing rate in Hotan sheep, we developed molecular markers for twin lambing to enhance reproductive performance and promote the conservation and development of outstanding genetic resources in local Xinjiang sheep.

Optimizing Water Productivity through the Conjunctive Use of Borewell and Canal Water for Enhancing Sheep Productivity in Arid Climate of Western Rajasthan, India

In the arid regions of Rajasthan, water scarcity poses a significant challenge to both agriculture and livestock productivity. Sustainable practices in such climates require effective management of limited water resources. This study focuses on optimizing water productivity through the conjunctive use of canal water and borewell water to address the problem of water scarcity while maximizing output per unit of water. The experiment involved eighteen healthy lambs of aged 2-3 months which were managed intensively and divided into three groups of six lambs each based on a randomized block design. All groups were fed Pennisetum glaucum (pearl millet) and Medicago sativa (lucerne) ad-libitum along with concentrates adjusted according to their body weights. The groups were offered three types of drinking water: canal water (G1), a combination of canal and borewell water (G2) and borewell water (G3) in a clean bucket twice a day. No significant effect on total feed intake and body weight of the lambs was found based on the drinking water source. However, G1 and G2 lambs, which were offered canal water, consumed significantly (p<0.05) less water (74.4 ± 1.84 liters) compared to the lambs in G3 (81.6 ± 1.91 liters). The virtual water requirement per kilogram of weight gain, calculated from both direct water intake and indirect intake through feed was lowest in G1 lambs (5771.34 liters) followed by G2 lambs (6129.00 liters) and G3 lambs (6312.00 liters) per kilogram of weight gain, respectively. These results indicate that water productivity was highest with canal water (G1) and lowest with borewell water (G3) per kilogram of weight gain. This study underscores the importance of efficient water management in maximizing productivity and resource use efficiency in water-limited arid regions.

Bayesian Evaluation of Growth Rates and Kleiber's Ratios in Harnali Sheep: Dissecting Maternal and Additive Genetic Contributions.

Understanding the genetic basis of growth and metabolic traits in sheep is crucial for improving production efficiency and sustainability. The current study aimed to estimate the genetic influences, both direct and maternal, on growth rate and Kleiber's ratio traits in Harnali sheep using pedigree data under Bayesian inference. The data pertained to 2404 animals spanned over 24 years (1998-2021). Fixed factors such as birth period, lamb sex and dam's weight at lambing were considered. The traits studied included average daily gains (ADGs) categorised into ADG1 (birth to weaning age), ADG2 (weaning to 6 months of age) and ADG3 (6-12 months of age), as well as corresponding Kleiber's ratios (KR1, KR2 and KR3). Six single-trait animal models were employed to estimate covariance components and heritabilities, integrating direct additive and maternal effects alongside significant fixed factors using THRGIBBS1F90 and POSTGIBBSF90 programmes. Direct heritability estimates were obtained for ADG1 (0.11 ± 0.05), ADG2 (0.06 ± 0.03), ADG3 (0.03 ± 0.03), KR1 (0.07 ± 0.03), KR2 (0.06 ± 0.03) and KR3 (0.05 ± 0.03). Maternal genetic effects have contributed significant particularly to pre-weaning traits. The study identified an antagonistic relationship between direct additive and maternal genetic effects. Positive genetic and phenotypic correlations emphasised the intricate relationship between growth and metabolic efficiency in Harnali sheep. The current study offers critical insights into the genetic basis of growth and metabolic traits in Harnali sheep, ultimately contributing to more efficient and sustainable sheep production systems.

The effects of compound probiotics on production performance, rumen fermentation and microbiota of Hu sheep.

Fungal probiotics have the potential as feed additives, but less has been explored in ruminant feed up to date. This study aimed to determine the effect of compound probiotics (CPs) with Aspergillus oryzae 1, Aspergillus oryzae 2 and Candida utilis on Hu sheep's growth performance, rumen fermentation and microbiota. A total of 120 male Hu sheep, aged 2 months and with the body weight of 16.95 ± 0.65 kg were divided into 4 groups. Each group consisted of 5 replicates, with 6 sheep per replicate. Group A was the control group fed with the basal diet. Group B, C and D was supplemented with the basal diet by adding 400, 800 and 1,200 grams per ton (g/t) CPs, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for 60 days after a 10-day adaptation period. The results showed that the average daily gain (ADG) of sheep in the CPs groups were significantly higher, the feed/gain were significantly lower than those in group A in the later stage and the overall period. The addition of CPs increased the economic benefit. The levels of CD4+ and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio in the CPs groups were higher than those in Group A. The levels of GSH, IgG, IL-2, IL-6, and IFN-γ in group C were significantly elevated compared with group A. Group B showed a significant increase in rumen NH3-N and cellulase activity. There was no difference in VFAs content between group A and group B, however, with the increasing addition of CPs, the butyric acid and isobutyric acid content tended to decrease. The rumen microbiota analysis indicated that the CPs addition increased the Firmicutes and Proteobacteria abundances, decreased the Bacteroidetes abundance. The correlation analysis showed that Prevotella was negatively correlated with ADG, and the addition of 400 CPs in group B reduced Prevotella's relative abundance, indicating CPs increased sheep growth by decreasing Prevotella abundance. The CPs addition reduced caspase-3, NF-κB and TNF-α expression in liver, jejunum and rumen tissues. In conclusion, the addition of CPs increased the sheep production performance, reduced inflammation, improved rumen and intestinal health. Considering the above points and economic benefits, the optimal addition of CPs as an additive for Hu sheep is 800 g/t.

Typology of Mixed Sheep and Goat Production System in the Regional Unit of Larissa, Greece

The study was carried out using a structured questionnaire in 162 sheep and goat farms of mixed production system in the Regional Unit of Larissa during February 2020 - February 2021. The Hierarchical Cluster Analysis application has shown three basic production systems. Cluster 1 consists of medium size holdings (233.02 livestock units), which earn additional income from other activities. Cluster 2 consists of rather large size farms (1,825.66 livestock units) with a net profit per female 2.61 euros. This type of farms breed livestock based on the semi-intensive and intensive production system, have large rented areas for the cultivation of feed, while the contribution of subsidies is especially high to the shaping of their gross income. The largest percentage (59.88%) of the holdings falls under the third cluster. These are specialized types of livestock farming, which present the largest net profit per livestock animal. 4% of this type of holdings breeds animals based on the semi-nomadic system while 100% uses common pastures as feed source.

Efeito do uso da Promixalicina no controle de verminose e parâmetros sanguíneos de ovelhas

Sheep producers are increasingly looking for strategies to tackle the problem of worms in animals, as well as to improve the functioning of the animals' immune system. Therefore, two experiments were carried out, in two different properties (with high and low challenges in relation to verminosis) with the objective of, in both, evaluating the effect of using Ovine Promixalicin on OPG (Eggs per gram of Feces) and blood parameters of pregnant and non-pregnant sheep, on two different properties. The indication for use of the product is to, among others, contribute to the control of verminosis. The animals evaluated on the properties came from a pasture production system, with the use of concentrated and/or roughage supplementation if necessary. The animals used were of the Dorper, Texel, Ile de France and Sulfolk breed. The parameters evaluated were OPG, Famacha©, Body Condition Score and blood parameters (lymphocytes, leukocytes and erythrocytes). In relation to experiment one, with a low challenge in relation to worms, the use of Promyxalicin significantly helped to reduce worms and animal well-being, thus helping the herd to increase productive parameters such as weight gain and fertility. In experiment 2, a system with a high challenge in terms of verminosis, the animals remained uniform and controlled by the use of Promyxalicin, including beneficial results in relation to blood parameters, which did not increase during its use. Therefore, the use of Ovine Promixalicin does not alter the consumption of food by animals, as well as being effective in controlling verminosis, including Haemonchus contortus, Trichostrongylus colobriformis, Oesophagostomum columbianum e Strongyloides papillosus, promoting well-being and maintenance of the immune system, especially in pregnant animals, bringing benefits to the sheep production system.

Selection and genetic parameters of productivity of sheep (<i>ovis aries</i>) of the Trans-Baikal breed of the Khangil type

The study was conducted to investigate the selection and genetic parameters of productivity of fine-wool sheep of the Trans-Baikal breed of the Khangil typein order to increase the efficiency of the selection process. The relationships between the selected traits (live weight, wool yield) and the exterior and constitutional features were determined using the method of correlation and regression analysis. Of the assessed parameters, the greatest variability was observed for body weight (11.9…19.4 %), wool yield (9.9…11.1 %) and latitudinal linear measurements (8.2…12.4 %). According to the constitution indices, rams differed from ewes by greater leg length, better chest development, stronger skeleton, while ewes were characterized by a more stretched, compact and massive body with a better developed back part. Live weight and wool yield of rams were more closely associated with linear measurements than those of ewes. Live weight of both males and females correlated more strongly with chest girth (respectively +0.916, p 0.001 and +0.740, p 0.001), wool yield – with chest depth in rams (+0.737, p 0.001) and hip width in ewes (+0.469, p 0.001). In Trans-Baikal breed of the Khangil type rams, with an increase in the hip width measurement by 1 cm, it is possible to predict an increase in live weight by 5.50 kg (r = 0.839; p 0.001), in ewes with an increase in chest girth by 1 cm – by 1.04 kg (r = 0.740; p 0.001). The analysis of paired regression equations shows that the live weight of Trans-Baikal breed of the Khangil type ewes is largely determined by the linear measurement of the chest girth: in rams – 83.9 %, in ewes – 54.7 %, the influence of other factors accounts for 16.1 and 45.3 %, respectively. At the same time, in the multivariate regression models, 94.3 and 74.7 % of the change in body weight is explained by the effect of a complex of linear measurements, and the remaining share is attributed to the influence of other factors.

Associations of different genotypes with the meat productivity of sheep

Identification of the potential to increasthe agricultural production of farm animals has become possible through the use of genomic selection methods. It is advisable to improve breeding and pedigree qualities of local breeds, since these have the best adaptability to the features of the natural and geographical conditions in a given area. He controlled slaughter of animals with different genotypes allowed us to determine their meat qualities, such as biological value, slaughter yield and slaughter weight. The ratio of slaughter weight and pre‐slaughter weight gives the slaughter yield in percent.PCR (polyamino acid chain reaction) using specific synthesised sets of oligonucleotides in the genotyping of experimental sheep populations was carried out in order to study the allelic variants of the CAST and GH genes.When studying the indices characterising body weight in sheep which have different genotypes, significant increases in the indices could be observed before the periods of driving to summer pastures (17.2 kg) and during lambing (25.8 kg). The lowest indices were noted during driving both from winter pastures to summer pastures and from summer pastures to winter pastures (30.5 kg).In the period before driving, the live weight index was higher in the CASTMM genotype by 5.8 %; upon arrival in the mountains the difference was 6.1 %; during lambing — 4.7 %; before leaving for winter pastures — 8.4 % and upon arrival at winter pastures — 9.5 %.

Dietary supplementation with rosemary essential oil improves genital characteristics, semen parameters and testosterone concentration in Barki rams

BackgroundMale reproductive performance is an essential part of sheep production; therefore, the use of natural antioxidants to improve sperm quality and maintain reproductive performance in males is very important. Hence, oral administration of rosemary essential oil (REO) was investigated to improve the fertility rate, including the ultrasonographic testes, epididymal tail and genital glands, as well as semen parameters and testosterone concentration. Sixty animals were splitted into two groups, each with 30 rams; the rosemary group (C + REO) received 2 mg/kg/bw and the control group (C-REO). Ultrasound images and blood samples were collected at 15, 30 and 45 days of the REO treatment.ResultsThe testis and epididymal tail ultrasonographic assessments demonstrated a significant enhancement in the C + REO group compared to the C-REO group. However, the rams in the C + REO group showed significant improvements in the pampini-form plexus, seminal vesicle, Cowper's and prostate genital glands compared to the C-REO group. The data showed that the sperm cell concentration (× 109/ml) and individual motility (%) were significantly improved in the C + REO group. Furthermore, ejaculate volume (ml) in the C + REO group was significantly higher than that in the C-REO group. While the animals treated with REO did not improve live spermatozoa (%), it reduced the abnormalities of spermatozoa (%) compared to the C-REO group. Also, the C + REO group significantly increased the testosterone concentration more than the C-REO group.ConclusionIt can be concluded that supplementation with 2 mg/kg/bw REO improves genital characteristics, semen parameters and testosterone concentration in Barki rams.

Exploring longitudinal associations between farmer wellbeing and the welfare of their livestock. The HUNT Study, Norway

The One Welfare approach acknowledges the interrelationships between human wellbeing and animal welfare. Early research has suggested associations between stockperson wellbeing and livestock welfare, however these scenarios are complex and challenging to untangle.In this study, we utilised merged data from over 700 farms to explore associations between farmer wellbeing and livestock welfare. The farms were engaged in cattle, sheep, and/or swine production in Norway between 2017 and 2020. The farmers participated in a general population-based health survey, and livestock welfare was measured using routinely collected, animal-based abattoir observations of over 480,000 animals. We determined a farm’s overall livestock welfare relative to the other farms and calculated within-farm differences in this relative welfare level over time. A subset of enterprises (n=328) with sufficient and non-ambiguous farmer wellbeing information were then used to explore differences in these within-farm differences by farmer wellbeing status. We found that poor farmer wellbeing — whether it was defined by anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, symptoms of psychological distress, or life satisfaction — was associated with a deterioration in overall livestock welfare level (in terms of the mean of the farm’s abattoir observed welfare indicators). There was evidence that this association persisted for at least two years.Given societal concerns regarding sustainable food production, farmer wellbeing, and livestock welfare, further research is indicated to explore the complex farmer-livestock relationship within the One Welfare framework. This study suggests that using within-farm changes in relative livestock welfare derived from routinely collected information can be a useful approach.

Liming acidic soils creates profits, land use options but often more emissions

Context Soil acidity constrains crop production in Australia. The practice of liming can reduce soil acidity but produces greenhouse gas emissions. Aims By examining land use sequences over three decades at a range of locations in Western Australia, this study aims to identify firstly where and when liming might boost farm profits and secondly, what emissions and land use management flexibilities are generated by liming. Methods Bioeconomic simulation modelling is used to identify the gross margins and emissions associated with liming in land use sequences at 14 locations in Western Australia. Three intensities of cropping and three different rotational sequences are considered. The simulations account for price and weather–year variations across a 30-year period of analysis. Key results Liming is profitable at almost all locations and across all rotation sequences examined. Where problematic soil acidity is a feature or is poised to soon become a problem at a location, liming is a profitable ameliorative practice that enables greater diversity in land use. For most situations assessed, liming increases emissions. The exceptions are at locations where liming prevents a switch away from a crop-dominant system, due to soil acidity reducing crop yields, into additional sheep production that increases emissions. Conclusions Liming is profitable in most acidic soil situations and preserves land use flexibility, although additional greenhouse gas emissions are often generated. Implications Liming acidic soils bolsters land use profitability and helps sustain biologically diverse land use sequences, despite often increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Genetic parameters for Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae nasal DNA copy number provide progress to promote domestic and bighorn sheep coexistence on public lands

Discord between domestic sheep producers and bighorn sheep conservationists primarily involves concerns over the transmission of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae between domestic and wild sheep. To discern if selective breeding within the Rambouillet could serve to reduce transmission, a genetic approach utilizing an existing phenotype was evaluated for additive genetic variance. The phenotype employs the measure of nasally shed bacterial DNA, or M. ovipneumoniae nasal DNA copy number (MONCN). Following estimation of the additive genetic variation associated with MONCN, the heritability and repeatability for this trait was calculated. The level of MONCN was measured at least three times per year at the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station (USSES) from ewes ranging from 1 to 7 years of age. Repeated measures animal models were evaluated from 320 ewes with a total of 1223 samples (mean = 3.8 per ewe). The MONCN values ranged from 0 (non-detected) to 71,654 copies per 2 μl of extracted nasal swab DNA. Four genetic models were evaluated with the categorical model having the highest heritability (0.12 ± 0.09) and repeatability (0.60 ± 0.05). Fixed effects included season/year (n = 9) and ewe age (n = 7). Outcomes from this research resulted in heritability estimates from which breeding values can be estimated to select USSES ewes and rams for reduced MONCN. This research provides a practical approach that can be immediately implemented to manage domestic sheep to be more compatible with bighorn sheep on public lands, providing positive welfare benefits for both species.

Dissemination and characterization of Escherichia coli resistant to extended-cephalosporins in feedlot lambs: A two-year two-population study

Dissemination of antimicrobial resistance in food animals is a One Health concern, but sheep production has been overlooked. This study aimed to explore the dissemination of Escherichia coli resistant to extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESC) in feedlot lambs. Two pens were sampled on two occasions, and carcasses and other mammals living around were also tested. E. coli were recovered and antibiotic resistance determined. blaCTX-M/CMY genes and their genetic localization were characterized. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed to confirm clonal relationship. The most prevalent ESC-resistance genes in the 108 E. coli isolates were blaCTX-M-55 (53.7 %), blaCTX-M-2 (14.8 %) and blaCMY-2 (13.9 %). Most blaCTX-M-55 genes were found on the chromosome, but IncA/C, IncHI1, IncHI2 and IncF plasmids were also identified. Genetic diversity was observed even though ST6448 was by far the most frequent ST. WGS analysis showed high similarity among isolates recovered from feedlot lambs, animals in the surroundings and lambs’ carcasses, proving the clonal and plasmidic dissemination.

Supporting traceability and biosecurity in the sheep and goat industries in NSW: understanding barriers to implementing electronic identification.

Efficient traceability is paramount for Australia's biosecurity system and market access. Electronic identification (eID) offers higher traceability performance than that achieved with visual and mob-based identification used for the sheep and goats National Livestock Identification System (NLIS). The current study aims to gain an understanding of the barriers and motivations of using eID for NLIS sheep and goats in New South Wales (NSW) and to provide recommendations to support the transition to eID. A social research study using a mixed-methods approach was used through semi-structured interviews and a cross-sectional epidemiological and behavioural study among sheep and goat producers. The COM-B behaviour change model based on capabilities, opportunities and motivations was used as a framework for the study. A total of 269 participants informed this study: 25 interviews were conducted with government, industry and private stakeholders, and 184 and 58 sheep and goat producers participated in the cross-sectional study, respectively. The study identified poor understanding of the purpose and importance of NLIS among producers, with over two-thirds not supporting eID implementation. The main barriers identified to the eID implementation were practical, including costs, technology quality and increased workload. Attitudinal, behavioural and knowledge barriers, such as the perception of the current system providing efficient traceability and the perceived lack of benefits of eID were also identified. This study provides an in-depth analysis of practices and perceptions of stakeholders and producers on sheep and goat traceability and recommendations to address barriers identified, based on education and appropriate behavioural and technical support.

Productivity and resistance of sheep depending on the grazing period duration

Abstract The purpose of the research is to establish the productive qualities and resistance of the sheep organism at different periods of keeping sheep on pastures. Studies on improving the pasture use system were carried out on three groups of sheep with the beginning of the pasture season on April 25: Group I – with the end of the pasture season on October 15, II – on November 15, and III – on December 15. The data obtained indicate that the females kept on pastures for a longer time exceeded their peers of other groups by 1.6-2.0 kg in live weight. Before being driven to pastures on April 20, their live weight also turned out to be higher by 0.8-1.2 kg, and during their stay on pastures – by 0.7-1.6 kg, which indicates the expediency of longer grazing of sheep. In terms of live weight, the superiority of late weaning compared to the average was 1.25%, over group I (early term) – 5.23% (P>0.95). The blood of young ewes with a long grazing period contained more leukocytes, gamma globulins, erythrocytes and, most importantly, hemoglobin.

Influence of Management Systems on Severity of Heat Stress and Reproductive Performance of Rams in the Tropics – A Review

Abstract Sheep are an important source of protein for humans, and recent decades have seen a significant increase in the production of sheep-based products, thus indicating an increase in demand for this commodity. At a time when this sector is growing, sheep are exposed to various challenges. These include climate change, which can cause heat stress in sheep, including rams, which later negatively affects their growth and reproductive performance. Exposure to heat stress results in physiological and reproductive behaviour responses in rams, which could also be used to visually identify the effect of heat stress as it will affect the productivity of livestock. In addition, the year-round hot and humid climate of the tropics is expected to contribute to a higher probability of heat stress occurrences in rams reared in developing countries around the equator. Nevertheless, the adaptability of rams to heat stress varies according to their origin, whereby native breeds tend to adapt better. Despite that, native breeds still can be affected by adverse environmental conditions and rely on thermoregulation mechanisms to mitigate heat stress. This results in numerous negative physiological changes, such as sweating and increased heart rate. This review highlights the effects of heat stress on the physiology, reproductive behaviour and reproductive performance of male sheep. The review also discusses the impact of management systems on heat stress in rams, which affects sheep productivity.

Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and its gene polymorphism of Hydatid Cyst Disease in an Infected Patients

Hydatid cystic disease is an economic burden in Iraq since it decreases the productivity of sheep, goats, cows, and camels by making the organs unpalpable for human consumption, hence weight-loss and ill health. This is one of the most common zoonosis diseases shared between human beings and animals and appears in man hosts inlcuded some organes, such as liver and lung as hydatid cyst . it causes many complications that may lead to death in repured parasites. Now there are no safe and effective in the fight against this parasite, and the search for such medications is in research. The Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 is a one of the enzymes that belong to the family of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which play a crucial role in the proteolytic degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). These enzymes have a zinc ion in the active site that is important for their proteolytic activity. MMP-9, also known as Gelatinase B, catalyzes gelatin and degrades components of the ECM, including abundant type IV collagen in basement membranes. MMP-9 plays an important role in various biological processes, including tissue remodeling, angiogenesis, and tissue inflammation. The objective of the study is to determine the impact of MMP-9 serum levels and specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs17576 and rs76070157 on patients with hydatid disease, in comparison to a control group of healthy individuals. A total of (62) patients diagnosed with hydatid disease, consisting of 18 males and 44 females, were compared to a control group of(75) individuals, comprising 29 males and 46 females .The study examined the MMP-9 rs17576 and rs76070157 )SNPs( in patients with hydatid disease, comparing them to a control group of healthy individuals. The study revealed no statistically significant difference in the average age between the two groups at a significance level of 0.05. Additionally, the study found higher concentrations of MMP-9 in the sera of the infected group (20.40 ± 1.52 pg/µl) compared to the control group (19.49 ± 1.62 pg/µl). The rs17576 )SNPs( data indicated that the TT genotype and T allele exhibited a slightly higher frequency percentage in the group of patients with hydatid disease compared to the healthy group, however this difference was not statistically significant. The values are (98.4% and 99.0%) the value of pc is 0.001. The elevated odds ratio (OR) associated with the TT genotype and T allele may serve as a potential risk factor for hydatid disease. The rs17576 SNPs displayed genotypes that were not in accordance with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. However, these genotypes were consistent with those observed in a control group. The GG genotype showed a significant increase in frequency compared to the control group (100.0% vs. 100.0%), while the G allele exhibited a non-significant increase in frequency. The odds ratio (OR) for the TG genotype was 3.68, and the p-value (pc) was 0.05.Elevated value could potentially increase the risk of hydatid disease. The presence of the TG genotype was shown to considerably increase the frequency percentage in the group of patients with hydatid disease. The odds ratio (OR) value of 1.6 suggests that it may be a risk factor for hydatid disease, with a frequency of 98.4% compared to 0.99 % in the control group. The p-value of 0.001 indicates a statistically significant association. The GG genotype was present in (0%) of the affected group but absent (100.0%) in the healthy group. The odds ratio (OR) of 3.68, with a p-value of 0.001, suggests that the GG genotype is associated with a significantly lower risk of hydatid disease.

Merinos in Poland – an analysis of breeding condition, selected performance traits and perspectives for the protection of genetic resources in relation to the country’s total sheep population

The purpose of the study was to analyse the breeding condition and performance traits of merino sheep belonging to three breeds in 2008-2022. The experimental material consisted of data derived from annual reports published by the Polish Sheep Breeding Association on breeding of three merino breeds: Polish Merino, Coloured Merino, old-type Polish Merino and data on the number and distribution of flocks, as well as data on the implementation of the sheep genetic resources protection programme from the database of the National Research Institute of Animal Production covering the period of the last 15 years. Analysing the population size over the last 15 years, significant changes were observed in the breed structure of the Merino sheep population. The implementation of conservation programmes and the opportunity to obtain subsidies for conservation breeds have had an impact on the breeding of these breeds in our country. Currently, the largest share of the merino sheep population is represented by the old-type Polish merino. Merino breeding has a regional and large-scale profile, concentrated in the historical areas of their maintenance, in Wielkopolska and Kujawy, usually in flocks of about 100 dams. Reproduction rates expressed by maternal prolificacy were found to be in line with the breed pattern. The Polish merino and the old-type Polish merino were distinguished by similar parameters of reproductive traits and higher fertility as well as rearing indices than those of the coloured merino. The coloured merino is the breed with the highest fertility and breeding performance. Body weight of lambs was higher for the white varieties. However, reproductive and meat performance indices show the potential of merino sheep in the context of lamb production, which is currently the main focus of sheep production in Poland.

Practical Management of Sheep Farming in Eastern Algeria: Situation, Constraints and Perspectives

Successful sheep farming requires hands-on management and a thorough understanding of the factors that influence it. This necessitates a practical, well-organized approach to ensure the flock's health, productivity, and profitability. Various factors, such as climate, available resources, and management strategies, play a crucial role in determining the success of sheep farming. This study, conducted in the Batna region of Algeria, aimed to assess sheep breeding practices and production performance through a questionnaire distributed to farmers and veterinarians. The study encompassed 14,124 sheep, including 9,435 ewes, from 33 Batna region farms to evaluate production and reproduction performance. The findings revealed that the Ouled Djellal breed is the most prevalent, comprising 61.02% of the sheep population. The results indicated that sheep farming in the region largely relies on traditional extensive grazing systems. It is worth noting that breeding practices have not consistently followed recommended guidelines, as evidenced by a suboptimal sex ratio of 36.28. Additionally, only 21.94% of breeders had employed heat synchronization methods, and artificial insemination was not utilized. The low adoption of artificial insemination is primarily attributed to factors, including a lack of knowledge regarding reproductive management, along with challenges related to illiteracy and limited access to essential resources. The analysis further demonstrated that all categories of sheep were profitable; however, profitability was influenced by factors, such as environmental conditions, feed availability, and the age of the animals. The study underscored significant findings, including the prevalence of the Ouled Djellal breed and the limited use of advanced breeding practices, such as artificial insemination, in the Batna region. The value of the current study lies in its comprehensive examination of traditional sheep farming practices and its recommendations for enhancing productivity. These include improving management practices, increasing access to resources, and promoting genetic improvement by adopting advanced breeding technologies.