Texel Breed Research Articles

SNP Markers: Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Identification of Genomic Regions in Pantaneiro Sheep and Texel Sheep Under Natural Selection.

Sheep farming is growing substantially in Brazil, driven by the increasing demand for sheep meat. This rising demand has heightened the focus on sheep, making them the subject of numerous studies, including those centered on genetic analysis. A notable research area involves Pantaneiro sheep, which are indigenous to the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul and other locations. These sheep are of particular interest due to their adaptation to the unique environmental conditions of the Pantanal, a floodplain characterized by its distinctive climatic and ecological features. This study primarily aimed to conduct a comprehensive genomic analysis of Pantanal sheep subjected to natural selection within the Pantanal region and compare different sample herds using methodological approaches. Genomic analysis was performed to examine genetic diversity and structure via GGP50K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis. A sample of 192 adult sheep over 4 years old was categorized into seven populations based on location: Six populations comprised Pantaneiro sheep with one Texel sheep population. Outlier SNPs were assessed to pinpoint regions under natural selection, with comparisons between the Pantaneiro and the commercial Texel breeds. All data analyses were conducted using the R programming language, employing specialized genetic analysis packages. These outlier SNPs were detected using three methodologies, PCAdapt, OutFLANK, and FDIST2/fsthet, with false discovery rate (FDR) corrections applied to ensure result accuracy. Each method was evaluated, and the genes associated with the identified SNPs were cross-referenced with the most recent sheep genome database, focusing specifically on genes with known phenotypic traits. Analysis of a sample comprising 192 adult individuals revealed greater genetic variability within the Pantaneiro breed than the Texel breed, highlighting the adaptation of the Pantaneiro breed to the unique Pantanal environment. Conversely, the Texel breed exhibited significantly higher levels of inbreeding, attributed to its controlled breeding practices. Outlier SNPs were detected with notable variation across different methodologies, underscoring the importance of FDR correction in ensuring the reliability and concentration of identified outliers. These outlier SNPs facilitated the identification of genes associated with key phenotypic traits, including hair growth, tissue regeneration, pigmentation regulation, and muscle capacity. The integrated analysis of methodologies demonstrated significant efficiency in elucidating the genomic landscape of Pantanal sheep, highlighting the genetic richness inherent in sheep from the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul. The techniques employed effectively identified outlier SNPs associated with phenotypically relevant genes. These findings, which reveal greater genetic variability and adaptability, underscore the potential of these animals for future research and their significance within Brazilian sheep farming. The Texel breed served as a valuable comparative group, illustrating the limited genetic variability in highly controlled breeding environments.

Field outcomes of laparoscopic ovum pick-up combined with in vitro embryo production in sheep: Effects of long-acting recombinant ovine FSH pre-stimulation, collection frequency, and donor breed

Laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) combined with in vitro embryo production (IVEP) is a technology platform that improves the utilization rate of the elite ewe's ovarian oocytes and increases the number of obtained offspring. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of FSH pre-stimulation, serial oocyte collection, and breed on LOPU-IVEP under field conditions. Donors were randomly assigned to five groups (group A: decreasing doses of pituitary FSH (p-FSH); group B: constant doses of p-FSH; group C: two doses of long-acting recombinant ovine FSH (ro-FSH); group D: single administration of a long-acting ro-FSH in; group E: no FSH stimulation). Oocyte yield following LOPU (average recovered oocytes: 20.9 ± 0.5; average viable oocytes: 17.2 ± 0.4) and oocyte developmental competence (average blastocysts: 7.0 ± 0.2) in group C were significantly better than these of group D and group E, and similar to these of groups A and B. Meanwhile, there were no differences in oocyte yield and developmental capacity using repeated LOPU session at 1-, 2-, and 3-month intervals (p > 0.05). Finally, we compared LOPU-IVEP outcomes among five sheep breeds. The results indicated that East Friesian × Chinese Mongolian crossbred sheep and purebred East Friesian sheep had the more recovered oocytes and viable oocytes compared with the Suffolk, Dorper, and Texel breeds, and average number of blastocysts in East Friesian × Chinese Mongolian sheep group was also highest among the groups (8.1 ±0.3, p < 0.05). In summary, the results of this study indicate long-acting ro-FSH pre-stimulation combined with 12 times LOPU sessions over one year maximizes embryo production of elite donor ewes under field conditions.

Кінематичні показники та дихальна активність деконсервованих сперміїв баранів за додавання наноцитрату Mn, Zn та Cu до середовища для кріоконсервування

The aim of the work was to find out the effect of adding nanocitrate of Mn, Zn and Cu to the medium for cryopreservation of ram sperm on kinematic indicators and respiratory activity of thawed sperm. The experiment was conducted on six clinically healthy breeder rams of the Texel breed aged 2–4 years. After receiving the ejaculates of the rams, they were evaluated for the volume, concentration and motility of the sperm and were divided into control and experimental groups. Control sperm samples were diluted with lactose-yolk-tris-citrate-glycerol medium (LYTCGM). Nanocitrates of trace elements were added to the medium in experimental samples of ram sperm in the following doses: Zn and Mn — 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 μg/l, Cu — 1.25, 2.5 and 3.75 μg/l. Diluted sperm was packaged in straws, equilibrated for 2.5 hours and frozen. After thawing of sperm, motility, morphological damage of sperm, kinematic parameters of sperm motility (CASA), oxidation and reduction activity of sperm were determined. A dose-dependent effect of Mn, Zn, and Cu nanocitrates upon their addition to LYTCGM was established. The addition of Mn and Zn nanocitrate at a dose of 5.0 μg/l to LYTCGM significantly (P&lt;0.05–0.01) increases the activity of thawed ram sperm, while the addition of Cu nanocitrate in increasing doses significantly reduces the motility of sperm in thawed ram sperm. Addition of Mn and Zn nanocitrate in an optimal dose of 5.0 μg/l to LYTCGM significantly (P&lt;0.05–0.01) reduces the number of spermatozoa degenerated and with damaged acrosomes, and with the addition of Cu nanocitrate in increasing doses, morphological disorders of germ cell significantly increase cells The addition of Mn and Zn nanocitrate at a dose of 5.0 μg/l to LYTCGM significantly (P&lt;0.01–0.001) increases the kinematic parameters of thawed ram sperm, and the addition of Cu nanocitrate in increasing doses significantly reduces the indicators of germ cell motility. The addition of Mn and Zn nanocitrates to the medium for cryopreservation of ram sperm increases the oxidation and inhibits the reduction activity of thawed sperm. Addition of Cu nanocitrate to LYTCGM in increasing doses reduces the oxidation and increases the reduction activity of thawed ram sperm.

The quality and fertilizing ability of sperm after the addition of nanosuccinates of Mn, Cu, Zn to the medium for cryopreservation of ram sperm

In the process of cryopreservation of sperm, there are violations of the ultrastructure of spermatozoa, which causes biochemical and functional changes in them. To protect spermatozoa from the negative effects of low temperatures, cryopreservation media are used, to which trace elements are added. Recently, nanoforms of trace elements have been obtained in Ukraine and experiments have been started to study their effect on the animal body. The aim of the work was to find out the effect of adding nanosuccinate of Mn, Zn and Cu to the medium for cryopreservation of ram sperm on the quality and fertilizing ability of sperm. The experiment was conducted on six clinically healthy breeder rams, aged 2–4 years. After evaluating the ejaculate from six rams aged 2–4 years, the Texel breed was divided into control and experimental groups. Control sperm samples were diluted with lactose-yolk-tris-citrate-glycerin medium (LYTCGM). Nanosuccinates of microelements were added to the medium in test samples of ram sperm in the following doses: Zn and Mn – 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 μg/l, Cu – 1.25, 2.5 and 3.75 μg/l. Diluted sperm was packaged in straws, equilibrated for 2.5 hours and frozen. After thawing of sperm, motility, percentage of damaged spermatozoa, their survival, activity of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and cytochrome oxidase (CO) in sperm were determined. A dose-dependent effect of Mn, Zn, and Cu nanocitrates upon their addition to LYTCGM was established. The addition of Mn and Zn nanosuccinate at a dose of 5.0 μg/l to LYTCGM probably increases the motility of ram spermatozoa after thawing, and also reduces the percentage of spermatozoa with morphological disorders. Addition of Cu nanosuccinate in increasing doses significantly reduces spermatozoa motility in thawed ram semen, simultaneously increasing the percentage of degenerate spermatozoa. After the addition of Mn and Zn nanosuccinate at a dose of 5.0 μg/l LYTCGM, the survival rate of ram spermatozoa is probably increased, and the addition of Cu nanosuccinate in increasing doses significantly reduces the survival time of germ cells. Addition of Mn and Zn nanosuccinate at a dose of 5.0 μg/l to LYTCGM probably increases the activity of SDH and CO in sperm after thawing, and the addition of Cu nanosuccinate in increasing doses significantly reduces the activity of these enzymes. The addition of Mn and Zn nanosuccinate in lower (2.5 μg/l) and higher (7.5 μg/l) doses did not significantly affect the motility, morphological disorders and survival of spermatozoa, as well as the activity of SDH and CO in them.

The quality of ram spermatozoa after thawing with the addition of Mn2+, Zn2+ and Cu2+ nanocitrate to cryopreservation diluent

The aim of the study was to find out the effect of adding nanocitrate of Mn, Zn and Cu to the diluent for ram spermatozoa cryopreservation on its quality and ability for fertilizing. The experiment was carried out on six clinically healthy breeder 2–4-year-old rams of the Texel breed. The received ejaculates of the rams were evaluated for the volume, sperm concentration and motility and then divided into control and experimental groups. Control sperm samples were diluted with lactose-yolk-tris-citrate-glycerin medium (LYTCGM). Nanocitrates of microelements were added to the medium in experimental samples of ram sperm in the following doses: Zn2+ and Mn2+ — 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 μg/l, Cu2+ — 1.25, 2.5 and 3.75 μg/l. The diluted sperm was packaged in straws, equilibrated for 2.5 h and frozen. After thawing of sperm we determined motility, survival of sperm, activity of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and cytochrome oxidase (CO), activity of antioxidant protection enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (HPO) and catalase (CAT). A dose- dependent effect of Mn, Zn, and Cu nanocitrates upon their addition to LYTCGM was established. Addition of nanocitrates of Mn, Zn to LYTCGM at a dose of 5.0 μg/l increased sperm motility by 22.2% (P&lt;0.05) and 26.0% (P&lt;0.01), and sperm survival, respectively, by 12.6% on (P&lt;0.01) and 5.9% (P&lt;0.05) compared to the control. Nanocitrates of Mn, Zn at a dose of 5.0 μg/l as part of LYTCGM caused a probable increase in SDH (P&lt;0.001) and CO (P&lt;0.05–0.01), which indicates a high fertilizing ability of ram spermatozoa. Similarly, when Mn, Zn nanocitrates were added to LYTCGM at a dose of 5.0 μg/l, SOD activity decreased by 29.6% (P&lt;0.01) and 38.8% (P&lt;0.01) and HPO activity increased by 43.5% (P&lt;0.01) and 39.1% (P&lt;0.01), and CAT — by 40.0% (P&lt;0.05) and 37.5% (P&lt;0.05), respectively. At the same time, the addition of Cu nanocitrate to LYTCGM with an increase in the dose significantly reduces the activity, survival and fertilizing capacity of thawed ram spermatozoa, and also worsens their antioxidant protection.

40 Texel Genetics Increase Muscle Growth by Altering Satellite Cell Characteristics

Abstract The Texel breed is a double muscled breed of sheep that is commonly used as a terminal sire in meat-production. The increase in muscle mass is related to a single nucleotide polymorphism in the myostatin gene, a myokine that inhibits muscle growth. There is limited information on how postnatal skeletal muscle fiber hypertrophy is altered in Texel lambs. Satellite cells or muscle stem cells have a major role in postnatal hypertrophy of muscle fibers. Satellite cells are generally found in a state of quiescence and must activate, proliferate, and differentiate to increase DNA content in myofibers during periods of postnatal muscle growth. The objective of this study was to evaluate muscle fiber hypertrophy and satellite cell proliferation and differentiation in lambs of two sire breeds, Texel or Suffolk. Male lambs of each sire breed (n = 4/sire breed/time) were harvested at d 2, 14, and 203 of age. Muscle samples were collected from the longissimus and snap frozen for examination of myofiber cross-sectional area by fluorescent immunohistochemistry. Another portion of the longissimus was used to isolate satellite cells for in vitro experiments to examine population number, proliferation, and differentiation capacity. Isolated satellite cells were counted, seeded for activation, and grown until colonies reached 80% confluence. Activated cells were seeded for a proliferation assay measuring DNA content daily for 6 days. Following proliferation, cells were differentiated for 4 days, and the number of differentiated nuclei were counted with fluorescent immunohistochemistry. Sire breed did not impact (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the weight of the longissimus; however, muscle ribeye area tended (P &amp;lt; 0.10) to be increased for Texel lambs compared with Suffolk lambs. In the early postnatal period, from d 2 to 14, longissimus mass increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) by 160%, and ribeye area increased by 100%. Between d 4 and 203 longissimus mass increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) by 350%, while longissimus area only increased by 100%. Muscle fiber cross sectional area expanded (P &amp;lt; 0.05) from d 14 to 203 of age, and cross-sectional area was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for Texel than Suffolk lambs at d 203. Satellite cell populations per gram of tissue increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) between d 2 and 14 and decreased from d 14 to 203. The number of satellite cells that activated from quiescence was reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) as animal age increased but was not impacted (P &amp;gt; 0.05) by sire breed. Following activation, satellite cell proliferation capacity was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for Texel compared with Suffolk satellite cells. Differentiation capacity was not altered (P &amp;gt; 0.05) by sire breed. Texel-sired lambs had larger longissimus cross-sectional muscle fiber area at d 203 of age than Suffolk. These changes appear to be related to greater proliferation of satellite cells, the stem cells of muscle, to enhance muscle fiber hypertrophy during postnatal growth.

Sperm productivity of Texel breed rams depending on the period of seasonal activity and mode of use

The results of laboratory studies of freshly obtained and deep-frozen semen of Texel breeding rams in the non-mating and mating periods under different modes of using 4, 6, and 8 ejaculates per week are given. It has been proven that during the non-mating period, when receiving four ejaculates per week compared to 6 and 8 ejaculates, the ejaculate volume was 11.3 and 22.6 % higher, respectively. The sperm concentration in it was 5.1 and 12.2 %, sperm activity was higher by 1.7 and 3.2 %, and their resistance by 7.1 and 17.3 percent. In the mating period under the above regimen, the ejaculate volume was 9.9 and 19.7 % higher; sperm concentration was 4.1 and 5.9 % higher; sperm activity was higher by 5.7 and 8.3 %, resistance was higher by 7 .7 and 19.9 percent. Higher quality indicators were found in the mode of obtaining four ejaculates after sperm cryopreservation in both research periods, on average, according to the activity of deconserved sperm by 3.2 and 8.0 and 5.8 and 11.2 %, freezing resistance by 0.7 and 2,0 and 2.6 and 4.6 %, survival by 7.6 and 15.5 and 2.2 and 10.6%, absolute survival rate by 3.4 and 8.1 and 4.7 and 8.5 percent Based on the analysis of the investigated indicators of freshly obtained and de-preserved sperm, it was experimentally confirmed that in the mating period compared to the non-mating period, they were significantly higher on average in freshly obtained sperm from 7.7 to 40.1 %, in cryopreserved sperm – from 2.9 to 16.7 percent. The preservation of acrosomes of sperm in the non-mating and mating period, when receiving four ejaculates per week compared to receiving 6 and 8, was higher by periods by 3.5 and 6.0 %, and 2.5 and 5 %, respectively. The studies established significantly higher quantitative and qualitative indicators of freshly collected and deconserved sperm in both seasonal activity periods under the regime of obtaining four ejaculates per week from breeding rams. Under this regime, the sperm is biologically complete, and its quality indicators meet the requirements of the instructions for the artificial insemination of sheep.

Model definition for genetic evaluation of purebred and crossbred lambs including heterosis.

Crossbreeding is a common practice among commercial sheep producers to improve animal performance. However, genetic evaluation of U.S. sheep is performed within breed type (terminal sire, semi-prolific, and western range). While incorporating crossbred records may improve assessment of purebreds, it requires accounting for heterotic and breed effects in the evaluation. The objectives of this study were to: 1) describe the development of a paternal composite (PC) line, 2) determine the effect of direct and maternal heterosis on growth traits of crossbred lambs, 3) estimate (co)variance components for direct and maternal additive, and uncorrelated maternal environmental, effects, and 4) provide an interpretation of the estimates of random effects of genetic groups, and to use those solutions to compare the genetic merit of founding breed subpopulations. Data included purebred and crossbred records on birth weight (BN; n = 14,536), pre-weaning weight measured at 39 or 84 d (WN; n = 9,362) depending on year, weaning weight measured at 123 d (WW; n = 9,297), and post-weaning weight measured at 252 d (PW; n = 1,614). Mean (SD) body weights were 5.3 (1.1), 16.8 (3.9) and 28.0 (7.6), 39.1 (7.2), and 54.2 (8.7) kg for BN, WN (at the two ages), WW, and PW, respectively. In designed experiments, the Siremax, Suffolk, Texel, Polypay, Columbia, Rambouillet, and Targhee breeds were compared within the same environment. Estimates of heterotic effects and covariance components were obtained using a multiple trait animal model. Genetic effects based on founders' breeds were significant and included in the model. Percent estimates of direct heterosis were 2.89 ± 0.61, 2.60 ± 0.65, 4.24 ± 0.56, and 6.09 ± 0.86, and estimates of maternal heterosis were 1.92 ± 0.87, 4.64 ± 0.80, 3.95 ± 0.66, and 4.04 ± 0.91, for BN, WN, WW, and PW, respectively. Correspondingly, direct heritability estimates were 0.17 ± 0.02, 0.13 ± 0.02, 0.17 ± 0.02, and 0.46 ± 0.04 for BN, WN, WW, and PW. Additive maternal effects accounted for trivial variation in PW. For BN, WN, and WW, respectively, maternal heritability estimates were 0.16 ± 0.02, 0.10 ± 0.02, and 0.07 ± 0.01. Uncorrelated maternal environmental effects accounted for little variation in any trait. Direct and maternal heterosis had considerable impact on growth traits, emphasizing the value of crossbreeding and the need to account for heterosis, in addition to breed effects, if crossbred lamb information is included in genetic evaluation.

USE OF SIRE RAMS OF IMPORTED BREEDS TO INCREASE MEAT PERFORMANCE IN YOUNG ANIMALS OF PLANNED GENOTYPES

Experimental studies have shown that the productive potential of sheep breeds and their crossbreeds reared in the Republic is sufficiently high. The imported animals have been well adapted to the technological conditions at small and large sheep-breeding enterprises. However, it should be noted that the purposeful improvement of meat qualities of commercial young sheep can be achieved by using in industrial crossbreeding the genetic potential of foreign meat-type sheep such as the Ile-de-France, Merinolandschaf and Texel breeds. In this connection, new and more effective options for their crossing and interline hybridization in pure breeding are being searched. On the basis of the findings obtained, the authors confirm the practicability of using in the breeding of wool-and-meat young sheep not only traditional linear measurements, including height at the withers, oblique body length, chest girth, etc., but also closely related parameters of the live-animal evaluation of meat performance characterizing the expressiveness of body conformation for meat animal.

MAGRARIO: UN NUEVO GENOTIPO PARA PRODUCIR CARNE OVINA DE CALIDAD

Generally there is poor tradition to produce and to commercialize heavy lean lamb carcasses. To achieve a better product for the ovine meat market Ideal (Polwarth) breed ewes were backcrossed to Texel breed rams (breed recognized to reduce carcass fat). Ideal breed (I) is one of the most ordinary breeds in Argentina. However, when their lambs are reared in feed-lot conditions, a high fat content is found in their lamb carcasses. After three generations of backcrosses followed by a breeding program for increase male lamb weaning weight and female fertility a new genotype was obtained for the local ovine meat production systems. This new genotype registered as Magrario (M) was obtained at Villarino Field Station of UNR (Zavalla, Santa Fe, 33º S, 61º W). It was verify that M produced more lean meat than I breed under feet lot conditions. M rams were introduced in flocks of Hampshire Down (HD) breed to evaluate lamb crosses with lean meat. Genotype M was compared under feed lot conditions with HD lambs during two months in the post weaning. Also crosses (MxHD), (MxI) and (IxHD) were evaluated in the same conditions. At the end of the experiment ultrasonic methods were used to evaluate fat depot on Longissimus dorsi. The (MxHD) showed a reduction of 20% respecting to HD. These results suggested that M genotype could be a useful paternal genotype to reduce fat depots when the aim is to produce lamb crosses under feed lot conditions in a short period of time. Key words: ovine, lean meat, feed lot, crossing.

Response to iodine supplementation in the growth and quality of Texel lamb meat

Iodine deficiency determines reproductive problems especially in the production of thyroid hormone, affecting the functions that thyroidal hormones regulate, such as energy metabolism, thermoregulation, reproduction, growth, muscle and bone tissue function. Indeed a certain concentration of iodine in the diet can promote performance in production in terms of fattening and growth. The main goal of the work was the supplementation with iodine salt from weaning to work on the production and quality of carcass and meat of early lambs of the Texel breed. Three random groups were formed. In one group, iodine salt was administered daily individually, in another group salt without iodine and finally a third "control" group without salt aggregate. All these animals were fed on natural field with an energy-protein supplement. The weaning weight and its evolution (daily gain) were determined, fortnightly until the work weight (35 kg) was reached. Blood levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and Selenium (Se) were evaluated. In the carcass were measured the hot and cold carcass weight, pH, colour; GR point and in the meat tenderness will be determined in the Longissimus dorsi muscle. Se concentrations, neutral detergent fiber, crude protein and iodine in pastures were also determined. The results show that no significant differences were found for any of the characters measured.

Laceración perineal en una oveja Texel: reporte de un caso

The perineal laceration is one of the most common injuries related to the parturition, mostly in the equine specie, and, less frequently, in the bovine species. This disease is uncommon in ovine, therefore justifying the importance this case report. The present work aimed to present a case report of a third-degree laceration in a Texel breed ewe. Where received at the Veterinary Clinics School of the UNICENTRO, a Texel ewe, primiparous, 1.5 year of age, with historic of laceration during the birth of an only male lamb with 4,5kg. During the physical examination, all parameters were normal, but the laceration involved the dorsal commissure of the vulva, anal sphincter and a small portion of the vestibule. The preconized treatment was the immediate surgical intervention, once the animal was recent lambed and still not yet developed an intense local edema. Due the lesion at rectum and vestibule, were performed an epidural and infiltrative local anesthesia with lidocaine 2%. The vaginal vestibular mucosa suture pattern was Cushing, using an absorbable thread n.0. To the vulva reconstruction was necessary the resection of a segment of the mucous-cutaneous junction of each vulvar lip, followed by a single point suture, using a non-absorbable thread n.2-0. At the postoperative were administered sulfa + trimetoprim (15mg/kg, IM, SID) during seven days, and flunixin meglumine (1.1mg/kg, IM, SID) for three days. Daily wound cleaning was performed using povidine iodine diluted in NaCl 0.9% solution, finishing with a fly repellent around the perineal region. The suture was removed after 10 days, with the complete wound healing. Despite the successful surgery treatment outcome, the owner decided to discard the ewe after the lamb weaning.

Prediction of Myostatin on Carcass Composition in Crossbred Lambs

Abstract In order to maintain consumer acceptance of lamb meat, producers are aiming to produce leaner lambs through breeding for certain carcass characteristics. The Texel breed is known for its superior muscling phenotype due to a myostatin mutation. Because of this mutation, Texel and Texel cross lambs have been shown to have improved carcass lean with less fat in various locations throughout the carcass. The objective of this study was to observe the impacts of different sire and dam breeds on carcass composition. Lambs (n = 41) were produced by mating two dam breeds (Southdown or Suffolk) and two sire breeds (Southdown or Texel). Lambs were harvested and a hot carcass weight was obtained. At 24 h postmortem, a chilled carcass weight was taken, and each carcass was split in half. The left side of the carcass was cut into the four primal cuts and scanned using a DXA. The right half was used for standard carcass variables. After DXA scans, each primal was weighed and the major muscles were dissected from the primal cuts and weighed. Subsamples of muscles were used for total lipid analysis and Warner-Bratzler Shear Force testing. DXA scans showed a difference in the primal cut mass (P = 0.0207) with the Suffolk-Texel cross having the highest average primal cut mass at 12.52 kg. Southdown-Southdown lambs had the highest fat percentage (dam P = 0.0398; sire P = 0.0116). Dam breed had a more significant effect on muscle toughness (P &amp;lt; 0.0035). Southdown sired lambs had a higher SFA (P = 0.0046) and MUFA (P &amp;lt; .0001) but Texel sired lambs had a higher overall fatty acid ratio (P &amp;lt; .0001). On average, the Suffolk-Texel cross was shown to have heavier average weight for the primal cuts in the rack and leg, which are where some of the more profitable cuts of meat are located.

Characteristics of carcass and non-carcass components of lambs fed wet brewery waste as a roughage feed

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of including wet brewery waste (WBW) as the exclusive dietary roughage source on the characteristics of carcass and non-carcass components of feedlot-finished lambs. Thirty-two non-castrated male lambs weaned at 50 days of age, resulting from the cross between the Texel and Ile de France breeds, were used. The diet was constituted by roughage (WBW) and a concentrate composed of crushed maize, soybean meal, limestone and common salt. Treatments consisted of four levels of WBW as the roughage source in the diet (% dry matter), namely, 31, 44, 57 and 70%. Lambs were slaughtered upon reaching 34 kg live weight. The treatments resulted in a linear decrease in hot and cold carcass weights and yields, carcass compactness index, conformation, degree of fatness and rib-eye area. Among the primal cuts, the absolute weights of pallet, ribs and legs decreased as the WBW level was increased. As to the non-carcass components, only the total gastrointestinal content increased linearly with WBW. The increasing levels of WBW led to greater fasting losses and reduced carcass weights and yields. There was also a reduction in the degree of fatness, carcass compactness, carcass conformation index and rib-eye area Wet brewery waste at the concentration of 31% as the roughage source in the diet of finishing lambs in the feedlot provides better carcass traits.

Combination of immunostimulants with moxidectin in the treatment of animals experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus

Considering the importance of Haemonchus contortus infection in herds along with parasitic resistance, the goal of this study was to evaluate the influence of the administration of adjuvants alone or in combination with anthelmintics for the treatment of H. contortus, in experimentally infected sheep. Thirty sheep of the Texel breed of both genders, raised in a herd located in the subtropical region of Brazil, were used in this experiment. Experimental infection with H. contortus was performed in sheep, and the infected sheep were then separated into groups for the administration of antiparasitic and immunostimulant drugs. The results obtained from the excretion of eggs per gram of feces and the count of parasites during necropsy affirm that the use of adjuvants in combination with anthelmintics is associated with higher efficacy of treatment, lower rate of reinfection, and retardation in the development of anthelmintic drug resistance by H. contortus. Based on these results, we can conclude that the combination of anthelmintics and immunostimulants may favor potential anthelmintic treatments for H. contortus.

Viability of the use of mycotoxin adsorbent in the finishing of Texel lambs in confinement.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the viability of a mycotoxin adsorbent based on beta-glucans from cell walls of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and bentonites in the diets of confined lambs of the Texel breed. Twenty-four lambs (12 males and 12 females) with an average weight of 18.6 kg ± 1.6 were divided into two groups: treated (with adsorbent) and control. The animal diets contained the mycotoxins aflatoxin B1, fumonisin B1 and B2, zearalenone, and deoxynivalenol in concentrations within guidance levels. The animals were slaughtered with body weight of approximately 26.4 kg. The performance and carcass variables of the lambs were evaluated. The daily weight gain was higher in the treated group (216.24 g) than in the control group (185.90 g). The averages for loin eye area, subcutaneous fat thickness, and marbling were 13.93 cm2, 2.66 mm, and 3.20 in the treated group and 12.16 cm2, 2.6 mm, and 3.25 in the control group, respectively. The true, hot, and cold carcass yield, and the carcass cooling losses did not differ between groups. The carcasses were similar in conformation and fat finishing degree, with averages of 3.95 and 3.83, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the effect of a mycotoxin additive in the diet of finishing lambs. The use of mycotoxin adsorbent in confined lambs was feasible, and its use resulted in greater daily weight gain in lambs and average net profit.

Produção leiteira de ovelhas Texel submetidas a suplementação

A ovinocultura brasileira representa um importante segmento dentro da pecuária nacional, gerando emprego e renda ao longo da cadeia produtiva. Dentro deste segmento a produção de leite ovino ainda é incipiente no Brasil, porém apresenta grande potencial pela capacidade de agregação de valor ao produto através da produção de derivados, apreciado em mercados consumidores diferenciados. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a produção leiteira de ovelhas Texel, manejadas em campo nativo recebendo suplementação. Foram utilizadas 17 ovelhas adultas, manejadas em campo nativo recebendo 1% de ração comercial contendo 14% de proteína bruta. As ovelhas foram ordenhadas em duas oportunidades dentro do período de lactação, com auxílio de ordenhadeira mecânica e administração prévia de ocitocina. O manejo nutricional permitiu manutenção do escore de condição corporal. A produção leiteira foi considerável para o padrão da raça que não representa um biótipo leiteiro. O estudo permite inferir que existe potencial para utilização da raça Texel em sistemas de produção de leite ovino.

Характеристика росту, розвитку та м’ясних якостей молодняку овець різних генотипів

The growth, development and meat qualities characteristics of different genotypes lambs he growth and development features of three different genotypes ram-lambs, from their birth to six months age, were studied, in particular: purebred youngling of the Ascanian Fine-Fleeced breed (AFF), a cross of this gene pool with the Texel (AFFxT) and Merinolandschaf (AFFxM) breeds. Control over the growth and development these experimental animals was carried out by weighing in different age periods. The meat quality was assessed based on the slaughter results. It was found that the best development parameters were characteristic for the Texel crossbred with the Ascanian Fine-Fleeced breed; therefore, this crossing option has the meat productivity highest genetic potential. Keywords: sheep, genotype, live weight, linear parameters, growth rate.

Удосконалення та впровадження сучасних біотехнологічних методів відтворення овець в Інституті біології тварин НААН

The article presents the scientific achievements of researchers of the Institute of Animal Biology NAAS in reproductive biotechnology in sheep breeding. The Ukrainian-Polish experiment on improving the in vitro method of sheep fertilization, which ended with the birth of the first lamb in Ukraine, is covered in detail. The scientific achievements of the staff of the institute were the basis for the introduction of an improved method of laparoscopic insemination of sheep in Ukrainian farms. Laparoscopic insemination of local breeds of sheep of Lviv, Zakarpattia, Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions with sperm of sheep of specialized fat breeds was carried out and fertilization of more than 80% was obtained. Also, scientific and practical work was carried out to improve and implement methods of stimulating superovulation in ewes of the Texel breed, non-surgical washing of embryos and their transplantation to bright recipients of the Ukrainian Carpathian breed.

SELECTION AND BREEDING WORK WITH PRODUCING STOCK OF SHEEP BREEDS REARED IN BELARUS

The structure of the original producing composition (Austrian, Hungarian, Dutch, French selection) was studied; there were 67 lines with 1718 descendants. It was determined that the progenitors of the factory lines of breeds: Merinolandshafe, Texel, EIle-de-France, Suffolk are removed from their modern descendants for 3-4 generations, and in the Romanov breed for 6-8 generations, and do not have a fixed phenotypic similarity with them. At the same time, specific features of the genealogical structure are characteristic for each line, and the rams and ewe of each separate line do not have established connections with other intra-breeding elements. In studies conducted in Breeding facility "Zherebkovichi", the future work with breed merinolandschaf (16 rams) was determined, which will allow to create and test 5 lines in the breed Merinolandshafe of the Belarusian selection. In 7 lines, there is one successor, which is planned to be used for obtaining two-breed ewes, when entering the cross with the ewes of the Ascanian, Precos, and Texel breeds. When carrying out work in Breeding facility "Vitebsk plempredpriyatie", 5 lines of Dutch selection were identified in the Texel breed, and 5 lines in the Suffolk breed. In the farm "Willia-agro" of Kobrin district, 10 lines of the Suffolk breed of Belarusian selection are allocated. It is necessary to pay special attention to the possibility of exchanging breeding material between these enterprises during further selection work with the breed. It is established that according to the characteristics of the origin and expression of the desired type (with improved meat productivity), the animals available in these sheep farms can be used to create breeding groups of sheep of the meat-wool direction of productivity with improved meat qualities. It was determined that producing rams did not meet the requirements of the standard for breeds of meat and wool direction of productivity according to body weight (minus 2.8-32.8 kg), with the exception of males of the EIle-de-France breed (plus 1.6 kg). The average indicator of body weight of ewes made (67.2±0.64 kg), which exceeds the minimum requirements for breeds by 2.2 kg: Askanian, Ile-de-France, Texel, but lower for Merinolandshafe and Suffolk breeds by 7.8 and 2.8 kg, respectively. It was determined that the following measurements were found to be the most variable in rams: height at the withers (7.5±0.63 %), girth (7.11±0.60 %) and body weight (16.3±1.38 %). Similar situation is observed for ewes: height at the withers (7.1±0.35 %), girth (8.55±0.42 %) and body weight (13.8±0.67 %). It should be noted that variation ratios are small, they indicate the evenness of the linear measurements of the producing stock, which range within 20.0 %.