Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The increasing global population demands higher livestock productivity, necessitating a focus on traits of economic importance in animals. These traits are characteristics that directly impact the profitability and efficiency of livestock farming. For instance, higher milk yield in dairy cows or increased meat production in poultry are directly linked to farmer income. The National Livestock Mission (NLM), launched in 2014, recognizes the need to improve livestock genetics and productivity through selective breeding and improved management practices. This answer will detail these traits and their significance in enhancing livestock production.
Traits of Economic Importance in Livestock
Traits of economic importance are measurable characteristics of livestock that influence their productivity and profitability. Breeders select animals exhibiting superior traits to improve the overall genetic potential of the herd or flock.
Production Traits
These traits directly relate to the quantity of product obtained from the animal.
- Milk Yield (Dairy Cattle): Measured in liters per lactation. Higher yields increase farmer income.
- Meat Yield (Poultry, Pigs, Cattle): Refers to the amount of edible meat produced per animal. Efficiency in feed conversion is also critical.
- Egg Production (Poultry): Number of eggs laid per hen per year. Egg quality (size, shell strength, yolk color) is also important.
- Wool Production (Sheep): Measured in kilograms of wool produced per sheep annually.
Reproductive Traits
These traits affect the ability of animals to reproduce successfully.
- Fertility Rate: Number of offspring produced per female. Higher fertility rates increase herd/flock size.
- Gestation Period: Shorter gestation periods allow for faster turnover and increased production.
- Age at First Breeding: Earlier breeding age allows for earlier production.
- Weaning Weight (Ruminants): Heavier weaning weights indicate better growth and survival rates in young animals.
Health Traits
Resistance to diseases and efficient feed utilization are key for productivity.
- Disease Resistance: Ability to withstand common livestock diseases, reducing treatment costs and mortality rates. For example, resistance to Bovine Tuberculosis in cattle.
- Feed Efficiency: Ability to convert feed into product efficiently, reducing feed costs.
- Longevity: Longer productive lifespan increases overall output.
Quality Traits
These traits determine the market value of the product.
- Meat Quality (Cattle, Pigs): Marbling, tenderness, and flavor are crucial for consumer acceptance.
- Milk Quality (Dairy Cattle): Fat content, protein content, and somatic cell count influence price.
- Eggshell Strength (Poultry): Affects shelf life and reduces breakage during handling.
| Trait Category | Specific Trait | Economic Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Production | Milk Yield | Increased income for dairy farmers |
| Production | Meat Yield | Higher profitability for meat producers |
| Reproduction | Fertility Rate | Increased herd/flock size |
| Health | Disease Resistance | Reduced treatment costs and mortality |
| Quality | Meat Quality | Higher market price for meat |
Genetic improvement programs, utilizing techniques like Artificial Insemination (AI) and embryo transfer, play a vital role in selecting and propagating animals with desirable traits. The Rashtriya Gokul Mission, launched in 2014, aims to conserve and improve indigenous breeds of cattle, focusing on traits like milk production and disease resistance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, traits of economic importance are critical for enhancing livestock productivity and ensuring food security. A holistic approach encompassing production, reproduction, health, and quality traits is essential. Continued research and application of advanced breeding technologies, coupled with effective government schemes like the National Livestock Mission, are vital to improve livestock genetics and contribute to the economic prosperity of farmers and the nation. Focusing on these traits is not only economically beneficial but also contributes to sustainable livestock farming practices.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.