Production benefits of breeding for worm resistance in Merino sheep in a Mediterranean environment

Abstract Text:

ABSTRACT:A replicated worm resistant and a control line of Merino sheep, were evaluated for differences in production over an eight year period. The average estimated breeding value (EBV) of faecal worm egg count (FEC) of the resistant line was 21% lower than the control line. Over the duration of the experiment, the resistant line was drenched 16% less, 1.0 to 1.5 kg heavier and produced 0.3 micron finer wool. No significant differences were found between lines in reproduction, survival rate or wool production. Results indicate that production benefits may be more pronounced under higher worm burdens than experienced in this experiment.

Keywords:

wool sheep

worm resistance

production traits