Irish beef animals are graded at slaughter according to their fatness and conformation - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2010
Question a
Irish beef animals are graded at slaughter according to their fatness and conformation.
(i) Explain the term conformation.
(ii) Describe the difference in conformat... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Irish beef animals are graded at slaughter according to their fatness and conformation - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2010
Step 1
Explain the term conformation.
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Answer
Conformation refers to the shape or distribution of muscle on an animal. It is an important indicator of the animal's potential growth and meat quality, which are critical for market success.
Step 2
Describe the difference in conformation between beef cattle and dairy cattle.
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Beef cattle typically have more muscular and broad shoulders, making them appear more 'square-shaped,' while dairy cattle are generally narrower and less muscular at the shoulders and hindquarters. Because of this, beef cattle are better suited for meat production, while dairy cattle excel in milk production.
Step 3
What is the usual age for the slaughter of beef cattle in Ireland?
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The usual age for the slaughter of beef cattle in Ireland is between 2 to 2.5 years.
Step 4
Why are beef cattle slaughtered at this age?
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Beef cattle are typically slaughtered at this age to ensure they have reached optimal weight and muscle development for meat quality, which minimizes resource wastage.
Step 5
Name two breeds of sheep used for lamb production in Ireland.
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Common breeds of sheep used for lamb production in Ireland include the Texel and the Suffolk.
Step 6
What is the average weight of a lamb at birth?
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The average weight of a lamb at birth is typically around 3-6 kg.
Step 7
Describe the feeding and management of a new-born lamb.
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New-born lambs should be given colostrum from their mothers shortly after birth to ensure they receive essential antibodies. They should be kept warm using infrared lamps or suitable bedding. Additionally, young lambs may need assistance to suckle while being monitored for hygiene and health.
Step 8
What does the term creep feeding mean?
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Creep feeding refers to a system where only young animals have access to specialized feed supplements that are not available to older animals, allowing them to grow more efficiently.
Step 9
Give three advantages of creep feeding.
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Creep feeding can enhance the growth potential of young animals by providing additional nutrition.
It can lead to earlier weaning and thereby reduce the nutritional demands on the mother.
Improved health and performance are often seen in lambs that receive creep feed, as it supports balanced diets and rumen development.
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