4.1 Reproductive system of a cow 4.1.1 Naming parts A Mature Graafian follicle C Ovum/egg/female reproductive cell/gamete 4.2 Hormones 4.2.2 Indication of hormone (a) Follicle stimulating hormone/FSH (b) Progesterone 4.2.3 The function of infundibulum It captures(picks up) the ova/channel ova into the fallopian tube 4.3 Embryo transplantation 4.3.1 Identification of the process Embryo transplantation/transfer/ET 4.3.2 TWO advantages of ET to farmers 4.3.3 The term referring to the cow that is (a) Donor cow (b) Recipient/surrogate cow 4.4 Artificial Insemination (AI) 4.4.1 TWO characteristics of good quality semen 4.4.2 Functions of the diluents of semen 4.4.3 TWO disadvantages of AI 4.4.4 TWO congenital defects in bulls 4.5 The membrane layers around the embryo 4.5.1 Identification of the membranes A Allantois D Chorion 4.5.2 TWO functions of the fluid in B 4.5.3 The role of membrane D 4.5.4 The last stage of pregnancy 4.6 The milk production of a dairy cow 4.6.1 Identification of the process illustrated above Lactation 4.6.2 Indication of the time (in weeks) when the following occurred (a) Week 44 (b) Week 0 (c) Week 4 4.6.3 THREE factors influencing the quantity of milk produced during the peak production - NSC Agricultural Sciences - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1

(a) The follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is crucial for the development of ovarian follicles. It stimulates the growth of mature ovarian follicles. (b) Progesterone is important for maintaining the uterine lining after ovulation and is crucial for pregnancy.

The infundibulum plays a vital role by capturing the ovum released from the ovary and directing it to the fallopian tube for potential fertilization.

Embryo transplantation (ET) is a reproductive technology used to transfer embryos into a recipient cow, which helps in breeding and genetic variety.

1. ET allows for genetic improvement by enabling farmers to use superior genetics from exceptional animals, thereby improving herd quality.
2. It helps prevent the extinction of valuable breeds and allows for the production of animals with better disease resistance.

(a) The donor cow is the cow from which the embryos are harvested. (b) The recipient cow, also known as a surrogate cow, is the one that will carry the embryos to term.

1. Good quality semen should have a viability/motility rate of at least 80% and less than 15% dead sperm cells.
2. It should be colour/opaque/milky and have an appropriate volume and odour.

1. Diluents provide energy for sperm cells, ensuring they remain viable during storage.
2. They protect sperm cells against temperature changes and damage that may occur during freezing.

1. Artificial insemination is a labour-intensive procedure that requires skilled operators, which can be time-consuming.
2. The risk of spreading diseases and genetic abnormalities is higher if not managed properly.

1. Cryptorchidism is a condition where one or both testicles have not descended into the scrotum.
2. Hermaphroditism occurs when a bull possesses both male and female reproductive organs.

A. The allantois is a membrane involved in waste storage and gas exchange. D. The chorion is the outer membrane that surrounds the embryo and contributes to the formation of the placenta.

1. The fluid protects the embryo against shock and helps to keep it nourished and hydrated.
2. It also protects against temperature changes and provides lubrication during birth.

Membrane D connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall and plays a critical role in attachment and the formation of the placenta.

The last stage of pregnancy is called the foetal stage, during which the fetus undergoes significant growth and development.

The process illustrated is lactation, which is the production of milk by the mammary glands of the cow.

(a) Week 44 is indicative of the late gestation period. (b) Week 0 indicates the time of calving. (c) Week 4 follows calving, where the cow begins to produce milk.

1. Nutrition plays a vital role in ensuring the cow has the necessary energy and nutrients to produce milk.
2. Environmental conditions, such as shelter and comfort, affect milk production significantly.
3. Individuality of the cow may lead to variability in milk yield based on her genetics and health status.