You are currently viewing Results from a project looking at the influence of genetics on sheep health in Ireland

Results from a project looking at the influence of genetics on sheep health in Ireland

FootrotThe objective to this study was to quantify the genetic variation in foot lesion scores, fecal egg count (FEC) and dag score of lambs, and to examine the relationship between lamb health and performance. In this study over 20,000 lambs were recorded, across 29 crossbred flocks. Lamb performance data was also recorded and some interesting results were found.

  • Footrot was recorded in 7% of the animals recorded with a lower incidence rate recorded in females, as well as in the Texel and Belclare breeds
  • Lambs genetically susceptible to foot problems were also susceptible to high FEC
  • Lower dag scores were associated with higher lamb live-weights

For more information click here (pdf)