(a) Name four breeds of rabbits. [2 marks]
(b) Give two reasons why oestrus detection is important in farm animals. [2 marks]
(c) State four functions of each of the following hormones in farm animals. (i) androgen; (ii) oestrogen. [8 marks]
(d)(i) List two viral diseases of poultry. (ii) List two ecto-parasites of poultry [4 marks]
Explanation
(a)Breeds of Rabbits New Zealand white, California white, Chinchilla, Giant Flemish, New Zealand red, Champagne D'argent, Checkered giants, Beveren, Angora, Dutch, Loop, English Spot, Crosses
(b) Reasons why oestrus detection is important in farm animals - Enables the farmer to know when best his animals can be serviced - Enables the farmer to properly manage the animal - Enables the farmer to start preparation for the impending pregnancy.
(c) Functions of hormones in farm animals (
i) Androgen - Initiate spermatogenesis (sperm formation)
- Is responsible for the initiation of male secondary sex characteristics
- Maintains the sex drive (Libido)
- Enhances muscular and skeletal growth
- Reduces fat deposition
- Promotes the growth of accessory sex glands
- Sustains the life of sperms in the epididymis
(ii) Oestrogen
- Stimulates the development of female secondary sex characteristics e.g. heat behaviour
- Promotes the production of eggs through oogenesis
- It is concerned with the preparation of the uterus lining for the reception of the fertilized ovum
- It increases blood supply as well as the water content of the uterus
- It stimulates the growth of the duct system in the mammary glands (udder)
- in the oviduct, it increases cilliary activities and mucous secretion.
- Induces the rapid multiplication of epithelum in the vagina
(d)(i) Viral diseases of poultry: Newcastle, Gumboro, Mareks, Bird Flu/Avian • influenza, Fowl pox
(ii) Feto-parasites of poultry: Lice, Mites, Flea, Ticks
