(a) (i) Define the term brooder as used in poultry production. [2 marks] (ii) List four characteristics of a good layer. [4 marks] (b) State four reasons for providing suitable housing for livestock. [4 marks] (c) Give the scientific names of three fish species commonly stocked in a pond. [3 marks] (d) State three qualities of a good pasture plant. [3 marks]
Explanation
a)(i) Definition of a brooder: A brooder is a device in which newly hatched chicks are tended by the provision of heat until they develop enough feathers. (ii) Characteristics of a good layer: -Large well developed combs and wattles. -Bright red and smooth comb and wattles. -Bright eyes. -Moist, wide vent/cloaca. -Thin and pliable pubic bones. -Expanded, soft and pliable abdomen. -Absence of broodiness. -Soft loose skin. - Must have short clutch. - Absence of cannibalistic tendencies. -Bleached shank/beak. -Glossy plumage. -Short beak. -Broad and square head. (b) Reasons for providing suitable housing for livestock are to: -Protect animals from rain/cold weather conditions. -Protect animals from the direct rays of sunlight. -Restrict the movement of the animals. -Protect the flock from theft. -Facilitate management through grouping of livestock according to age and purpose. - Protect the young ones from danger/predator. - Prevent indiscriminate mating. - Ensure maximum utilization of feed and water. - Facilitate close observation/monitoring/veterinary care. - Prevent damage of cultivated crops. - Prevent them from contracting diseases from outside. - Prevent them from pest infestations. - Facilitate accurate record keeping. (c) Scientific names of fish species commonly stocked in a pond : -Clarias spp. -Chrysichtys nigrodigitatus - Gymnarchus niloticus -Tilapia spp. -Lates nilotica - Gyprinus carpio -Heterotis niloticus -Labeo spp, -Heterobranclues spp. - Hypothmichitys spp. (d) Qualities of a good pasture -Ability to regenerate fast after being browsed. - Ability to withstand trampling effects of the grazing animals. - Highly palatable. - High in nutrient value. - Ability to withstand extremes of climatic conditions. - Moderate moisture content/succulent. -High leaf to stem ratio.