208-207 Animal Management and Production I

On completion of this subject, students should be:

• aware of all the major inputs into an animal production system;

• aware of the products of animal production systems and product quality;

• able to understand the effects of changes in inputs and/or outputs on the efficiency of the production system;

• capable of the basic analysis of a production system;

• aware of alternative production systems; and

• capable of surveying an animal industry.

The course provides a review of the major animal production industries of Australia and includes a basic introduction to the following key issues in livestock production systems:

• the size, distribution and value of each animal industry:

• breed selection and genetic improvement;

• practical feeding of breeding and growing animals;

• optimisation of reproductive output;

• environmental effects and use of buildings;

• management regimes to maintain animal health;

• maximisation of product quality;

• production system analysis and consideration of alternatives;

• and marketing and markets.

One three-hour exam (50%) and two assignments equivalent to 3000 words (each worth 25%).