208-303 Animal Production Systems

This subject involves the use of animals in experiments. Students should be aware that these experiments are an essential part of the course and exemption from this component is not possible.

208-207 Animal Management and Production and 208-203 Ecology and Management of Grazing Systems.

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• identify the factors that drive of animal production, for a range of animal industries;

• analyse animal production systems in terms of their biological efficiency, and identify ways of improving their efficiency;

• apply scientific principles of growth, reproduction and breeding of animals to the design and management of livestock production systems; and

• apply skills in problem solving to practical situations.

This subject uses a problem-based learning approach to develop skills and knowledge in the design and management of efficient animal production systems. Generic content of the subject is covered in lectures and includes: applied animal nutrition, including cost-effective feeding practices for both intensive and extensive animal industries; reproductive management and its importance in determining animal and farm productivity; the role of genetics and its interaction with other components of the animal production system; animal management and production technologies; effects of management inputs on animal product quality; and risk management strategies for sustainable livestock production, including management of disease risk. This knowledge is developed within the context of selected livestock industries by way of practical assignments which present real-life problems, opportunities or issues for students to address.

Students are able to choose from among several problem scenarios in different modules of the subject to learn more about the industries that they are particularly interested in.

Three-hour examination (50%), plus assignments submitted during semester and totalling 5000 words.