Statistical modelling of grazing preference of sheep when presented with a range of plant types

A statistical model of the grazing preference of sheep is presented for the evaluation of spaced plants in small plots for plant breeding purposes. Plants are located randomly to reduce the effect of external factors on diet selection, and to differentiate between discriminatory and random grazing....

Ausführliche Beschreibung

Gespeichert in:
Bibliographische Detailangaben
Veröffentlicht in:The Journal of agricultural science 2001-02, Vol.136 (1), p.111-117
Hauptverfasser: REAL, D., GORDON, I. L., HODGSON, J.
Format: Artikel
Sprache:eng
Schlagworte:
Online-Zugang:Volltext
Tags: Tag hinzufügen
Keine Tags, Fügen Sie den ersten Tag hinzu!
Beschreibung
Zusammenfassung:A statistical model of the grazing preference of sheep is presented for the evaluation of spaced plants in small plots for plant breeding purposes. Plants are located randomly to reduce the effect of external factors on diet selection, and to differentiate between discriminatory and random grazing. Consistency of discrimination among grazings and sites (Massey University, New Zealand and INIA La Estanzuela, Uruguay) was tested. The statistical design and subsequent analyses considered all sources of variation to minimize error, and to separate genetic effects from environment effects. Clonal replicates were used to enhance error-control, and hence the precision of heritability estimates, as most characters are inherited quantitatively. Post-grazing leafiness is considered the best character to select and breed for animal preference in a red clover germplasm.
ISSN:0021-8596
1469-5146
DOI:10.1017/S0021859600008418