Preliminary note on mature pelvic dimensions and rearing efficiency in Merino ewes (Short communication)

Author: S.W.P. Cloete & K.G. Haughey
Year: 1988
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Page: 171 - 174

Radiographic pelvimetry was used to obtain estimated pelvic dimensions for Merino ewes, born in 1981 and available for five lambing opportunities in the Tygerhoek flock. Estimated pelvic dimensions accurately predicted dissected measurements obtained from 37 ewes that were slaughtered, as reflected by correlation coefficients higher than 0,97. In a group of 72 ewes which lambed at least four times in five opportunities, transverse and conjugate diameters were virtually uncorrelated. These ewes were classified according to their rearing efficiency as 'good' or 'poor' mothers. It was established that the 27,8% 'poor' mothers were responsible for 60,7% of the failures to rear at least one lamb to 100 days. The conjugate diameter of 'good' mothers tended (P = 0,06) to be larger than in 'poor' mothers. This tendency is supported by evidence in literature cited, which highlights the importance of pelvic measurements in rearing efficiency of ewes. Further research in this field appears to be warranted.

 

 

Keywords: Pelvic dimensions, radiographic pelvimetry, rearing ability
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