Reproductive Differences between Border Leicester x Romney and
Romney Two-Tooth Ewes
W.A. Larsen and M.F. McDonald
Massey University, Palmerston North
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Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1971, 31: 176-179
Romney and Border Leicester x Romney (F1) two-tooth
ewes were studied to determine differences in ovulation rate, and
uterine capacity, after transfer of three fertilized ova, between
breeds. The crossbred ewes had a higher ovulation rate than the Romney
ewes. Distribution of litter size in ewes receiving three fertilized ova
was independent of breed of recipient ewe. In both breed groups, mean
litter size after transfer was significantly greater than potential
litter size determined by ovulation rate. Capacity of the uterus did not
seem to be a major factor limiting reproductive performance in either
breed. It was concluded that low ovulation rate severely limits
fecundity in young Romney ewes.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
Last Updated 24-08-2000
