Reviewer for Animal Science in the Agriculturist Licensure Examination.
Livestock Production
| Animal | Primary product |
|---|---|
| Cattle | Beef, milk |
| Swine | Pork |
| Poultry | Eggs, meat |
| Goat | Meat, milk |
Breeding & Genetics
Improve stock through selective breeding and artificial insemination. Crossbreeding produces hybrid vigor (heterosis).
Select breeders for high heritability traits like growth rate and feed efficiency.
Animal Nutrition
Balanced rations supply energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Ruminants (cattle, goats) digest fiber via the rumen; monogastrics (swine, poultry) need concentrated feeds.
Change ruminant feed gradually โ abrupt changes cause digestive upset like bloat or acidosis.
Feed Conversion
Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) measures efficiency:
A LOWER FCR means more efficient growth.
Before your exam, make sure you can confidently explain and apply each of the following:
- Livestock Production
- Breeding & Genetics
- Animal Nutrition
- Feed Conversion
Re-read any section above where you hesitate.