Animal Breeding (5cr)

Objectives (course unit)

The student know the breeding goals of different farm animals. The student can explain the present practices used in the breeding of cattle and pigs mainly. The student can make a summary about the principles of mating planning at herd level and can evaluate the effects of a mating plan. The student can explain the significance of breeding goals and practices used on production and sustainable development in animal production.

Content (course unit)

Heredity, breeding goals of different animals, genetic evaluation, reading of Finnish and international breeding values, herd level mating plans, evaluation of the effects of a mating plan, progress in genetic gain, legislation, ethical considerations.

Prerequisites (course unit)

Basic knowledge of Finnish animal production and documentation of production. Basic of farm animal housing and welfare or similar knowledge.

Assessment methods and criteria

Approved assignments.

Assessment scale

1-5

Teaching methods

Independend webbased learning. Possibility to get guidance to assignments.

Learning materials

Aro, J., Niemi, A., Toivonen, M., & Vahlsten, T. (2020). Testaa ja valitse: Lypsykarjanjalostuksella tuloksiin (1. painos.). Opetushallitus. Jokela, M., Ahola-Launonen, J., Oja-Leikas, M., & Rova, M. (2017). Kiehtovat geenit: Mihin geenitietoa käytetään? (1. painos.). Duodecim.

Student workload

Totally 130 h.

Further information

Nonstop toteutus. Suoritusajan voi valita vapaasti 1.8.2024-31.7.2025 väliseltä ajalta.