The repeatability of greasy wool mass: of Merino breeding ewes in the south-western Cape

Abstract

Data of 224 Merino breeding ewes, kept on artificial pasture in a favourable environment in the South Western Districts, were analysed. Means of greasy wool mass at 16, 28 and 40 months of age were respectively 8,41, 9,14 and 8,79 kg. The mean shorn body mass at 16 months of age was 50,8 kg and the number of lambs born per ewe mated was 1,05 at both 24 and 36 months of age. The mean repeatability of greasy wool production was 0,76 ± 0,024.

Data van 224 Merino-teelooie, wat op aangeplante weiding in 'n gunstige omgewing in die Suid-westelike Distrikte aangehou is, is ontleed. Die gemiddelde rouwolmassa op 16-, 18- en 40-maandeouderdom was onderskeidelik 8,41, 9,14 en 8,79 kg. Die gemiddelde kaalgeskeerde liggaamsmassa op 16-maande-ouderdom was
50,8 kg en die aantal lammers gebore per ooi gepaar was 1,05 op beide 24- en 36-maande-ouderdom. Die gemiddelde herhaalbaarheid van rouwolmassa was 0,76 ± 0,024. 

Keywords: Merino greasy wool, repeatability