Numbered Publications: ASC
ASC-211: Expected Progeny Differences: Trait Definitions and Utilizing Percentile Tables
Sean Bessin, Darrh Bullock | Feb. 7, 2014 (New)
Expected progeny differences (EPDs) are useful tools in providing the best estimate of the genetic value of a particular animal as a parent. Differences in EPDs between parents of the same breed predict the performance differences of their future offspring if environmental factors are the same. EPD values should not be compared between breeds; for example, you should not compare an Angus bull's weaning weight EPD with a Simmental bull's weaning weight EPD. Most established breeds have EPDs for calving ease, growth, maternal, and carcass traits. When used properly, producers can make genetic improvements to their herd through parental selection. This publication is intended to help producers better understand EPDs and how one might use them in selection of replacement animals.
ASC-205: Selecting Feeds for Horses
Fernanda Camargo, Laurie Lawrence | Jan. 6, 2014 (New)
Feeds should be selected with the nutrient requirements of the horse in mind, recognizing that requirements vary with the life stage of the horse (growing, pregnant, lactating, working, idle). Feeds for horses should always be clean and free from toxins. Feeds should also promote gastrointestinal health. The large intestine (cecum and colon) of the digestive tract contains a diverse population of beneficial microbes that can easily be upset by poor feed selection. In nature horses will spend more than 50% of their time grazing; therefore, feed that promotes similar feeding behavior may be desirable. Once appropriate feeds have been selected, it is important that they are fed in the correct amounts using good feeding management strategies.
ASC-202: Avian Skeletal System
Jacquie Jacob, Tony Pescatore | Nov. 20, 2013 (New)
All animals have a skeleton to allow them to stand up and to protect their internal organs and tissues. The avian skeletal system looks similar to those of their mammalian counterparts, but there are some important differences.
ASC-201: Avian Female Reproductive System
Jacquie Jacob, Tony Pescatore | Nov. 20, 2013 (New)
Anyone raising poultry for eggs, whether for eating or for incubation, should have an understanding of the reproductive system. This will help them understand any problems that may occur and how to correct them.
ASC-203: Avian Digestive System
Jacquie Jacob, Tony Pescatore | Nov. 20, 2013 (New)
An understanding of the avian digestive system is essential to developing an effective and economical feeding program for your poultry flock. Knowledge of avian anatomy, and what the parts normally look like, will also help you to recognize when something is wrong and take the necessary actions to correct the problem.
ASC-204: Avian Muscular System
Jacquie Jacob, Tony Pescatore | Nov. 19, 2013 (New)
If you raise poultry for meat, it is always a good idea to have an understanding of the muscular system of poultry so you can better understand any problems that may occur and how to correct them.
ASC-199: Avian Male Reproductive System
Jacquie Jacob, Tony Pescatore | Nov. 1, 2013 (New)
The avian male reproductive system is all inside the bird, unlike the males of mammalian species which have their reproductive systems outside of the body. This is one of the really remarkable things about birds; the sperm remain viable at body temperature.
ASC-200: Avian Respiratory System
Jacquie Jacob, Tony Pescatore | Nov. 1, 2013 (New)
Knowledge of avian anatomy and what the parts normally look like will help you to recognize when something is wrong and to take the necessary actions to correct the problem.
ASC-196: Selecting Geese
Jacquie Jacob, Tony Pescatore | Oct. 31, 2013 (New)
Size, behavior and egg production vary according to breed, and the right breed of goose for your flock will depend on what you intend to use them for. This publication will help you decide on the right breed for you.
ASC-209: Raising Guinea Fowl
Jacquie Jacob, Tony Pescatore | Oct. 31, 2013 (New)
Guinea fowl are rough, vigorous, hardy, and mostly disease-free game birds. They are increasing in popularity for a variety of reasons.