Question 1
(a) Name the five main regions of the vertebral column of a sheep. [5 marks]
(b) State one specialized function of each of the regions of the vertebral
column of a sheep. [5 marks]
(c) Explain each of the following terms as used in Animal husbandry:
(i) lactation;
(ii) rumination. [6 marks]
(d) Give four reasons for providing a new-born calf with colostrum. [4 marks]
Observation
This question was fairly attempted by the candidates. In 1(a-b), majority of the candidates could neither name the main regions of the vertebral column of a sheep nor state the specialized functions of the regions of the vertebral column of a sheep.
However, in 1(c)(i – ii), most of the candidates were able to explain the terms lactation and rumination. They were also able to give the reasons for providing a new-born calf with colostrum as required 1(d).
The expected answers include:
1 (a) Main regions of the vertebral column of a sheep
- Cervical/neck region
- Thoracic/chest region
- Lumbar/abdominal region
- Sacral/pelvic region
- Coccygeal/caudal/tail region
(b) Specialized functions of the regions of the vertebral column of a sheep
Cervical/neck region: Allows head movement in all directions/supports the head
Thoracic/chest region: Site of attachment of the ribs/supports the ribs
Lumbar/abdominal region: Site of attachment of apaxial muscles and muscles for breathing/supports the abdominal region
Sacral/pelvic region: Site of attachment of hind limbs/pelvic girdle
Coccygeal/caudal/tail region: Site for insertion of the muscles that move the tail / supports the tail