Observation

Question 2 was not popular among candidates and few of them who attempted this question recorded poor marks.
(a)        Many candidates interchanged the answers in Question 2(a)(i) with 2(a)(ii). Some candidates mentioned the advantages of artificial insemination instead of introduction.
(b)       Some candidates listed types of breeding e.g. outcrossing, crossbreeding e.t.c. as the
            methods of artificial selection .
(c)        Very few candidates were able to give the physical features of animals which could be
             selected for breeding. Some candidates mentioned the behavioural attributes of farm
             animals.

The expected answers include:
(a)        (i)         Advantages of introduction in animal improvement programme

• It brings animals of desirable traits into the farm
• Results in improved breeding program
• It brings variety into the farm⁄ genetic diversity
• Enhances productivity⁄ high productivity
• Helps to incorporate and stabilize desirable traits in the farm
• Perform better and are able to adapt to local conditions
• Resistance to pests
• Resistance to diseases

            (ii)        Disadvantages of selection in animal improvement programme

• May lead to elimination of some existing desirable traits
• It is time consuming
• It is expensive/high cost is needed
• It is tedious and stressful
• It requires skilled labour or expertise
• No new desirable characteristics are introduced
• Requires up to date records which may not be present
• No guarantee that the desired traits would be passed on to the offspring
• Mutation could occur

 (b)       Methods of artificial selection           

• Mass selection⁄ individual selection
• Progeny selection
• Family selection
• Pedigree selection
• Within family selection⁄  sib selection

 (c)       Physical features of animals to be selected for breeding

• Good body conformation of animals
• Animals with good dentition and jaw/beak
• Animals with good feet/legs
• Animals with good coat/plumage colour
• Animals without deformity in male/female reproductive organs
• Animals with appropriate number of teat
• Active when allowed to move/thriftiness
• No discharge from orifices
• Male must have high libido
• Good temperament

                                                                                                                       
(d)       Features of a good laying chicken

• Possession of glossy plumage⁄ attractive feathers
• Possession of wide, moist cloaca
• Bright red comb and wattle
• Consistent optimal feed intake
• Consistent optimal water intake
• Soft and pliable abdomen
• Broad flexible pelvic bone
• Absence of broodiness
• Strong and well curved beak
• Bright eyes which are well opened and alert
• Small, lean and proportionate head
• Short and strong neck
• Smooth and oily skin
• Broad and straight back
• Long, deep and proportionate body