Zerasca ovine breed is an important example of the close connection between Italian husbandry and the environment. The scientific aim of this research was to characterize breeding techniques and zoometrical traits of that population, which is now beginning to be recognized and supported. All the 37 farms studied in the Lunigiana district were inspected directly, in order to collect livestock data (2143 subjects), while biometrical records were created on a sample of 83 purebred animals belonging to four farms. Our results revealed interesting characteristics as well as the adaptability of sheep and lambs from Zeri, especially in relation to the long grazing periods and adverse climatic conditions. In addition, the evolution of morphological traits and the influence of past crosses made to increase productivity underline the need to safeguard the Zerasca population’s strong bond with the ecosystem and its role as a significant economic resource of livestock biodiversity.

Characterization of Zerasca ovine population: breeding management and zoometric data

GIULIOTTI, LORELLA;BENVENUTI, MARIA NOVELLA;
2005-01-01

Abstract

Zerasca ovine breed is an important example of the close connection between Italian husbandry and the environment. The scientific aim of this research was to characterize breeding techniques and zoometrical traits of that population, which is now beginning to be recognized and supported. All the 37 farms studied in the Lunigiana district were inspected directly, in order to collect livestock data (2143 subjects), while biometrical records were created on a sample of 83 purebred animals belonging to four farms. Our results revealed interesting characteristics as well as the adaptability of sheep and lambs from Zeri, especially in relation to the long grazing periods and adverse climatic conditions. In addition, the evolution of morphological traits and the influence of past crosses made to increase productivity underline the need to safeguard the Zerasca population’s strong bond with the ecosystem and its role as a significant economic resource of livestock biodiversity.
2005
9789076998862
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11568/98194
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