investigation into production and reproduction …

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2020

Published by

Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

Design and layout by:

Directorate: Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute

Private Bag X529, Middelburg, 5900

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CONTENTS

Identification of genomic regions associated with body weight and reproduction in two South African sheep

breeds ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 1

Evaluation of maternal breeding values for early body weights as selection criteria in Dohne Merino sheep ........................ 6

Establishment of a reference population for future implementation of genomic breeding values for the South

African Merino sheep breed ................................................................................................................................................... 10

Genome-wide association study to identify genetic markers associated with resistance to Haemonchus contortus in

sheep ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 13

Measurement of morphometric traits and assessment of subjective traits determining body conformation at various

ages in Dohne Merino sheep .................................................................................................................................................. 16

Prediction of tail weight from tail measurements in Namaqua Afrikaner sheep .................................................................... 21

Description and comparison of different mating and kidding systems used in the South African Angora goat

industry .................................................................................................................................................................................. 25

Studies on the detection, control by vaccination and the genetics of Ovine Johne’s Disease ................................................ 30

Establishment of the South African biological reserve for small stock research and conservation ....................................... 33

Establishment and maintenance of live flocks of the endangered Namaqua Afrikaner sheep breed in South Africa ............ 35

Maintenance of two Merino flocks as resource flocks for research and reference flocks for a biological bank for

Merino sheep in South Africa ................................................................................................................................................ 39

Maintenance of an Afrino flock as resource for research and as reference flock for a biological bank for Afrino

sheep in South Africa ............................................................................................................................................................. 43

Blood and DNA bank for genomic research in sheep and goat breeds in South Africa ......................................................... 47

Satansbos monitoring and control .......................................................................................................................................... 53

Other Pasture Science projects ............................................................................................................................................... 55

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Preface

The Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (GADI) is situated near the town of Middelburg in the Eastern

Cape and the institution serves the small stock sector of the country. It hosts the Grootfontein College of Agriculture

and has the expertise to provide the highly sought-after education of its small stock focused curriculum. The College is

fully accredited as an institution of higher learning. In addition, the institute is a key role-player in sheep and goat

production research nationally and has built a knowledge base that supports the profitability and sustainability of the

small stock sector and enhances natural resource management in small stock producing areas. The research program is

strongly client-driven and is financially supported by the industry.

This report gives an account of the research activities and outputs of the institute. For monitoring and evaluation of

progress with the research and development (R&D) program, researchers are annually requested to submit

comprehensive progress reports on each individual R&D project by the end of July. For this, data collected to date in

each project are analysed and reported. For obvious reasons, the preliminary results reported in some progress reports

cannot be released, as they might be misleading or may be misinterpreted. Therefore, this research report only contains

abstracts from the comprehensive progress reports for the 2019-2020 reporting period. The publications mentioned in

the reports are available on the GADI website (http://gadi.agric.za/articles.php) or from the respective authors.

The key clients of the GADI program are farmers (commercial, small holder and subsistence), learners (students),

national and provincial departments of agriculture, agricultural industries, as well as district and local municipalities.

The interests of most land users are represented by the departments of agriculture (national and provincial), commodity

organisations, agribusiness, breeders’ associations and organised agriculture. As GADI’s R&D program is largely

driven by client needs, different stakeholders financially support many of the research projects. The stakeholders

provided approximately 77% of the operational cost of the GADI R&D program during 2019-2020. Financial support

during the reporting period was obtained from Cape Wools SA, Red Meat Research and Development SA and the

Thünen Institute (Germany). Financial support from different stakeholders to the GADI R&D program is administrated

through the Small Stock Research Trust.

Other stakeholders and research partners who contributed towards the GADI R&D program in the form of physical

execution of research projects are:

• Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (Cradock and Dohne Experimental

Stations)

• Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (Carnarvon, Karakul and

Koopmansfontein Experimental Stations)

• Western Cape Department of Agriculture (Elsenburg Directorate of Animal Sciences)

• 18 commercial farmers and their farm workers in five provinces

• BKB.

The COVID-19 pandemic that hit South Africa in March 2020 caused the President to declare a state of disaster in the

country. Different stages of lockdown were enforced, starting with a total lockdown at Level 5 from 27 March. This

was reduced to lockdown level 4 on 1 May and level 3 on 1 June. During levels 5 and 4, no research activities could

take place, while limited activities were resumed during level 3 since 1 June 2020. Therefore, some project activities

could not take place as stipulated in the project proposals. Different projects were affected to various degrees. This will

be discussed in each project abstract.

1

Identification of genomic regions associated with body weight and reproduction in two South

African sheep breeds

M.A. Snyman & S. Sűllwald

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project was to identify genomic regions associated with body weight and reproduction in two South

African sheep breeds.

The objectives of this project were to:

• Obtain blood samples of the identified animals from the GADI-Biobank

• Isolate DNA from the blood samples

• Genotype samples with the Illumina® Ovine SNP50 BeadChip

• Perform principal component analyses to identify clusters of genetically divergent animals in terms of

reproduction and growth within and among flocks

• Perform a genome-wide association study to identify genes associated with body weight and reproduction in the

three flocks

• Contribute genomic data to the South African reference sheep population data bank.

BACKGROUND

This project was done as an MSc study as part of project AP1/17/2: “Genome-wide association study to identify

possible genetic markers (SNPs) associated with reproduction and body weight in different sheep flocks”. This project

will lay the basis for a further in-depth genome-wide association study.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Phenotypic data, pedigrees and genotypes available on animals of the Afrino flock at the Carnarvon Experimental

Station, the fine wool Merino stud at Cradock Experimental Station and the Merino stud at Grootfontein Agricultural

Development Institute (GADI) were used in this study. These resources were obtained from the GADI-Biobank.

Phenotypic traits included in the study were body weight recorded at selection age at 14 months of age (BW), number

of lambs born (NLB), number of lambs weaned (NLW) and total weight of lamb weaned (TWW). For each flock,

animals with a range of low to high estimated breeding values (EBVs) for all traits were selected amongst the animals

with available genotypes in the GADI-Biobank. A total of 411 genotypes, comprising 152 Afrino, 129 Cradock Merino

and 130 Grootfontein Merino animals, were included.

The individual genomic datasets for each flock were updated with Oar v4.0 SNP Chimp that was downloaded from the

SNPchiMp v.3 database. Only five animals did not meet the quality standards and their genotypes were excluded from

further analyses. The total number of SNPs retained after quality control was 42117 for the Afrino, 46196 for the

Cradock Merino and 43655 for the Grootfontein Merino datasets. Admixture plots were used to indicate the population

structures that were based on the proportion of shared ancestral SNP genotypes. Principal Component Analyses (PCA)

were performed to investigate the genetic relatedness of individuals within and between the populations using the

merged dataset comprising all three flocks. For the genome-wide association study (GWAS) the Afrino, Cradock

Merino and Grootfontein Merino datasets were analysed separately for each flock and each trait, using the software

Efficient Mixed Model Association Expedited (EMMAX). Results from the association analyses were visualised by

creating manhattan plots in R-studio. From the manhattan plots SNP markers associated with reproduction and body

weight were identified. Genes associated with these SNPs were identified and further investigated.

RESULTS

Genetic relatedness within and between populations

The relatedness within and between the three populations is illustrated by the PCA shown in Figure 1. All three

populations, namely the Afrino, Cradock Merino and Grootfontein Merino, cluster according to geographical region

and show flock structure. The Afrino population forms a tight cluster separate from the two Merino populations. The

two Merino populations, Cradock and Grootfontein, show two clusters based on their respective populations and

geographical origin, with some overlapping of individuals between the two populations. This genetic relatedness

between the two Merino populations could be attributed to the use of the same rams in these two populations.

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-0.150

-0.100

-0.050

0.000

0.050

0.100

-0.100 -0.050 0.000 0.050 0.100

Pri

ncip

al

Co

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on

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Principal Component 1

Afrino

Cradock Merino

Grootfontein Merino

Figure 1. Genetic relationships among the 406 sheep for the first and second principal components

Admixture analysis performed on the merged dataset indicated that the lowest cross-validation error was at K=3.

Therefore, the population substructure for the three populations is illustrated in Figure 2 for K=3. From Figure 2 it is

clear that the two sheep breeds have their own distinct ancestral backgrounds and this confirms the results shown in the

PCA plot in Figure 1. It is also evident that the Cradock Merino population shows some admixture with the

Grootfontein Merino population, due to the sharing of sires.

Afrino Cradock Merino Grootfontein Merino

Figure 2. Population structure plot (K=3) of the three sheep populations

SNPs and genes in association with body weight and the reproductive traits

For the Afrino population three suggestive SNPs were identified with a putative association with BW. Two SNPs were

situated on chromosome three (s10640.1, OAR3_195631696.1) and one on chromosome fourteen

(OAR14_56900862.1). No suggestive SNPs were identified in the Cradock Merino population, while one suggestive

SNP (OAR9_64654880.1) in association with BW was identified for the Grootfontein Merino population on

chromosome nine.

Two suggestive SNPs located on chromosome one (s27280.1; OAR1_10554666.1) were identified for the Cradock

Merino population for NLB. No suggestive SNPs were identified for either the Afrino population or the Grootfontein

Merino population.

Again, two suggestive SNPs associated with NLW were identified in the Cradock Merino population. These two SNPs

were situated on chromosomes one and four respectively. For the Grootfontein Merino population there was only one

suggestive SNP (OAR2_150119548.1) identified on chromosome two in putative association with NLW. No

suggestive SNPs were identified in the Afrino population.

Only one suggestive SNP (OAR7_76295917.1) with a putative association with TWW was identified on chromosome

seven in the Afrino flock. In the Cradock Merino flock one suggestive SNP located on chromosome one (s27280.1)

was identified that had a putative association with TWW. No suggestive SNPs were identified in the Grootfontein

Merino population.

Some of the SNPs were associated with all three reproductive traits. In the Afrino population SNP OAR7_76295917.1

was above the suggestive line for TWW and approached the suggestive lines for both NLB and NLW. In the Cradock

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Merino population two SNPs (s27280.1 and OAR4_28838482_X.1) were associated with more than one trait. SNP

marker s27280.1 was found to be suggestive for all three reproductive traits namely NLB, NLW and TWW, while

OAR4_28838482_X.1) was suggestive for NLW and approached the suggestive line for TWW.

Possible genes associated with the identified suggestive SNP markers were obtained from the Ensembl database. Seven

of the putative SNPs were associated with thirteen genes. The SNPs, their positions and associated genes are

summarised in Table 1. Of the four suggestive SNPs identified in the Afrino population, only two were associated with

previously annotated genes. In total, six genes were associated with these two SNP markers in the Afrino population.

Each of the three suggestive SNPs identified in the Cradock Merino population was associated with a gene. The same

applied for the Grootfontein Merino flock, where both identified suggestive SNPs were in association with genes.

Table 1. Suggestive SNPs identified in the populations with their associated genes

SNP OAR SNP

Position Flock

Reference

SNP name Trait Gene

s10640.1 3 183769978 Afrino rs412166010 BW -

OAR3_195631696.1 3 181430556 Afrino rs404340346 BW -

OAR7_76295917.1 7 69590358 Afrino rs411617467 TWW SIX6

C14orf39

OAR14_56900862.1 14 53769443 Afrino rs420470779 BW

BSPH1

LIG1

CABP5

ELSPBP1

s27280.1 1 11378621 Cradock

Merino rs415733675

NLB

NLW

TWW

GRIK3

OAR1_10554666.1 1 10806824 Cradock

Merino rs430430819 NLB MAP7D1

OAR4_28838482_X.1 4 27440899 Cradock

Merino rs430227025 NLW HDAC9

OAR2_150119548.1 2 141206227 Grootfontein

Merino rs429823566 NLW

XIRP2

ENSOARG00000022371

OAR9_64654880.1 9 61385044 Grootfontein

Merino rs398224229 BW

TRPS1

ENSOARG00000026539

DISCUSSION

Nine suggestive SNPs were identified in the GWAS performed on the three sheep populations. Of these, four SNPs on

OAR3, OAR9 and OAR14 were associated with body weight, and five SNPs found on OAR1, OAR2, OAR4 and

OAR7 were associated with the reproductive traits. Two of the four suggestive SNPs associated with body weight in

the current study were situated close to or with-in candidate genes, namely one (OAR9_64654880.1) on OAR 9

identified in the Grootfontein Merino sheep, and another (OAR14_56900862.1) on OAR 14 identified in the Afrino

population. The SNP OAR9_64654880.1 was situated within the TRPS1 gene and in close proximity of the

ENSOARG00000026539 gene, while SNP OAR14_56900862.1 was close to the genes BSPH1, LIG1, CABP5 and

ELSPBP1.

TRPS1 is a transcriptional repressor protein that influences GATA binding. The gene is also a negative regulator of

RNA polymerase II transcription and involved in the development of the skeletal system. An association of TRPS1

with post weaning growth rate in sheep was reported. Several other studies reported the involvement of TRPS1 in

economically important traits such as mammary gland morphogenesis and development in dairy cattle, carcass weight

and eye muscle area in beef cattle and hair growth in cashmere goats. This gene should be further investigated in terms

of its role in body weight in sheep.

The gene ontology databases reported BSPH1 to be involved in spermatid development, more specifically in the

binding protein that binds sperm in vitro and promotes sperm capacitation. In a study on litter size in Finnsheep and

Texel sheep and their F1-crosses, the BSPH1 gene was expressed in both crosses. No previous literature provide

evidence that it is associated or involved with body weight or growth in sheep.

The LIG1 gene is primarily involved in DNA ligase activity and DNA/RNA repair and replication. A GWAS

investigated calf birth weight in Holstein cattle and identified LIG1 in the pooled SNPs that could possibly have an

association with body weight. In another study, LIG1 was also identified as a novel, possibly growth-related gene.

Both studies could not directly link the LIG1 gene to body weight or growth, but both reported the gene to be involved

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in the underlying mechanisms of growth. The current study adds to this body of evidence, and the gene should be

further investigated in terms of its role in body weight.

Literature reported that the ELSPBP1 gene is involved in the quality control mechanisms of epididymal maturation of

sperm and phosphorylcholine-binding activity during ejaculation. However, no literature supports the gene’s

involvement in body weight or growth.

From the five suggestive SNPs associated with the reproduction traits, two were in association with NLB (s27280.1

and OAR1_10554666.1), three with NLW (s27280.1, OAR2_150119548.1 and OAR4_28838482_X.1) and two with

TWW (s27280.1 and OAR7_76295917.1).

SNP s27280.1 that was identified in the Cradock Merino is of most interest as it was associated with all three

reproductive traits. This specific SNP is in close proximity to the GRIK3 gene, which is involved in nervous system

processes, regulation of membrane potential, synaptic transmissions and involved in the signalling pathway of the

glutamate receptor. Studies done on livestock found the GRIK3 gene to be associated with age at first egg in chickens

and with temperament and behavioural traits in cattle.

The OAR4_28838482_X.1 SNP identified in the Cradock population was linked to the HDAC9 gene. Gene-ontology

databases identified the HDAC9 gene as a histone deacetyl protein that plays an important role in regulating

transcription and cell cycle events like progression and development. The current study supports previous literature

that suggested that the gene could be involved in reproduction, fertility and weight or growth in vivo. Several studies

done on livestock associated the HDAC9 gene with skeletal muscle development and possibly with carcass and meat

traits. In cattle it was found that the gene was important in sperm quality in Holstein bulls to maintain spermatogonia

of stem cells during cell differentiation and ageing. Further investigation into the HDAC9 gene specifically for weight

and litter number is warranted.

The SNP OAR2_150119548.1 identified in the Grootfontein Merino population was associated with NLW and in close

proximity to the gene XIRP2. XIRP2 gene encodes a cytoskeletal protein that is part of the actin family, which is

involved in cellular and intra-cellular processes. A recent study revealed that XIRP2 gene is involved in type one

skeletal muscle fibres that are oxidative fibres that fatigue slowly. Further studies found the gene in pigs to be

associated with pork quality, meat quality in goats and in cattle to be associated with meat quality and feed efficiency.

In the current study the gene was in association with NLW, however no other studies linked the gene to reproduction

or prolificacy in livestock.

Regarding TWW, SNP OAR7_76295917.1 was identified in the Afrino population to be closely situated to two genes

namely SIX6 and C14orf39. The SIX6 gene is involved in eye development, transcription regulation, sensory system

and anatomical structure development. In previous literature the SIX6-Box has been directly linked to growth in cattle

and cashmere production in goat breeds. More recent studies on cattle and goats concur that the SIX6 gene is involved

in pituitary gland development, which influences downstream hormone production involved in puberty and growth of

animals. The studies conducted in cattle reported that the gene influences the expression and regulation of

gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This is an important growth hormone that affects puberty and reproduction in

livestock, and warrants further investigation.

It is interesting to note that two of the genes (BSPH1 and ELSPBP1) associated with body weight in the Afrino

population in fact are involved in the regulation of reproductive processes. Similarly, three of the genes associated with

reproduction (SIX6, XIRP2 and HDAC9) seem to also affect growth and carcass traits. In the case of SIX6 this is

understandable, as TWW comprised both the number of lambs as well as the weight of the lambs. Comparable results

have been reported for the LCORL gene. This gene encodes a transcription factor that appears to function in

spermatogenesis. Polymorphisms in this gene are associated with measures of skeletal frame size and adult height in

humans, growth and carcass traits in cattle and height in horses. The LCORL gene has also been identified in

association with growth and carcass traits and parasite resistance in sheep. The question could be asked if a similar

situation applied here or did continued simultaneous selection for body weight and reproduction in the flock, resulted

in genes that are located near to each other but affecting different traits, to become fixed?

PUBLICATIONS

None to date.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

In the current study GWAS was successfully used to identify regions of significance associated with body weight and

reproductive traits. Seven SNP markers were identified in the current study that were associated with known genes.

Gene ontology of the identified chromosomal regions identified six genes for body weight traits and seven genes

associated with reproduction traits in this study. Evidence in literature also links some of the identified genes to body

weight and reproduction. The genes (SNPs) LIG1 (OAR14_56900862.1), TRPS1 (OAR9_64654880.1), SIX6

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(OAR7_76295917.1), HDAC9 (OAR4_28838482_X.1) and XIRP2 (OAR2_150119548.1) show the most promise in

terms of candidate genes for improvement of reproduction and growth traits. Before recommendations regarding the

possible use of LIG1, TRPS1, HDAC9, SIX6 and XIRP2 in breeding plans could be made, their role in body weight and

growth traits in sheep should be clarified. For reproduction and fertility traits, the following genes require further

investigation: HDAC9 and SIX6. A more comprehensive GWAS incorporating more genotypes should be done to

verify these results.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The GADI-Biobank, the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform and the Northern Cape

Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development are acknowledged for the use of their resources. This

work was supported by partial funding from Cape Wools South Africa.

6

Evaluation of maternal breeding values for early body weights as selection criteria in Dohne

Merino sheep

W.J. Olivier

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to evaluate maternal breeding values for early body weights as selection criteria in Dohne

Merino sheep.

The objectives of this project are to:

• Quantify the genetic relationships between growth and reproductive traits in the Grootfontein Dohne Merino stud

with regard to:

o Direct and maternal correlations of early body weights with body weight later in life

o Direct and maternal correlations of early body weight with reproductive traits (fertility, prolificacy, lamb

survival and weight of lamb weaned)

o Direct and maternal correlations of early body weights with fleece traits

• Define the most suitable selection criteria regarding maternal breeding values for early growth traits from the

results of the above-mentioned analyses

• Implement selection based on these criteria in the Grootfontein Dohne Merino stud

• Monitor genetic progress of the flock in growth, fleece traits and reproductive performance.

BACKGROUND

The data collected on the Grootfontein Dohne Merino stud to date will be used to determine the most efficient way of

including maternal breeding values for early growth traits in the selection program for this stud. Direct and maternal

genetic correlations among body weights at various ages and reproduction will be estimated. The selection strategy

will then be evaluated at the hand of direct and genetic trends in body weight, direct trends in reproduction, as well as

trends in fleece traits. This stud and the data recorded on the animals also form an integral part of the GADI-Biobank

since 2009. Phenotypes and genotypes recorded will be used for future genome-wide association studies and estimation

of genomic estimated breeding values.

Currently, the stud also forms part of the following research projects:

• AP1/19: Evaluation of maternal breeding values for early body weights as selection criteria in Dohne Merino

sheep

• AP1/17/1: Quantification of the genetic relationship between reproduction and body weight in different sheep

flocks

• AP1/17/2: Genome-wide association study to identify possible genetic markers (SNPs) associated with

reproduction and body weight in different sheep flocks

• AP2/21: Genome-wide association study to identify genetic markers associated with resistance to Haemonchus

contortus in sheep

• AP2/22: Measurement of morphometric traits and assessment of subjective traits determining body conformation

at various ages in Dohne Merino sheep

• AP10/3/6: Maintenance of a biological bank for Dohne Merino sheep in South Africa.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Grootfontein Dohne Merino stud (GDM) consists of 406 ewes. During March 2019 these ewes were mated to 12

rams from the stud and a ram from the Wauldby Dohne Merino stud. The rams were selected according to the selection

objectives of the project. The Wauldby ram was selected on its estimated breeding value for worm resistance and will

create a genetic linkage between these two studs.

The ewes were managed as one flock on the veld. Individual mating was practiced with a ram being mated to

approximately 31 ewes in small paddocks. The ewes were kept in individual pens during lambing for a ten-day period

and then kept for a maximum of two weeks in the kraals in Blikkiesdorp.

The PROC GLM procedure of SAS (2017) was used for statistical analysis. The fixed effects included in the analysis

of the production traits of the 2018-born lambs were sex, rearing status, age of the dam and age of the animal as a

covariable. In the analysis of the birth coat score and birth weight of the 2019 progeny, the age of the dam, rearing

status and sex were included as fixed effects, while age of the progeny was also included as a covariable for the

analysis of body weight at 42 days of age, weaning weight and 6-month body weight. Age of the ewe was included in

the model as a fixed effect for total weight of lamb weaned, the wool characteristics and body weight for the adult

ewes.

7

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

2018-Born progeny

The body weights and testis size recorded for the 2018 progeny are summarised in Table 1. The wool production data

at the age of 13 months are summarised in Table 2 and the subjectively assessed wool and conformation traits are

summarised in Table 3. The low clean yield of the rams (Table 2) compared to the ewes can most probably be ascribed

to the poor veld conditions during 2019. The ram lambs were kept in camps with a much poorer veld condition and a

higher dust content, especially around the feeding troughs.

Table 1. Birth coat score, body weights and testis measurements (± s.e.) of the lambs born in 2018

Trait Ram lambs Ewe Lambs

Birth coat score 1.0 ± 0.1 1.0 ± 0.1

Birth weight (kg) 5.4 ± 0.1 5.1 ± 0.1

42-day body weight (kg) 19.1 ± 0.2 18.3 ± 0.2

100-day weaning weight (kg) 28.7 ± 0.6 27.3 ± 0.6

6-month body weight (kg) 43.0 ± 0.8 37.2 ± 0.8



Testis circumference (cm) 31.9 ± 1.8

Testis length (cm) 16.5 ± 1.1

Table 2. Wool production data (± s.e.) of the 2018-born lambs at selection age (13 months)


Greasy wool (kg) 5.9 ± 0.1 3.2 ± 0.1

Clean wool (kg) 3.2 ± 0.1 2.4 ± 0.1

Clean yield (%) 54.7 ± 1.0 74.1 ± 1.0

Staple length (mm) 102.1 ± 1.8 91.8 ± 1.7

Fibre diameter (µm) 17.7 ± 0.2 17.1 ± 0.2

Crimps / 25 mm 12.4 ± 0.3 13.3 ± 0.3

Duerden 86.9 ± 1.3 86.2 ± 1.3

Standard deviation of fibre diameter (µm) 3.1 ± 0.1 3.2 ± 0.1

Coefficient of variation of fibre diameter (%) 17.4 ± 0.4 18.6 ± 0.3

Comfort factor (%) 99.7 ± 0.0 99.7 ± 0.0

Staple strength (N/Ktex) 42.8 ± 1.5 46.7 ± 1.5

Table 3. Subjectively assessed wool and conformation data (± s.e.) of the 2018-born lambs at 13 months of age


Wool quality 28.8 ± 0.7 29.3 ± 0.7

Creeping belly 21.6 ± 0.4 22.7 ± 0.4

Colour of the wool 32.2 ± 0.5 33.9 ± 0.5

Pigmentation 21.2 ± 1.3 35.4 ± 1.3

Wool score 5.2 ± 0.2 5.8 ± 0.2

Conformation score 28.7 ± 1.1 28.9 ± 1.1

2019-Born progeny

The reproduction data obtained from the 2019 breeding season are summarised in Table 4 and the body weights

recorded for the 2019 progeny are summarised in Table 5. It is evident from Table 4 that the ewes had a high

reproduction rate despite the very dry and poor veld conditions.

8

Table 4. Reproduction data (± s.e.) of the adult ewe flock in 2019

Trait Ewe flock

Number of ewes mated 406

Conception rate (%) 89.9

Lambing percentage (number of lambs born alive/number of ewes mated) 141.6

Weaning percentage (number of lambs alive at weaning/number of ewes mated) 124.4

Mortality of lambs:

Died between birth and 42 days (%) 8.7

Died between 42 days and weaning (%) 3.5

Died between birth and weaning (%) 12.2

Total weight of lamb weaned per ewe (kg)

Maiden ewes 22.7 ± 2.1

Adult ewes 31.4 ± 0.9

Table 5. Birth coat score and body weights (± s.e.) of the lambs born in 2019


Birth coat score 1.0 ± 0.1 1.0 ± 0.1

Birth weight (kg) 4.8 ± 0.1 4.5 ± 0.1




Production of adult ewes

The production data of the adult ewes are summarised in Table 6.

Table 6. Production data (± s.e.) of the 2019 adult ewe flock

Trait Ewe flock

Body weight at mating (kg) 71.2 ± 1.2

Greasy wool (kg) 4.0 ± 0.3

Clean yield (%) 66.8 ± 1.4

Clean wool (kg) 2.7 ± 0.4

Fibre diameter (µm) 18.2 ± 0.6

Staple length (mm) 86.6 ± 1.2

Standard deviation of fibre diameter (µm) 2.9 ± 0.4

Coefficient of variation of fibre diameter (%) 16.0 ± 0.8

Comfort factor (%) 99.7 ± 0.7

Crimps per 25 mm 12.2 ± 0.5

Duerden 89.3 ± 1.5

Staple strength (N/Ktex) 40.6 ± 1.2

PUBLICATIONS

The following papers have been published to date on research done on this flock:

Herselman, M.J. & Olivier, W.J., 2006. Determining the relationship between staple strength and production and

subjectively assessed wool traits. Proceedings of the 42nd Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science,

Bloemfontein, 3-6 April, 95.

Olivier, W.J., Herselman, M.J. & Van Heerden, M., 2010. Production norms of the Grootfontein Dohne Merino flock.

Grootfontein Agric 10(1), 55-66.

Olivier, W.J., 2016. The effect of culling lambs at weaning on estimated breeding values of performance traits at 15

months of age of a Dohne Merino stud. Grootfontein Agric 16(1), 42-47.

Olivier, W.J., Van Graan, A.C. & Van Heerden, M., 2017. Estimation of genetic parameters for body weight and body

dimension characteristics in a dual purpose sheep flock. Proceedings of the 50th Congress of the South African

Society of Animal Science, Port Elizabeth, 18-21 September.

Olivier, W.J. & Van Heerden, M., 2017. Estimation of genetic parameters for reproduction traits in a dual purpose

sheep flock. Proceedings of the 50th Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science, Port Elizabeth, 18-

21 September.

9

Dlamini, N.M., 2018. A case-control investigation to evaluate resistance to Haemonchus contortus in South African

Dohne Merino sheep. MSc thesis, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.

Dlamini, N.M., Visser, C., Soma, P., Muchadeyi, F.C. & Snyman, M.A., 2018. Genetic diversity and flock clustering

of a South African Dohne Merino flock selected for resistance to Haemonchus contortus. Proceedings of the 11th

World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, Auckland, New Zealand, 12-16 February.

Dlamini, N.M., Visser, C., Snyman, M.A., Soma, P. & Muchadeyi, F.C., 2019. Genomic evaluation of resistance to

Haemonchus contortus in a South African Dohne Merino flock. Small Ruminant Research 175, 117-125.

(https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smallrumres.2019.04.020).

Olivier, W.J., Mashinini, I.D.M. & Van Heerden, M., 2019. Quantification of the relationship among reproduction

traits and body weight measured at various ages in a dual purpose sheep breed. Proceedings of the 51st Congress of

the South African Society of Animal Science, Bloemfontein, 10-12 June.

Olivier, W.J. & Van Heerden, M., 2019. Quantification of the relationship among body weight measured at various

ages in a dual purpose sheep breed. Proceedings of the 51st Congress of the South African Society of Animal

Science, Bloemfontein, 10-12 June.

Snyman, M.A., Dlamini, N.M., Visser, C., Muchadeyi, F.C. & Soma, P., 2019. Genetic variation in resistance to

Haemonchus contortus in the Wauldby and Grootfontein Dohne Merino flocks. Grootfontein Agric 19(1), 20-30.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

The project is running according to the project proposal.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The GADI and Small Stock Research Trust employees are acknowledged for their contribution to this project through

the maintenance of the animals and the collection of the data.

10

Establishment of a reference population for future implementation of genomic breeding

values for the South African Merino sheep breed

M.A. Snyman

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to establish a reference population for the South African Merino sheep breed, which will be

used for the implementation of genomic breeding values in the industry.

The objectives of the project are to:

• Identify suitable research flocks to participate in the reference population for the South African Merino sheep

breed and maintain these flocks

• Establish genetic links between these research flocks and industry flocks

• Identify suitable industry flocks to participate in the reference population for the South African Merino sheep

breed

• Collect blood samples and record required pedigree and phenotypic data from the participating flocks

• Identify high impact sires among other flocks and collect blood samples of these sires

• Genotype animals with the Illumina® Ovine SNP50 BeadChip

• Estimate genomic breeding values for the South African Merino breed

• Evaluate the available Illumina® Ovine SNP50 BeadChip for South African sheep breeds.

BACKGROUND

This project was initiated in 2013 with the main objective to establish a reference population for the Merino sheep

breed, which will ultimately be used for the implementation of genomic breeding values (GEBV) in the industry. This

is a collaborative project between all role players in the sheep industry. Scientists and technicians from GADI,

Elsenburg Directorate of Animal Sciences (EDAS), the University of Stellenbosch, the University of Pretoria and

Studbook SA are directly involved with data collection, capturing, processing and analyses, as well as blood collection

and processing. Due to logistic reasons, the project is divided into two production areas, with GADI and EDAS the

main centres for each area respectively.


Progress in all objectives of the project is satisfactory. Research flocks, as well as industry flocks, form part of the

reference population.

The following Merino research flocks are included in the reference population:

• Cradock fine wool Merino stud (220 ewes)

• Grootfontein Merino stud (220 ewes)

• Elsenburg Merino reproduction lines (240 ewes)

• Tygerhoek Merino clean fleece selection line (40 ewes)

• Tygerhoek Merino fine wool line (200 ewes)

• Langgewens Merino flock (90 ewes).

The following four Merino studs with good links to the industry and complete phenotypic records are also part of the

reference population:

• Mr Eric Naude (Leopardsvlei, Middelburg; 1000 ewes)

• Mr Geoff Kingwill (Grand View, Murraysburg; 450 ewes)

• Mr Dirkie Uys (Komarsekraal, Bredasdorp; 600 ewes)

• Mr Johan Kotze (Korhaansrug, Moorreesburg; 500 ewes).

Blood sample, pedigree and phenotypic data collection

Blood collection during this reporting period could not take place as usual. Firstly, due to two broken freezers, there

was not enough freezer space to do the collections as usual. The freezers were repaired at the end of February 2020,

using surplus funds from other units at GADI. Therefore, blood samples were only collected from the 2019-born

Grootfontein Dohne Merino, Carnarvon Afrino, Carnarvon Namaqua Afrikaner and the La Rochelle Meatmaster lambs

before the COVID-19 outbreak, after which the lockdown prevented any further travelling for blood collections. Blood

samples from the other participating flocks will be collected as soon as possible. The number of Merino and other wool

sheep blood samples stored to date in the GADI-Biobank and EDAS-Biobank are given in Table 1.

All phenotypic data recorded have been entered into the respective databases.

11

Table 1. Number of Merino and other wool sheep blood samples in the GADI-Biobank and EDAS-Biobank

Breed Number of animals

GADI-Biobank

Merino - Cradock 4151

Merino - GADI 2793

Merino - E. Naude 5037

Merino - G. Kingwill 3069

Afrino 3701

Dohne Merino - Dohne ADI 1502

Dohne Merino - GADI 4684

Dohne Merino - Wauldby 1986

Total 26923

EDAS-Biobank

Merino - Tygerhoek 2277

Merino - Elsenburg 1184

Merino and Dohne Merino - Langgewens 783

Dormer - Elsenburg 235

SA Mutton Merino - Elsenburg 111

All breeds - Nortier 641

Population genetics study 876

Merino - D. Uys 1773

Merino - J. Kotze 985

Total 8865

Grand total 35788

Genotypes

Merino samples genotyped to date with the OvineSNP50 chip are summarised in Table 2.

Table 2. Merino samples already genotyped

Flock Number of

animals Year Genotyped at Funded by

Cradock fine wool Merino stud 48 2013 Geneseek Cape Wools

Cradock fine wool Merino stud 5 2016 ARC-BT a ARC

Cradock fine wool Merino stud 80 2018 ARC-BT Cape Wools

Cradock fine wool Merino stud 239 2019 Geneseek WCATb

Grootfontein Merino stud 37 2013 Geneseek Cape Wools

Grootfontein Merino stud 11 2016 ARC-BT ARC

Grootfontein Merino stud 80 2018 ARC-BT Cape Wools

Grootfontein Merino stud 257 2019 Geneseek WCAT

Geoff Kingwill 12 2016 ARC-BT ARC

Geoff Kingwill 6 2016 Geneseek Cape Wools

Geoff Kingwill 127 2019 Geneseek WCAT

Eric Naudé 22 2016 ARC-BT ARC

Eric Naudé 11 2016 Geneseek Cape Wools

Eric Naudé 484 2019 Geneseek WCAT

Elsenburg Hi-Lo Merino flock 91 2011 Geneseek THRIP

Elsenburg Hi-Lo Merino flock 408 2018 Geneseek WCAT

Langgewens Merino flock 24 2018 Geneseek WCAT

Industry sires 25 2016 Geneseek Cape Wools

Total 1967

a ARC-Biotechnology Platform, Onderstepoort b Western Cape Agricultural Trust. Funding for these genotypes was obtained from different funders, including Cape

Wools SA, Red Meat Research and Development SA (RMRD-SA), the Western Cape Agricultural Trust (WCAT), the

National Research Foundation through their Technology and Human Resources for Industry Program (THRIP) and

Research and Technology Fund (RTF) initiatives.

12

Identification of high impact sires

Merino SA has agreed to fund blood sample collection of a further 14 high impact sires in the industry for inclusion in

the reference population. Blood samples of these sires will be collected by officials from either GADI or EDAS,

depending on the locality of the specific sires.

Estimation of genomic breeding values (GEBV)

A PhD project “Development of systems for estimating genomic breeding values in South African wool sheep” is

currently underway. The student, Mr Nelius Nel is studying under Prof Schalk Cloete at the Stellenbosch University

(SU). Available genotyped Merino samples are being used in this study.

Furthermore, during a meeting of the Ovine genomics task team (Representatives from EDAS, GADI, University of

Pretoria, Stellenbosch University, University of the Free State, SA Studbook) on Tuesday 11 February 2020, a decision

was taken to do a preliminary GEBV analysis for the SA Merino breed incorporating the 1900 available genotypes of

the Merino reference population (Table 2 - the different Merino research flocks and the two industry flocks). During

this exercise, various aspects that still need clarification will also be investigated. The available genotypes will be

incorporated into the relationship matrix in a single step approach into the National BLUP evaluation. The phenotypic

data of the two industry studs of Mr Eric Naude and Mr Geoff Kingwill, as well as the Grootfontein and Cradock

Merino studs, are already part of the National BLUP evaluation and will be incorporated in the analysis. The other two

industry stud animals will be genotyped during 2020 and will then be included in the GEBV analysis. The phenotypic

data of the Elsenburg flocks will be incorporated into the national database for future GEBV analysis.

PUBLICATIONS

Another objective of this project was to evaluate if the available Illumina® Ovine SNP50 BeadChip could be used for

South African sheep breeds. Results indicated that the chip would yield accurate results for the Merino and other white

woolled breeds. The following articles were published on these results:

Sandenbergh, L., Cloete, S.W.P., Roodt-Wilding, R., Snyman, M.A. & Bester-van der Merwe, A.E., 2015. Genetic

diversity and population structure of four South African breeds. Proceedings of the Association for the

Advancement of Animal Breeding and Genetics 21, 294-297.

http://www.aaabg.org/aaabghome/proceedings21.php.

Sandenbergh, L., Cloete, S.W.P., Roodt-Wilding, R., Snyman, M.A. & Bester-van der Merwe, A.E., 2016. Evaluation

of the OvineSNP50 chip for use in four South African sheep breeds. South African Journal of Animal Science 46,

89-93.

Sandenbergh, L., Gore, K., Van der Werf, J.H.J., Olivier, J.J. & Cloete, S.W.P., 2016. Use of an Australian reference

population to impute genotypes of South African sheep. Proceedings 49th Congress of the South African Society for

Animal Science. Stellenbosch, 3-6 July.

Other publications

Sandenbergh, L. & Cloete, S., 2017. Genomics: what it means for the future of sheep breeding. Wool Farmer 4(6), 84-

87.

Cloete, S.W.P., Sandenbergh, L., Olivier, J.J., Van der Werf, J.H.J., Snyman, M.A., Scholtz, A.J., Cloete, J.J.E.,

Hoffman, L.C., Van Marle-Köster, E., Visser, C., Van Wyk, J.B. & Dzama, K., 2017. Selection for hard-to-

measure traits in the national sheep flock: recent progress and the way forward. Proceedings of the 50th Congress of

the South African Society of Animal Science, Port Elizabeth, 18-21 September.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

Progress in all objectives of the project is satisfactory.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The following people / institutions are acknowledged for their contribution to this project:

• Technicians at experimental stations for collection of data

• Participating breeders for their inputs

• Cape Wools SA, Red Meat Research and Development SA, Western Cape Agricultural Trust, Agricultural

Research Council, National Research Foundation through THRIP for funding of the project.

13

Genome-wide association study to identify genetic markers associated with resistance to

Haemonchus contortus in sheep

M.A. Snyman

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to identify possible genetic markers associated with resistance to Haemonchus contortus in

South African sheep, which could be incorporated into the selection plan.

This project comprises several phases. The first phase of the project is the data collection and selection phase and is

carried out on a farm in the Stutterheim district, known for its major H. contortus anthelmintic resistance problem,

under high natural internal parasite challenge. The objectives of the first phase are to:

• Annually record faecal egg counts (FEC), Famacha© score (FAM), body condition score (BCS) and body weight

of all September-born lambs every 14 days from weaning in January until the end of June

• Annually select ram and ewe lambs with a high degree of resistance / resilience to H. contortus infestation for use

in a selected line, in which the emphasis will be improved resistance to H. contortus

• Monitor selection progress with regard to resistance / resilience in the selected line

• Ascertain if sheep selected for resistance / resilience on this farm will exhibit similar resistance / resilience on

other farms under similar conditions and also under different climatic and nutritional conditions.

The second phase of the project comprises the protocol development and is carried out simultaneously with the first

phase. The objectives of this phase include:

• Annual data evaluation and analyses to determine the most suitable selection criteria for resistance / resilience

• Estimation of genetic parameters for resistance / resilience to H. contortus in South African sheep

• Calculation of selection indices and estimation of best linear unbiased predictors (BLUP-EBV) for resistance /

resilience

• Develop protocols for selection for resistant sheep to be applied on this and other South African sheep farms after

sufficient data have been collected.

The third phase of the project includes several genomic studies. The objectives of these studies are to:

• Select suitable resistant and susceptible animals for genotyping

• Genotype animals with the Illumina® Ovine SNP50 BeadChip

• Determine genetic variation in the flock

• Estimate population parameters for resistant and susceptible sheep

• Search for genetic markers associated with resistance to H. contortus within the flock through application of a

genome-wide association study

• Design a breeding plan for South African sheep incorporating genetic markers for resistance to H. contortus.

BACKGROUND

The farm Wauldby of Mr Robbie Blaine in the Stutterheim district has a well-documented history of heavy

H. contortus challenge and of H. contortus resistance to all five major anthelmintic groups on the market prior to 2011.

Several anthelmintic resistance trials have been done at Wauldby over the years. The severe anthelmintic resistance

problem on the farm has inadvertently resulted in selection of sheep over many years with a high degree of resistance /

resilience to internal parasites as drenching with anthelmintics has been largely ineffective. At the end of 2011, a

project aimed at selection for resistance to H. contortus was implemented, using the Dohne Merino stud of Mr Robbie

Blaine. The project was initiated by Dr Alan Fisher of the Queenstown Provincial Veterinary Laboratory (PVL). The

history of and recent selection practices followed in the Dohne Merino sheep flock at Wauldby makes it an ideal

resource for research into resistance to H. contortus.


Phase 1: Data recording

Progress of the first phase of the project is satisfactory. A report on the results of the 2018-born lambs was sent to Mr

Robbie Blaine at the end of August 2019, for the purpose of selecting ewes and rams for the selected line. Data

collection of the 2019-born lambs continued from January 2020 onwards. This year, faecal egg counts (FEC) and BCS

were done in January, March and May, according to the developed protocols. Famacha© score (FAM) was still done

weekly. Body weight was recorded every month. As both Dr Alan Fisher and Dr Werner Wentzel are not affiliated

with the Queenstown PVL anymore, FEC were done at the Middelburg PVL. Dr Fisher, however, still assists with the

project.

14

Phase 2: Genetic parameters and protocol development

Data collected on the 2011- to 2016-born lambs have been analysed and the results published. A protocol for selection

for resistance has also been developed and published. See publications.

Evaluation of Wauldby sires selected for resistance / resilience on other farms

During the 2019 breeding season, one of the sires that has already been used in the Wauldby flock during 2018

(B16292), was obtained from Wauldby and used in the Grootfontein Dohne Merino stud to ascertain if sheep selected

for resistance / resilience on Wauldby will exhibit similar resistance / resilience on other farms under different climatic

and nutritional conditions. The breeding values for faecal egg count (EBV-FEC) were estimated for the Grootfontein

lambs born from 2014 until 2019. The Wauldby ram had the second best EBV-FEC of all sires used, which implies

that selection for resistance / resilience on Wauldby will be exhibited on other farms under different climatic and

nutritional conditions.

Sire B16292 was used again in the Grootfontein flock during the 2020 breeding season, while another farmer near

Thomas River, between Cathcart and Stutterheim, used sire B17144 during the 2020 mating season in his flock.

B17144 was already used during the 2019 and 2020 breeding seasons in the Wauldby flock.

Phase 3: Genomic study

The MSc study “A case-control investigation to evaluate resistance to Haemonchus contortus in South African Dohne

Merino sheep” was completed at the beginning of 2018 and the results published during 2018 and 2019.

Currently a more comprehensive genome-wide association study (GWAS) to search for genetic markers associated

with resistance to H. contortus is underway. Blood samples of 223 animals from the Wauldby flock (selected within

sire lines on the basis of EBV-FEC) and 66 animals from the Grootfontein Dohne Merino flock (selected within year

on high and low FEC) were genotyped with the Illumina® Ovine SNP50 BeadChip at the ARC Biotechnology

Platform. These genotypes, together with those previously genotyped for the MSc study, are used in the current GWAS

study.

Several significant SNPs associated with FEC, FAM and BCS were identified from the GWAS analyses. Many of

these SNPs have genes associated with them. Currently, the identified genes are further investigated as to their gene

ontology, function and any evidence from literature as to their involvement in parasite resistance.

PUBLICATIONS

The following have been published since the commencement of the project:

Fischer, A. & Snyman, M.A., 2014. Seleksie vir weerstand teen haarwurm in skape: Is dit prakties? Veeplaas. February

2014, 4, 80-83.

Fischer, A. & Snyman, M.A., 2014. Is dit prakties uitvoerbaar om te selekteer vir weerstand teen haarwurm in skape

onder Suid-Afrikaanse toestande? Dohne Merino Journal. December 2014, 25-37.

Fischer, A., Snyman, M.A. & Blaine, R., 2015. Practical breeding for resistance and resilience to Haemonchus

contortus in sheep. Vet News. July 2016, 5-7.

Botha, T., 2016. Wauldby se superskape troef haarwurm ál beter. Landbouweekblad.

14 October 2016, 68-71.

Burgess, M., 2016. Wauldby Dohne Merinos: on the veld for 68 years! Farmer’s Weekly.

15 January 2016, 52-55.

Snyman, M.A. & Fisher, A.D., 2017. Protocol for selection for resistance / resilience to Haemonchus contortus under

South African conditions. Proceedings of the 50th Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science, Port

Elizabeth, 18-21 September.

Snyman, M.A. & Fisher, A.D., 2017. Preliminary results of selection for resistance / resilience to Haemonchus

contortus in a South African Dohne Merino sheep flock. Proceedings of the 50th Congress of the South African


Snyman, M.A., Mashinini, I.D. & Fisher, A.D., 2017. Estimation of genetic parameters for resistance to Haemonchus

contortus in a South African Dohne Merino sheep flock. Proceedings of the 50th Congress of the South African


Fischer, A., 2017. Selecting Sheep for Resistance to Haemonchus contortus under summer rainfall South African

conditions – the first five years. Congress of the Rural Veterinary Association of South Africa.



Dlamini, N.M., Visser, C., Soma, P., Muchadeyi, F.C. & Snyman, M.A., 2018. Genetic diversity and flock clustering

of a South African Dohne Merino flock selected for resistance to Haemonchus contortus. Proceedings of the 11th

World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, Auckland, New Zealand, 12-16 February.

Snyman, M.A. & Fisher, A.D., 2018. Progress in selection for resistance to Haemonchus contortus in a South African

Dohne Merino flock. Grootfontein Agric 18(1), 1-19.

15

Snyman, M.A., Olivier, W.J. & Fisher, A.D., 2018. Genetic parameters for traits associated with resistance to

Haemonchus contortus in South African Dohne Merino sheep. Proceedings of the 11th World Congress on Genetics

Applied to Livestock Production, Auckland, New Zealand, 12-16 February, 288.



Snyman, M.A. & Fisher, A.D., 2019. Genetic parameters for traits associated with resistance to Haemonchus contortus

in a South African Dohne Merino sheep flock. Small Ruminant Research 176, 76-88.

Snyman, M.A. & Fisher, A.D., 2019. Genetic parameters for faecal egg count, Famacha© score and body condition

score in a Dohne Merino sheep flock subjected to high levels of Haemonchus contortus. Grootfontein Agric 19(1),

31-45.


Haemonchus contortus in the Wauldby and Grootfontein Dohne Merino flocks. Grootfontein Agric 19(1), 20-30.

Snyman, M.A. & Fisher, A.D., 2019. Protocol for selection for resistance to Haemonchus contortus in South African

Dohne Merino sheep. https://rmrdsaonline.co.za/genetic-markers-for-haemonchus-contortus-in-sheep/

Snyman, M.A. & Fisher, A.D., 2020. Practical breeding for resistance and resilience to Haemonchus contortus in

South African sheep. Grootfontein Agric 20(1), 28-35.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

The project is running according to the project protocol. The developed protocols need to be validated on various farms

before they can be implemented on a wider scale.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS


• Mr Robbie Blaine for all his inputs

• Dr Alan Fisher for all his inputs

• Dr Werner Wentzel for his inputs

• RMRD-SA and ARC for funding of the project.

16

Measurement of morphometric traits and assessment of subjective traits determining body

conformation at various ages in Dohne Merino sheep

M. A. Snyman

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to evaluate different morphometric and subjective traits determining body conformation in

Dohne Merino sheep and to determine any change in these traits with an increase in age of the animal.


• Measure different morphometric traits and assess different subjective traits at various ages in ram lambs of the

Grootfontein Dohne Merino stud

• Define body conformation in terms of the most suitable combination of traits

• Award a subjective conformation score as well as a Dohne Merino Breeders’ Society classification symbol to

each animal

• Estimate the repeatability and heritability of the respective individual and combination of traits

• Estimate repeatability of the subjective conformation scores among and within judges

• Determine phenotypic trends in the conformation traits with age and the subsequent influence on

conformation scores

• Determine which of the traits contribute the most to the subjective conformation scores and to body weight

• Estimate genetic correlations of the morphometric and subjective traits with the economically important

productive traits.

BACKGROUND

Visual appraisal of animals during classing and selection has been done ever since animals have been selected for

improved performance. Apart from the economically important traits such as reproduction, body weight, fleece weight

and the wool quality traits that can be objectively measured, other traits are also considered during selection. In many

instances more emphasis is placed on the latter traits during selection than on the objectively measured traits. Body

conformation, as an indication of carcass conformation, is one of the subjective traits on which a lot of emphasis is

placed during selection. For example, in the South African Merino breed, a subjective wool score and subjective

conformation score are awarded during classing. In the Dohne Merino breed, body conformation also plays an

important role when awarding the classification symbol of an animal. Many animals that actually qualify for an AA

symbol based on their productive performance are not awarded AA symbols based on conformation. This could lead to

animals with superior genetics for the economically important production traits being culled on the basis of

subjectively assessed traits and assessor preference.


Different morphometric body conformation traits (Table 1) were measured and assessed at 4, 8 and 12 months of age

in the 2018-born ram lambs of the Grootfontein Dohne Merino stud. A subjective conformation score was also

awarded to each animal. Body weight and body condition score of the animals were also recorded at each age. At 12

months of age, a classification symbol was also awarded by each judge, while a final classification symbol was

awarded by Judge A at 14 months of age during final classing of the animals.

Table 1. Traits measured and assessed plus the abbreviations for the traits used in the text

Trait Trait abbreviation at 4

months

Trait abbreviation at

8 months


12 months

Wither height (cm) Wheight4 Wheight8 Wheight12

Rump height (cm) Rheight4 Rheight8 Rheight12

Body length (cm) Blen4 Blen8 Blen12

Rump length (cm) Rlen4 Rlen8 Rlen12

Body depth (cm) Bdepth4 Bdepth8 Bdepth12

Front cannon bone length (cm) Cblen4 Cblen8 Cblen12

Shoulder width (cm) Swidth4 Swidth8 Swidth12

Rump width (cm) Rwidth4 Rwidth8 Rwidth12

Hindquarter width (cm) Hwidth4 Hwidth8 Hwidth12

Head length (cm) Headlen4 Headlen8 Headlen12

Heart girth (cm) Hgirth4 Hgirth8 Hgirth12

Abdominal circumference (cm) Abdom4 Abdom8 Abdom12

Body condition score BCS4 BCS8 BCS12

Conformation of the head Head4 Head8 Head12

17

Trait Trait abbreviation at 4

months


8 months


12 months

Pigmentation Pigm4 Pigm8 Pigm12

Hocks Hocks4 Hocks8 Hocks12

Front pasterns Fpast4 Fpast8 Fpast12

Hind pasterns Hpast4 Hpast8 Hpast12

Top line Topl4 Topl8 Topl12

Body conformation - Judge A CS-A4 CS-A8 CS-A12

Body conformation - Judge B CS-B4 CS-B8 CS-B12

Body conformation - Judge C CS-C4 CS-C8 CS-C12

Classification symbol - Judge A SYM-A

Classification symbol - Judge B SYM-B

Classification symbol - Judge C SYM-C

Final classification symbol SYM

Birth weight (kg) BW

42-day weight (kg) W42

100-day weaning weight (kg) WW

4-month weight (kg) W4



RESULTS

Phenotypic correlations estimated among conformation traits recorded at 4, 8 and 12 months of age are presented in

Table 2. The highest correlation was obtained for body weight. Correlations lower than 0.50 were estimated between 4

and 8 months and between 4 and 12 months for body conformation score by two of the judges. Correlations above 0.50

among all three combinations were only obtained for Wheight, Rheight, Blen, Hgirth, Pigm, CS-A and body weight.

Table 2. Correlations between conformation traits recorded at 4, 6 and 12 months of age

Trait Correlation between 4 and

8 months

Correlation between 4 and

12 months

Correlation between 8 and

12 months

Wheight 0.73* 0.61* 0.65*

Rheight 0.73* 0.60* 0.66*

Blen 0.51* 0.56* 0.63*

Rlen 0.34* 0.24* 0.26*

Bdepth 0.56* 0.50* 0.48*

Cblen 0.18* -0.01 0.32*

Swidth 0.33* 0.30* 0.39*

Rwidth 0.12 0.16 0.11

Hwidth 0.38* 0.25* 0.35*

Headlen 0.41* 0.39* 0.44*

Hgirth 0.62* 0.52* 0.64*

Abdom 0.53* 0.45* 0.51*

BCS 0.32* 0.10 0.24*

Head 0.47* 0.23* 0.38*

Pigm 0.66* 0.63* 0.80*

Hocks 0.17* 0.06 0.09

Fpast 0.09 0.03 0.05

Hpast -0.04 -0.09 0.08

Topl 0.19 0.16 0.23

CS-A 0.57* 0.55* 0.59*

CS-B 0.45* 0.48* 0.51*

CS-C 0.50* 0.42* 0.60*

Body weight 0.81* 0.70* 0.90*

* Significant correlation

The results of the forward stepwise regression of conformation traits, some wool traits and body weight recorded at 12

months of age on the final classification symbol are presented in Table 3. Conformation score (CS-A12), Head12 and

18

Wool score explained most of the variance in the final classification symbol, with conformation and wool score

contributing 65% of the variance.

Table 3. Stepwise regression of conformation traits (including conformation score), some wool traits and body weight

recorded at 12 months of age on the final classification symbol

Trait Regression

coefficient Partial R2 Model R2 P value

Intercept 1.81

CS-A12 0.53 ± 0.04 0.4670 0.4670 0.0001

Wool score 0.25 ± 0.02 0.1811 0.6481 0.0001

Head12 0.05 ± 0.01 0.0605 0.7086 0.0001

Hwidth12 -0.07 ± 0.03 0.0211 0.7297 0.0001

Wheight12 -0.06 ± 0.02 0.0119 0.7416 0.0010

Pigm12 -0.01 ± 0.01 0.0087 0.7503 0.0039

Blen12 0.06 ± 0.02 0.0085 0.7588 0.0061

Swidth12 -0.11 ± 0.04 0.0084 0.7672 0.0071

Testis 0.02 ± 0.01 0.0038 0.7710 0.0550

The percentage of rams that were awarded each 12-month and final classification symbol vs the percentage of rams

that qualified for each classification symbol according to their selection index is presented in Table 4. It is evident that

the majority of rams are culled on the basis of subjective assessment.

Table 4. The percentage of rams that were awarded each 12-month and final classification symbol vs the percentage of

rams that qualified for each classification symbol according to their selection index

Symbol Classification symbol according

to the selection index

Classification symbol at 12

months of age Final classification symbol

AA 53.4 16.5 6.8

A 39.8 40.1 28.8

B 6.8 24.0 5.1

C 19.4 59.3

In Figure 1 the body conformation scores awarded by Judge A at 4, 8 and 12 months of age are compared to the

classification symbol awarded to that animal at 12 months of age. The animals that were awarded AA or A symbols

generally got higher body conformation scores from 4 months of age. There was also less variation among the AA and

A animals in the earlier body conformation scores than among the B and C animals.

DISCUSSION

The average conformation scores of Judges A and B were higher at 8 months of age than at 4 months of age, and

remained the same at 12 months of age. The average conformation score of Judge C was also higher at 8 months of age

than at 4 months of age, but the 12-month score was lower and the same as the 4-month score. Phenotypic correlations

between 0.42 and 0.60 were obtained for the body conformation scores of the judges between the different ages.

Medium repeatability estimates between 0.40 and 0.50 for body conformation score were obtained for the three judges

over the study period.

Phenotypic correlations estimated between conformation traits and body weights were significant for most of the

measured morphometric traits and body conformation scores, but not significant for the subjectively evaluated traits.

Positive correlations higher than 0.50 were estimated between body weight and the conformation scores and

classification symbols allocated by the various judges, indicating higher scores allocated to bigger animals.

Phenotypic correlations obtained among the recorded traits at all ages were significant for most of the measured

morphometric traits, body conformation and the classification symbol awarded at 12 months of age, but not significant

for the subjectively evaluated traits Pigm, Hocks, Fpast, Hpast and Topl. Positive correlations higher than 0.50 were

obtained between Hgirth and Abdom and many of the other traits related to skeletal dimensions. The subjective Head

score was also positively related to many of these traits.

19

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Figure 1. Body conformation scores awarded by Judge A at 4, 8 and 12 months of age of the animals awarded the

different classification symbols at 12 months of age

At 8 and 12 months of age, only Blen, Hgirth and Head had positive correlations higher than 0.50 with the body

conformation scores of the judges. Generally, positive correlations above 0.50 were estimated among the conformation

scores and classification symbols allocated by the various judges. The Dohne Merino classification symbol only had a

positive correlation of higher than 0.50 with Blen12 and Head12, and was not correlated to many of the measured

morphometric traits.

Various stepwise regression analyses were done with body weight, body conformation score of each judge at each age,

classification symbol awarded by each judge at 12 months of age and final classification symbol as independent

variables. The results of the stepwise regression analyses indicated that Hgirth and Blen explained the most variance in

body weight at all three ages, while Bdepth8 also explained more than 5% of the variance in body weight at 8 months

of age.

It is evident that there was much variation among the judges in the traits contributing the most to the body

conformation score. At 4 months of age, the only trait of importance common to all three judges was Hgirth4, while at

8 months of age Head8, Swidth8, BCS8 and Blen8 were the common traits explaining variation in 8-month body

conformation scores. At 12 months of age, Head12, Blen12 and Topl12 explained the most variance in body

conformation score of all three judges. It is clear that, except for Head at 8 and 12 months of age, there was no

consistency in the traits that were taken into account when awarding the scores.

There was also variation among judges in the traits contributing to the classification symbol awarded by the judges at

12 months of age. Among the traits taken into account when awarding the symbols, were Head12, Blen12, Hgirth12

and Fpast12.

The results of the stepwise regression of morphometric traits, some wool traits and body weight recorded at 12 months

of age on the final classification symbol indicated that body conformation score (CS-A12), Head12 and Wool score

explained the most variance in the final classification symbol, with body conformation and wool score contributing

65% of the variance. These results indicate that the most emphasis is placed on subjective impressions, as there was

also no consistency in the traits contributing to the body conformation scores.

20

The repeatability within and between judges was also low. Variable scores were awarded by the different judges for

the same animal at the same age. For example, animals that got a 6 score from one judge, might get a score of between

2 and 9 from the other judges. Variable scores were also awarded by the same judge for the same animal at 4 and 8

months of age. For example, animals that got a 6 score at 4 months of age, might get a score of between 3 and 8 at 8

months of age from the same judge. This could be explained by the emphasis placed on different traits at different ages

by the different judges.

Considering the various results, it seems as if the traits receiving the most emphasis are Head, Blen and Hgirth. Blen

and Head were also two of the very few traits of which the means differed among animals that were awarded the

different final classification symbols at 12 months of age. Blen and Hgirth also contributed the most to body weight,

thus indirectly placing much emphasis on body weight. When evaluating the classification symbol as indicated by the

selection index, body weight was the only trait contributing more than 5% to the variance.

Judging from the morphometric and performance data, there is no valid reason why so few animals should be awarded

an “AA” symbol and be eligible for use in a stud. No scope is left for selection on performance data, as the majority of

the rams are culled on the basis of personal preference of the judges.

PUBLICATIONS

None to date.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

Due to the heavy work load of the technician during January 2020, the 2019 lambs were not assessed at 4 months of

age. The 8-month measurements could also not be taken due to the COVID-19 lockdown during May 2020. Therefore,

the project will not be done on the 2019-born lambs and will continue with the 2020-born lambs in January 2021 if

circumstances allowed.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The following people are acknowledged for their contribution to this project:

• The judges for assessment of body conformation

• The GADI and Small Stock Research Trust employees for collection of the conformation trait data.

21

Prediction of tail weight from tail measurements in Namaqua Afrikaner sheep

M.A. Snyman

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to predict tail weight from tail measurements in Namaqua Afrikaner sheep at various ages,

and to determine the amount of fat resources mobilised from the tail during lactation by Namaqua Afrikaner ewes.


• Record length and circumference measurements of the tails of Namaqua Afrikaner sheep at various ages at the

Carnarvon Experimental Station

• Weigh tails of the above-mentioned animals after slaughtering

• Compile prediction equations for tail weight from length and circumference measurements

• Record length and circumference measurements of the tails of Namaqua Afrikaner ewes before lambing and

after weaning of their lambs

• Determine the amount of fat resources mobilised from the tail during lactation utilising the above prediction

equations.

BACKGROUND

The Namaqua Afrikaner breed is one of the few indigenous breeds for which some scientific production and

reproduction norms are available. However, little information is known on the relative weight of the fat-tails and the

metabolism of this fat during lactation or under periods of adverse feeding conditions. Information on these aspects

would contribute to the knowledge database for the indigenous breeds. The lactation cycle, especially early lactation, is

the period of highest nutrient requirements in the entire productive cycle of the ewe. As the growth of the lamb during

this period is mainly determined by its milk intake, shortage of good quality feed at this stage for the ewe could impact

negatively on lamb growth rate. The latter in turn will negatively influence profitability from meat production of the

enterprise. If fat-tailed ewes could ”supplement” their energy resources by mobilising the fat resources in their fat-tails,

this negative impact on lamb growth could be reduced.

Since 2013, below average rainfall has been recorded at the Carnarvon Experimental Station. For 2018, 206 mm rain

was recorded. Although this is average for the region, 178 mm of the rain fell from January until May 2018. For the

ensuing period until December 2019, only 72 mm rain was recorded. The lowest rainfall since 2003 was recorded

during 2019 (44 mm), with only 11 mm of rain recorded from May until December 2019. This resulted in very poor

veld conditions which necessitated the commencement of the provision of supplementary feeding to the Namaqua

Afrikaner ewes during lambing in September 2019. The ewes received chocolate maize (300 g/ewe/day) and lucerne

pellets (300 g/ewe/day) from September until the end of December 2019. It was therefore an ideal time to evaluate the

ability of the ewes to mobilise the fat reserves in their fat-tails during lactation.

However, for this to be possible in the live animals, prediction equations need to be compiled first. Due to the dry

conditions, the 2018-born lambs were classed at an earlier age (9 months of age) than usual (14 months of age). These

surplus lambs, as well as all other available older animals, were measured and slaughtered to obtain data for the

compilation of prediction equations of fat-tail weight from tail measurements in the live animal.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Slaughter trial

Surplus 2018-born lambs, as well as all other available older animals, were measured and slaughtered to obtain data for

the compilation of prediction equations of fat-tail weight from tail measurements in the live animal. The following was

recorded on / awarded to all these animals:

• Body weight

• Upper tail circumference (UTC) - measurement taken in cm at the base of the tail.

• Lower tail circumference (LTC) - measurement taken in cm at the lowest part of the tail, just proximal to the

twist.

• Distance in cm between UTC and LTC.

• Tail length entire (TLE) - measurement taken in cm from the base of the tail to the tip of the tail on the middle

inner side of the tail. The entire tail length along the twist is measured.

• Tail length thick (TLT) - measurement taken in cm from the base of the tail to the end of the thick part of the

tail to the point where the twist starts. Measured on the middle inner side of the tail.

• Tail twist: To Left, Straight, To Right

• Extent of twist: Award Tail twist category according to Figure 1.

22

The animals were slaughtered at the local abattoir in Carnarvon, where the weight of the tail (TMAS) was recorded in

grams for each animal.

Category 1

Full corkscrew twist to the left or right

Category 2

Long tail with only an indication of twist to the left of right

Category 3

“Ronderib”-tail. Shorter tail with only the tip curling

around to the left or right. Tail ending well above the

hocks

Category 4

Straight tail having no twist

Figure 1. Description of extent of twist of the tail

For the calculation of the volume of the tail, it was divided into two parts; the cylindrical part and the tip part (cone

shaped). The volume was calculated as follows:

VOL1 (cylindrical part) = πr2h

= π x (radius of UTC)2 x DIST

VOL2 (cone shaped tip part) = πr2h/3

= π x (radius of LTC)2 x ((TLE-TLT)/3)

VOL3 (total tail volume) = VOL1 + VOL2

Least square means for all the tail measurements were obtained by fitting GLM models with fixed effects for sex, age

and tail category (TCAT). Phenotypic correlations among the tail measurements were estimated with PROC CORR of

SAS for all the data. Various regression models predicting tail weight, including the different tail volumes and the

individual tail measurements, were fitted with PROC GLM of SAS.

Lactating ewe trial

This part of the trial was done on the breeding ewe flock. The same tail trait information as for the animals in the

slaughter trial were recorded on / awarded to all ewes before lambing at the end of August 2019 and again after

weaning of the lambs in January 2020. Number of lambs born and weaned, and weight of lamb weaned per ewe were

recorded. Body weight of the ewes was recorded after weaning.

23

RESULTS AND DUSCUSSION

Slaughter trial

Phenotypic correlations among the tail measurements estimated on the entire dataset are given in Table 1. High

correlations were estimated between tail volume and TMAS, and medium to high correlations between TMAS and the

other tail measurements. For these measurements to be used as accurate predictors for tail weight, higher correlations

than those estimated in this study would have been preferred.

Table 1. Correlations among tail measurements estimated on the entire dataset (n=103)

Trait VOL1 VOL2 VOL3 UTC LTC DIST TLE TLT

TMAS 0.67* 0.58* 0.69* 0.59* 0.60* 0.48* 0.47* 0.49*

VOL1 - 0.71* 0.99* 0.90* 0.81* 0.69* 0.48* 0.39*

VOL2 - 0.81* 0.55* 0.84* 0.39* 0.72* 0.52*

VOL3 - 0.87* 0.96* 0.66* 0.57* 0.44*

UTC - 0.67* 0.47* 0.33* 0.38*

LTC - 0.41* 0.37* 0.47*

DIST - 0.58* 0.24*

TLE - 0.49*

* Significant correlations

Various linear regression models predicting tail weight are summarised in Table 2. The results in Table 2 are in

agreement with the correlations obtained above. The best predictions were obtained for the models including VOL3 or

the individual measurements, but the R2 of these models ranged from 0.46 to 0.48. A higher R2 is preferred to make

more accurate predictions. Unfortunately, the ewes declared surplus after weaning of their lambs in January 2020,

could not be slaughtered due to the COVID-19 lockdown. Some of these ewes lost weight in their tails, which would

have increased the variation in tail weight of the available data set and could probably increase the predictability of the

models.

Table 2. Linear regression models predicting tail weight

Trait Regression coefficient P value trait R2 model

Model (All data) TMAS = VOL1

Intercept 3.7783 0.4521

VOL1 0.0005 0.0001


Intercept 3.9555 0.3327

VOL2 0.0015 0.0001


Intercept 3.7648 0.4718

VOL3 0.0004 0.0001

Model (All data) TMAS = UTC + LTC + DIST

Intercept 2.6807 0.4618

UTC 0.0176 0.0091

LTC 0.0260 0.0017

DIST 0.0290 0.0116

Model (All data) TMAS = UTC + LTC + TLE

Intercept 2.6560 0.4830

UTC 0.0199 0.0019

LTC 0.0233 0.0043

TLE 0.0154 0.0013

Model (All data) TMAS = UTC + LTC + TLT

Intercept 2.8321 0.4704

UTC 0.0205 0.0016

LTC 0.0215 0.0107

TLT 0.0209 0.0048

Lactating ewes

Least square means for the tail measurements of the ewes before and after lactation are presented in Table 3.

Significant differences in tail volume and some measurements were observed before and after lactation in the ewes,

indicating weight loss in the fat-tails. The ewes had an average body weight loss of 4.6 kg between mating and post

weaning.

24

Table 3. Least square means for the tail measurements of the ewes before and after lactation

Trait Before lactation After lactation

UTC (cm) 31.1a ± 0.5 24.5a ± 0.5

LTC (cm) 22.4a ± 0.4 19.7a ± 0.4

DIST (cm) 20.1a ± 0.3 18.4a ± 0.3

TLE (cm) 32.0 ± 0.5 32.7 ± 0.5

TLT (cm) 20.1 ± 0.4 19.5 ± 0.4

VOL1 (cm3) 1597a ± 50 881a ± 50

VOL2 (cm3) 164a ± 9 136a ± 9

VOL3 (cm3) 1761a ± 55 1017a ± 55 a Values with the same superscripts within traits differ significantly (P <0.05)

The effects of number of lambs born and number of lambs weaned on the reduction in tail volume during lactation are

presented in Table 4. Linear regression of total weight of lamb weaned on reduction in tail volume during lactation is

given in Table 5. From Tables 4 and 5 it is evident that the number of lambs born or weaned, or the kilogram of lamb

weaned, did not influence the volume of fat mobilised from the fat-tail during lactation. Supplementation of the ewes

during lactation could have influenced these results.

Table 4. Effects of number of lambs born and number of lambs weaned on the reduction in tail volume during lactation

Trait Reduction in VOL1 Reduction in VOL2 Reduction in VOL3

Number of lambs born

0 -756 ± 139 -26 ± 27 -783 ± 153

1 -657 ± 83 -27 ± 16 -684 ± 91

2 -772 ± 94 -30 ± 18 -803 ± 103

3 -767 ± 575 5 ± 112 -762 ± 629

Number of lambs weaned

0 -724 ± 117 -32 ± 23 -755 ± 127

1 -673 ± 82 -19 ± 16 -692 ± 89

2 -782 ± 104 -39 ± 20 -820 ± 114

Table 5. Linear regression of total weight of lamb weaned (TWW) on reduction in tail volume during lactation

Trait Regression coefficient P value trait R2 model

Model Reduction in VOL1 = TWW

Intercept -728 0.0002

Reduction in VOL1 0.5342 0.8994







PUBLICATIONS

None to date.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

This project is running according to the project protocol. The slaughtering of more animals with varying tail weights

will contribute to variation in the dataset and more accurate prediction equations.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The following people are acknowledged for their contribution to this project:

• Personnel of the Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development at the

Carnarvon Experimental Station for maintenance of the animals and collection of data

• Personnel from GADI for collection of data.

25

Description and comparison of different mating and kidding systems used in the South

African Angora goat industry

J.H. Hoon and A. Baca

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to describe and compare the different Angora mating and kidding systems used in the South

African Angora goat industry.


• Describe the practices related to different mating systems, where these practices will also include labour,

financial, health, management and feeding aspects

• Describe the practices related to different kidding systems, where these practices will also include labour,

financial, health, management, feeding and predator control aspects

• Compare the different practices with regard to labour requirements and cost effectiveness

• Identify advantages and disadvantages of each system

• Identify possible areas that need further research

• Incorporate these descriptions and findings into the Mohair Production modules for the Grootfontein Diploma

course

• Use the results of this investigation to provide sound advice to Angora goat producers across the farming

spectrum.

BACKGROUND

Various mating and kidding systems are followed in the South African Angora goat industry, each with its advantages

and disadvantages. Mating systems vary from flock mating with no pedigree recording to individual sire mating and

artificial insemination (AI). Kidding can take place in the veld, on pastures, in kraals or in individual kidding pens.

Due to predators that are becoming a bigger problem, more and more producers are implementing some version of the

individual pen kidding system. Although many producers make use of an individual pen kidding system, producers still

have many questions about the viability and especially the cost aspects of this system in comparison with the other

systems. In practice, it often happens that many producers may make use of the same basic system, but they follow

different management practices and have different infrastructures available for each system. This project is being done

to describe and compare the different Angora goat mating and kidding systems used in the South African Angora goat

industry. Angora goat producers that apply different mating and kidding systems were identified for participation in

this project. The identification process was done in collaboration with the South African Mohair Growers’ Association.

Six Angora goat producers were identified as participants in 2017 and a further six in 2018. The study is conducted on

the ewe flocks and their progeny of the participating Angora goat producers.


The 12 participants were visited twice, once during the mating season and once during the kidding season. During the

two visits, interviews were conducted with the producers and the Mating systems and Kidding systems questionnaires

were completed. Photos of the veld, animals and infrastructure relating to mating and kidding, were also taken. The 12

participants visited during the 2017 and 2018 mating seasons are given in Table 1.

Table 1. Participating Angora farmers

Participant No Dates visited

Mating Kidding

Mr Hans Greeff (GADI) 1 09 March & 08 May 2017 28 August 2017

Mr Richard Herold (Graaff-Reinet) 2 15 March 2017 29 August 2017

Mr Roelfie van der Merwe (Aberdeen) 3 16 March 2017 21 August 2017

Mr Paul Broeksma (Aberdeen) 4 30 March 2017 06 September 2017

Mr Fransie Fourie (Jansenville) 5 27 April 2017 13 September 2017

Mr Ross Henderson (Steytlerville) 6 04 May 2017 12 September 2017

Mr Jordi van Hasselt (Prins Albert) 7 23 March 2018 21 September 2018

Mr Gary Hobson (Steytlerville) 8 20 April 2018 18 September 2018

Mr Jan Nel (Aberdeen) 9 24 April 2018 19 September 2018

Mr Jan Lategan (Aberdeen) 10 26 April 2018 25 September 2018

Mr Boeta Grobler (Murraysburg) 11 14 May 2018 10 October 2018

Mr Fred Colborne (Willowmore) 12 15 May 2018 18 September 2018

26

DESCRIPTION OF KIDDING SYSTEMS

Mr Hans Greeff, Grootfontein Student Angora Stud, Middelburg, EC

A combination of small camps/kraals and individual pens is used. After shearing (2 to 3 weeks before kidding), the

young ewes and ewes pregnant with twins are kept at a shed with kraals and individual pens on the GADI premises,

while the ewes pregnant with single kids are moved to a camp with a shed in the veld. The single ewes are moved into

the pens in the shed once they have kidded, while the twin ewes kid in the kraals at the shed (30 to 40 ewes per kraal).

Once the twin ewes have kidded, they are moved to individual pens in the kraals and from there to individual pens

inside the shed. The ewes with single kids are kept in the individual pens for 3 to 4 days. The ewes with twins are kept

in the pens for 5 to 6 days and ewes with triplets for 10 to 14 days, after which they are moved back to the kraals in

groups of ~ 20 for approximately 1 week. These groups of ~ 20 ewes with their kids are moved to small veld camps (~

2 ha) for another 3 weeks before they are put into the larger camps.

Mr Richard Herold, Graaff-Reinet

A combination of small camps/kraals and cultivated pastures is used. The ewes are moved from the veld to the small

camps and pastures approximately one week before kidding. The single and twin ewes kid separately in small camps.

The singles ewes and their kids are moved to the pastures after 2 to 3 days, while the twin ewes and their kids stay in

the small camps for 2 weeks before they are moved to the pastures. The average size of the pasture camps is 3 ha. The

single ewes and their kids are moved from the pastures to the veld after 3 to 4 weeks, while the twin ewes remain on

the pastures until weaning.

Mr Roelf van der Merwe, Aberdeen

A combination of small camps/kraals, individual pens and cultivated pastures is used. The stud ewes are kept on

cultivated pastures for the whole year, while the flock ewes are moved from the veld to the small camps and pastures

approximately one week before kidding. The twin ewes kid in small camps and the ewes and their kids are moved into

individual pens in the camps for 2 to 3 days, after which they are moved to the pastures. The average size of the

pasture camps is 1 to 5 ha. The single and twin flock ewes and their kids are kept on the pastures until weaning, while

the stud ewes remain on the pastures.

Mr Paul Broeksma, Aberdeen

A combination of veld, small camps and individual pens is used. The single ewes kid in the veld in groups of ~ 100

animals in camps of ~ 120 ha. The twin ewes are moved into small veld camps after shearing, 3 to 4 weeks before

kidding. Once they have kidded, they are moved to individual pens where they are kept for 5 to 10 days. In the

individual pens, the ewes and their kids are allowed to move out of the individual pens during the day to a larger area.

After this period, the ewes are grouped together again and moved to small veld camps.

Mr Fransie Fourie, Jansenville

A system of small camps in veld, close to the homestead, is used. All the ewes (singles and twins) kid in the veld in

small camps. The pregnant ewes are put into small veld camps (~ 10 ha) 3 to 4 weeks before kidding. Groups of 35 to

50 animals are put into one camp, depending on the size of the camp. The ewes and their kids stay in the small camps

for 3 to 4 weeks after kidding. The smaller groups of animals are then grouped together and moved to larger veld

camps.

Mr Ross Henderson, Steytlerville

A combination of veld, small camps/kraals and individual pens is used. The single ewes kid in the veld in groups of 75

to 80 animals in camps of ~ 100 ha. The twin ewes and young ewes kid in small veld camps (50 x 50 m) in groups of

10 to 15 animals. After kidding, the twin ewes are put into individual pens inside the small camp for 2 to 3 days, while

the young ewes are not put into the individual pens. These small camps have low outside fences, allowing the ewes to

go out to graze during the day while the kids stay behind. The ewes and kids are kept in these small camps for one

week before they are moved back to the larger camps in the veld.

Mr Jordi van Hasselt, Prince Albert

A combination of veld and pastures is used. The single flock ewes kid on the veld in large camps of 500 to 1000 ha.

Once they have kidded, the ewes and their kids are moved to smaller veld camps where they are kept in groups of 30 to

60 ewes, depending on the size of the camps. The stud ewes and twin flock ewes kid on cultivated pastures in camps of

0.5 to 1.0 ha. The ewes are moved to the kidding camps on the pastures about one week before kidding. After kidding,

the single stud ewes are kept in groups of 40 animals, while the twin ewes (flock and stud) are kept in groups of 20

animals. They are kept on the pastures for a period ranging from 1 to 4 weeks after kidding, depending on the pasture

availability and the condition of the veld, after which they are moved to the veld camps.

27

Mr Gary Hobson, Steytlerville

A combination of kraals (where ewes go out during the day and kids stay in the kraal) and individual pens is used. All

the ewes kid in small camps in the veld. Within 6 hours after kidding, the ewes and their kids are moved to the kraals.

Initially five ewes with newborn kids are placed in a kraal and an additional five ewes are added each day. A maximum

of 40 to 50 ewes are kept per kraal. The single ewes stay in the kraals while the young ewes and twin ewes are put into

individual pens for 1 to 2 days. After this period, the young ewes and twin ewes are put back into the kraals. For the

first 3 to 4 days after kidding, the ewes and kids are kept together in the kraal, after which the ewes go out to the veld

during the day while the kids stay behind in the kraals. After ~ 2 weeks after kidding, the kids go out to the veld

together with the ewes. Once the kids are strong enough, the ewes and kids are moved to larger veld camps.

Mr Jan Nel, Aberdeen

A combination of small camps/kraals and individual pens is used. All the ewes kid in veld or pasture camps (2 to 4 ha)

in groups of up to 100 animals. The ewes are put into the camps ~ 1 week before kidding. After kidding, the single

ewes and their kids are moved to other small camps with pastures while the twin ewes and their kids are moved to the

kidding shed with individual pens. The twin ewes are kept in the individual pens for ~ 7 days after which they are

moved out of the shed into a small camp/kraal where they are supplied with the same feed as in the individual pens.

After a few days, the ewes and their kids are moved back to the camps with pastures. The single and twin ewes stay on

the pastures for as long as possible, depending on pasture availability, before they are moved to larger veld camps.

Mr Jan Lategan, Aberdeen

A combination of pastures and individual pens is used. All the ewes kid on cultivated pastures in groups of 300 to 400

animals in camps of 4 to 5 ha. The ewes are put into the camps 1 week before kidding. After kidding the twin ewes and

their kids are moved to individual pens. The twin ewes are kept in the individual pens for 4 to 5 days after which they

are moved to small camps/kraals for 7 to 14 days, where they receive a total mixed ration. The twin ewes and kids are

moved back to the camps with cultivated pastures. All the ewes and their kids stay on the pastures for 6 to 8 weeks

before they are moved to veld camps.

Mr Boeta Grobler, Murraysburg

A combination of veld and pastures is used. The single flock ewes kid in the veld in groups of 50 to 125 animals,

depending on the camp size, in camps ranging from 10 to 50 ha. The ewes are moved to the kidding camps after

shearing, two to four weeks before kidding. The select flock ewes and twin ewes kid on cultivated pastures in camps of

1 to 3 ha. The ewes are moved to the kidding camps two weeks before kidding. The single select flock ewes are kept in

groups of 125 animals while the twin ewes are kept in groups of 50 to 60 animals. The ewes and their kids are kept on

the pastures until 3 to 4 weeks after kidding, depending on pasture availability and the condition of the veld, after

which they are moved to veld camps.

Mr Fred Colborne, Willowmore

A combination of pastures and small camps is used. The ewes kid on cultivated pastures in camps of ~ 7 ha. The single

ewes are kept in groups of 40 to 60 animals while the twin ewes are kept in groups of 10 to 15 animals in smaller

camps. The ewes are moved to the kidding camps two weeks before kidding, just after shearing. The ewes and their

kids are kept on the pastures for 6 to 8 weeks after kidding, depending on pasture availability and the condition of the

veld, after which they are moved to veld camps.

DESCRIPTION OF WEANING SYSTEMS

The management practices during lactation and weaning are summarised in Table 2.

PUBLICATIONS

None to date.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

The Weaning systems questionnaires have been completed in the reporting year and the reproduction data of most of

the participating Angora goat flocks have been obtained. However, information obtained from the questionnaires with

regard to aspects such as health (vaccinations, internal and external parasites), nutrition (supplementary feeding, creep

feeding, flush feeding, lambing pen feeding), management (shearing, culling, predator control), infrastructure, labour,

advantages and disadvantages of the different systems, still need to be processed.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The participating producers are acknowledged for their contribution to the project.

28

Table 2. Management practices followed during lactation and weaning by the 12 participants

P

rod

uce

r

La

cta

tio

n

Cre

ep f

eed

ing

Wea

nin

g

pra

ctic

e

1 Single and twin ewes receive the same

supplementation. Creep feeding to all kids from 4 to 6 weeks of age.

Ewes are taken out and kids stay in the camps that they are

familiar with.

2

Twin ewes receive more supplementary feed and

are kept longer on the planted pastures before they

are moved to the veld.

Creep feeding to all kids from 2 weeks of age. Kids are moved back to the planted pastures, with

supplementary feeding.

3

Single and twin ewes receive feed pellets and

lucerne hay on planted pastures, but the twin ewes

receive larger amounts.

Creep feeding to all kids from 4 weeks before

weaning.


familiar with. A few mature ewes (5-10), normally ewes with

smaller kids, are kept with each kid group.

4

With poor veld conditions, single and twin ewes

receive supplementary feeding, but only twin ewes

receive supplementary feeding with good veld

conditions.

Creep feeding from 2 to 4 weeks of age only for

twin kids and kids of 2-tooth ewes.

Kids are divided into three groups at weaning: twins, singles

and mixed (all the smaller/weaker kids). Three mature, dry ewes

are put with each kid group.

5

Single and twin ewes receive feed pellets in small

lambing camps but the twin ewes receive larger

amounts.

Creep feeding to all kids from 2 to 3 weeks of age. Ewes are taken out and kids stay in the camps that they are

familiar with.

6 Twin ewes receive a feed mixture with higher

bypass protein content than the single ewes.

Creep feeding to twin kids from 3 weeks of age;

single kids only receive creep feeding when veld

conditions are poor.


familiar with. A couple of old/dry ewes are kept with each kid

group.

7

Singles ewes kid on veld while twin ewes kid on

planted pastures. Both groups receive

supplementary feeding; the type and amount will

depend on the grazing conditions.

Creep feeding to all kids from 2 weeks of age.


familiar with. A few mature ewes are kept with each kid group

in the veld camps for ~ 3 weeks.

8

Single and twin ewes receive chocolate maize and

production lick but twin ewes receive larger

amounts.

Creep feeding to all kids from 4 weeks of age. Ewes are taken out and kids stay in the camps that they are

familiar with.

9 Twin ewes receive a feed mixture with higher

bypass protein content than the single ewes. Creep feeding to all kids from 2 months of age.


familiar with.

10 All ewes are kept on planted pastures and do not

receive supplementary feeding during this period. Kids do not receive creep feeding during lactation.

At weaning, kids of one group are swopped with kids from

another group. The ewes are kept for ~ 2 weeks with the kids in

this way.

29

Pro

du

cer

La

cta

tio

n

Cre

ep f

eed

ing

Wea

nin

g

pra

ctic

e

11

Singles ewes kid on veld while twin ewes kid on

planted pastures. Both groups receive

supplementary feeding; the type (chocolate maize

and/or production lick) and amount will depend on

the grazing conditions.

Kids do not receive creep feeding during lactation. At weaning, kids from different ewe groups are grouped

together in larger groups (up to 500) and moved to new camps.

12

On good pastures, only twin ewes receive chocolate

maize while both groups receive feed pellets in

different amounts on poor pastures.

Creep feeding to all kids from 6 weeks of age.


familiar with. A few young goats or old ewes are put with each

kid group.

30

Studies on the detection, control by vaccination and the genetics of Ovine Johne’s Disease

W.J. Olivier

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aims of this project are to evaluate the methods of detecting Ovine Johne’s Disease (OJD) and the effect of

vaccination against OJD on the control of the disease, as well as to quantify the genetics of OJD.


• Determine the level of infection of the animals in the Cradock fine wool Merino stud

• Determine the sensitivity of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) test compared to

histopathological evaluations

• Determine the repeatability of the ELISA test results

• Evaluate the effect of vaccination against OJD on the control of the disease

• Determine the effect of vaccination against OJD on production and reproduction traits

• Estimate the heritability of the incidence of OJD and correlations with production and reproduction traits.

BACKGROUND

Two South African ovine genetic resource flocks are currently diagnosed positive for OJD, namely the Cradock fine

wool Merino stud and the Langgewens crossbreeding Merino-type flock. Blood samples of all ewes in the respective

flocks are already available in the biobanks at Grootfontein and Elsenburg, where it is maintained at minus 80 ˚C.

Blood samples of replacement ewes entering the breeding flock will be obtained annually and included in the

respective biobanks. Complete pedigree and production information is available for all animals. The OJD positive

status of these two flocks has created the opportunity to improve the paucity of information on the detection,

vaccination and genetics of OJD in local sheep flocks through research. This report covers the Cradock fine wool

Merino part of the project.


Since 2017, 50 ram and 50 ewe weaned lambs (from the 2016-born lambs) were inoculated with Gudair® vaccine. The

lambs were divided in Inoculated and Not Inoculated groups on a stratified body weight basis. Weaning weight,

corrected for age and gender, were used to divide the animals.

In 2019, 140 surplus young and culled older animals were slaughtered. The percentage of animals confirmed positive

or negative with histopathology according to age and OJD inoculation status are summarised in Table 1. A total of 43

animals were confirmed positive for OJD with histopathology from the 140 animals that were slaughtered during 2019.

It is evident from Table 1 that 30% of the young animals (born in 2017) and 38% of the adult animals (born before

2017) slaughtered during 2019 were confirmed positive for OJD.

Table 1. Percentage of animals confirmed positive or negative with histopathology according to age and OJD

inoculation status

Status Age (140) OJD Inoculated (46)

Young1 (119) Adult2 (21) Young (45) Adult (1)

OJD Negative 70.59% (84) 61.90% (13) 77.78% (35) 0.00%

OJD Positive 29.41% (35) 38.10% (8) 22.22% (10) 100.00% (1)

Total inoculated 97.83% 1.17% 1 Animals born in 2017; 2 Animals born before 2017

Forty-six of the 140 animals that were slaughtered were inoculated against OJD, of which 98% were young animals.

The low number of adult ewes (born before 2017) is due to the fact that the 2015-born animals were the first group that

was inoculated. The only inoculated adult ewe that was slaughtered tested positive for OJD, while 22% (10) of the

young animals that were inoculated tested positive.

Faecal and tissue samples were also collected during the reporting period on the 140 animals that were culled and

slaughtered. The results of the Ziehl Neelsen Stain smears of the faeces and small intestine and histopathology of the

intestine samples are summarised in Table 2. It is evident from Table 2 that approximately 31% of the animals

slaughtered were confirmed to be positive for OJD with histopathology, while between 26% and 29% of the animals

slaughtered were positive or suspicious for OJD with the other two tests.

31

Table 2. Faecal and intestine Ziehl Neelsen Stain smears and histopathology results of the 140 animals slaughtered

Status Histopathology

(%) Faecal smear (%) Intestine smear (%)

OJD Negative 69.29% (97) 70.83% (102) 73.94% (105)

OJD Suspicious - 18.06% (26) 12.68% (18)

OJD Positive 30.71% (43) 11.11% (16) 13.38% (19)

The results of the faecal and small intestine Ziehl Neelsen Stain smears of the 43 animals confirmed OJD positive with

histopathology are summarised in Table 3. The intestine smears had the highest correlation with the histopathology

results, with 44% of the OJD positive animals having positive or suspicious intestine smears.

Table 3. Faecal and intestine Ziehl Neelsen Stain smears of the 43 histopathology confirmed OJD positive animals


(%) Faecal smear (%)a Intestine smear (%)

OJD Negative - 60.98% (25) 55.81% (24)

OJD Suspicious - 26.83% (11) 13.95% (6)

OJD Positive 100.00% (43) 12.20% (5) 30.23% (13) a Two of the 43 animals had no faecal samples

The results of the faecal and small intestine Ziehl Neelsen Stain smears of the 97 animals confirmed OJD negative with

histopathology are summarised in Table 4. Approximately 24% of OJD negative animals were tested positive with the

faecal smears test, which can be done on the live animal. This is the so-called false positive results from the tests on

live animals, which is a big problem when testing for OJD. Furthermore, the large percentage of OJD confirmed

positive animals that was not detected on live animals (Table 3), suggests that these two tests on live animals are

unreliable.

Table 4. Faecal and intestine Ziehl Neelsen Stain smears of the 97 histopathology confirmed OJD negative animals


(%) Faecal smear (%) Intestine smear (%)

OJD Negative 100.00% (97) 75.79% (72) 82.47% (80)

OJD Suspicious - 12.63% (12) 11.34% (11)

OJD Positive - 11.58% (11) 6.19% (6)

The growth and wool production of the two groups are summarised in Table 5, while the body dimension

measurements are presented in Table 6. It is evident from these two tables that only body weight, body height and front

cannon bone length differed significantly between the two groups.

32

Table 5. Body weights and wool production1 (± s.e.) of the lambs born from 2016 to 2019

Trait Inoculated Not Inoculated

Number of lambs alive at weaning (2016-2019) 307 307

Number of lambs alive at 12-months of age (2016-2018) 190 184

Weaning weight (kg) 27.5 ± 0.1 27.5 ± 0.1




Body weight (kg) 61.2a ± 1.2 59.8a ± 1.2

Greasy wool (kg) 5.3 ± 0.2 5.2 ± 0.2

Clean wool (kg) 3.5 ± 0.1 3.4 ± 0.2

Clean yield (%) 65.4 ± 1.0 65.9± 1.0

Staple length (mm) 85.7 ± 1.2 86.2 ± 1.3


Crimps / 25 mm 13.2 ± 0.4 13.2 ± 0.3

Duerden 83.7 ± 0.9 84.0 ± 0.9

Standard deviation of fibre diameter (µm) 2.5 ± 0.1 2.5 ± 0.1

Coefficient of variation of fibre diameter (%) 14.7 ± 0.3 14.9 ± 0.3

Comfort factor (%) 99.8 ± 0.0 99.8 ± 0.0

Pleat score 6.5 ± 0.3 6.5 ± 0.3

Staple strength (N/Ktex) 43.6 ± 2.2 45.2 ± 2.3 1 Alive at 13-months of age; a Values with the same superscript differed significantly (P <0.05)

Table 6. Body dimension measurements (± s.e.) of the lambs born from 2016 to 2018 (13 months of age)

Trait Inoculated Not inoculated

Body length (cm) 84.7 ± 1.0 84.0 ± 1.0

Body height (cm) 75.8a ± 1.2 74.0a ± 1.2

Front cannon bone length (cm) 15.8a ± 0.2 15.4a ± 0.3

Heart girth (cm) 99.9 ± 1.1 100.7 ± 1.1 a Values with the same superscript differed significantly (P < 0.05)

PUBLICATIONS

None to date.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

The project is running according to the project proposal and all the data were recorded. It is evident from the results

that the indicator tests on live animals are not accurate.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The author extends his gratitude to Cape Wools SA for partial funding of the project and the Department of Rural

Development and Agrarian Reform of the Eastern Cape for assistance with the execution of the project.

33

Establishment of the South African biological reserve for small stock research and

conservation

M.A. Snyman

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of the South African Biological Reserve for Small Stock is to promote the improvement and conservation of

South African sheep and goat breeds.

The objectives of this program are to:

• Maintain resource flocks of various small stock breeds as reference populations and source of phenotypic data

and genetic material in collaboration with provincial departments of agriculture and breeders

• Collect blood samples from animals in the reference flocks, store blood samples, extract and store DNA in

suitable minus 80 °C storage facilities

• Collect embryos, semen and somatic cell tissue samples from endangered breeds and store these in liquid

nitrogen storage facilities

• Develop and maintain a database with all relevant genetic, production and reproduction data

• Provide biological material and data to South African research institutions for the promotion of genomic

research on the improvement of the sheep and goat population of the country

• Conserve and preserve the genetic diversity of South African sheep and goat breeds

• Conserve and preserve the indigenous sheep and goat breeds of South Africa.

BACKGROUND

The South African Biological Reserve for Small Stock (GADI-Biobank) was established at the Grootfontein

Agricultural Development Institute with the aim to promote and facilitate the improvement and conservation of South

African sheep and goat breeds. The layout of this program is summarised in Table 1.

The three projects (AP10/1, AP10/2 and AP10/3) respectively deal with the establishment and maintenance of:

• Live flocks of animals (conservation and research)

• Cryopreservation bank (primarily conservation, secondary research)

• Blood and DNA bank (genomic research).

ACTIVITIES DURING REPORT YEAR

Current projects and sub-projects

AP10/1: Live flocks of animals

This project involves the maintenance of various flocks as resource for the Biobank, as well as for other research work.

Currently there are five sub-projects running under this project, namely for the Angora goats, Namaqua Afrikaner,

Merino, Dohne Merino and Afrino sheep.

AP10/2: Cryopreservation bank

Due to budget constraints, no embryos were cryopreserved during this report year. The total number of frozen embryos

in the bank is 307.

AP10/3: Blood and DNA bank

Various projects for breeds participating in the blood and DNA bank project, namely Afrino, Merino, Dohne Merino,

Namaqua Afrikaner and Meatmaster sheep and Angora goats, are underway.

Policy and ownership of samples

The following documents relating to the operation of the GADI-Biobank are used:

• Policy for GADI-Biobank

• Transfer of Biological Material to GADI-Biobank

• Agreement for the Supply of Resource Material.

34

Table 1. Layout of the program

PROGRAM AP10

Establishment of the South African Biological Reserve for Small Stock research and conservation

PROJECT AP10/1

Establishment and maintenance of

live flocks of sheep and goat breeds

in South Africa

PROJECT AP10/2

Cryopreservation bank for

conservation of biodiversity of sheep

and goat breeds in South Africa

PROJECT AP10/3

Blood and DNA bank for genomic

research in sheep and goat breeds in

South Africa

SUB-PROJECTS SUB-PROJECTS SUB-PROJECTS

AP10/1/1: Establishment and

maintenance of live flocks of the

endangered Namaqua Afrikaner

sheep breed in South Africa

AP10/2/1: Establishment and

maintenance of a cryopreservation

bank for Namaqua Afrikaner sheep

AP10/3/1: Maintenance of a

biological bank for Angora goats in

South Africa

AP10/1/2: Maintenance of live flocks

of Angora goats as reference flocks

for a biological bank for Angora

goats in South Africa (Completed)

AP10/2/1/1: Characterisation and

cryopreservation of semen from the

indigenous Namaqua Afrikaner

sheep breed, in comparison with the

Dorper and Dohne Merino breeds

(Completed)

AP10/3/1/1: Maintenance of a

biological bank for Angora goats in

South Africa: Grootfontein Student

Angora Stud

AP10/1/3: Maintenance of two

Merino flocks as resource flocks for

research and reference flocks for a

biological bank for Merino sheep in

South Africa

AP10/2/1/2: Intensive rearing of

Namaqua Afrikaner lambs from

weaning until breeding age for use in

semen freezing protocol trials


biological bank for Namaqua

Afrikaner sheep in South Africa

AP10/1/4: Maintenance of an Afrino

flock as resource for research and as

reference flock for a biological bank

for Afrino sheep in South Africa


biological bank for Merino sheep in

South Africa

AP10/1/5: Maintenance of an Angora

goat resource flock at Grootfontein

Agricultural Development Institute


biological bank for Afrino sheep in

South Africa

AP10/1/6: Maintenance of a Dohne

Merino flock as resource for research

and as reference flock for a

biological bank for Dohne Merino

sheep in South Africa


biological bank for Dohne Merino



biological bank for Meatmaster


CONCLUDING REMARKS

The program is running according to schedule and project activities will continue as stipulated in the project protocols.

Summary of activities performed during the 2018/2019 reporting year:

• Five sub-projects are underway under the “Maintenance of live flocks”-project. These involve five sheep and

one Angora goat flocks. All phenotypic data recorded have been entered into the database

• To date, 307 Namaqua Afrikaner embryos have been cryopreserved and are being stored in the cryopreservation

bank

• Blood samples from 56 730 Angora goats and sheep have been collected and stored in the blood and DNA bank

• Researchers from six research institutions already made use of samples and data from the blood and DNA bank

for various research projects.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The following people are acknowledged for their contribution to this program:

• Technicians at experimental stations for collection of data

• Participating breeders for their inputs

• Mohair South Africa for partial funding of the Angora goat DNA bank project

• Cape Wools for partial funding of the Merino sheep DNA bank project

• Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform

• Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.

35

Establishment and maintenance of live flocks of the endangered Namaqua Afrikaner sheep

breed in South Africa

M.A. Snyman

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to conserve and preserve the endangered, indigenous Namaqua Afrikaner sheep breed in

South Africa via an in situ conservation program.


• Maintain the Namaqua Afrikaner flocks at the Carnarvon and Karakul Experimental Stations

• Locate current breeders/owners of Namaqua Afrikaner sheep

• Identify private farms for establishment of live flocks of Namaqua Afrikaner sheep

• Maintain these flocks

• Collect pedigree and phenotypic data on animals in the flocks

• Make these resources available for inclusion in the blood, DNA and cryopreservation biobanks.

BACKGROUND

The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development maintains two Namaqua

Afrikaner flocks at two of its experimental stations near the towns of Carnarvon and Upington in the Northern Cape

Province. These flocks are kept for the purpose of the preservation of this genetic pool and the collection of production

and reproduction data on this breed. This report deals with the data collected on the Carnarvon Namaqua Afrikaner

flock.

This project also supplies animals and performance data resources for the following projects:

• AP2/23: Prediction of tail weight from tail measurements in Namaqua Afrikaner sheep at various ages

• AP10/2/1/2: Intensive rearing of Namaqua Afrikaner lambs from weaning until breeding age for use in semen

freezing protocol trials

• AP10/3/2: Maintenance of a biological bank for the endangered Namaqua Afrikaner sheep breed in Southern

Africa.


Rainfall and veld conditions

The long-term average yearly rainfall for the experimental station and the yearly recorded rainfall since 1991 are

displayed in Figure 1. Since 2013, below average rainfall has been recorded. In 2018, 206 mm rain was recorded.

Although this is average for the region, 178 mm of the rain fell from January until May 2018. For the ensuing period

until December 2019, only 72 mm rain was recorded. The lowest rainfall since 2003 was recorded during 2019 (44

mm), with only 11 mm of rain recorded from May until December 2019.

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

19

91

19

93

19

95

19

97

19

99

20

01

20

03

20

05

20

07

20

09

20

11

20

13

20

15

20

17

20

19

Rain

fall

(m

m)

Year

Annual Long term

Figure 1. Long term average yearly rainfall for the experimental station and yearly recorded rainfall since 1991

36

This resulted in very poor veld conditions which necessitated the provision of supplementary feeding to the Afrino

ewes during mating in April 2019 for the first time in 30 years. The Namaqua Afrikaner ewes did not receive any

supplementation during mating. However, supplementation of the Namaqua ewes commenced during lambing in

September 2019. The ewes received chocolate maize (300 g/ewe/day) and lucerne pellets (300 g/ewe/day) from

September until the end of December 2019. Lucerne hay was provided when available and necessary. This

supplementation was given on a per ewe basis and included the lambs which were run with the ewes until weaning in

January 2020. During January, the supplementation was reduced to 150 g/ewe/day of chocolate maize.

Productive performance

The average body weight of the ram and ewe lambs since 1993 are summarised in Table 1. The description of the

morphological traits recorded on the 2007- to 2018-born lambs is presented in Table 2. The morphometric traits

indicated that rams had bigger body dimensions than ewes, as is evident from the higher body length, wither height and

heart girth. Rams also had longer and thicker tails than ewes (P <0.05). In the majority of the animals, the tails twisted

to the left, while more animals had black heads than brown heads. All rams were horned, except one 2011-born and

one 2018-born ram, which were polled. The majority of ewes also had horns (83.2%). The majority of the animals had

no colour on the body, although this could be expected, as it was one of the criteria on which surplus young animals

were culled.

Table 1. Average productive performance (± s.e.) since 1993 of the ram and ewe lambs in the Carnarvon Namaqua

Afrikaner flock

Trait Rams Ewes

Birth weight (kg) 4.40 ± 0.05 4.15 ± 0.05











Table 2. Morphological traits (± s.e.) at 14 months of age of the 2007- to 2018-born Namaqua Afrikaner ewe and ram

lambs in the Carnarvon flock

Trait Rams Ewes

Body length (cm) 74.6a ± 0.4 72.0b ± 0.4

Wither height (cm) 72.2a ± 1.6 69.0b ± 1.6

Heart girth (cm) 100.9a ± 3.0 95.3b ± 3.1

Cannon bone length (cm) 17.7a ± 0.4 17.1b ± 0.4

Tail circumference at base (cm) 47.0a ± 1.4 35.2b ± 1.4

Tail length (cm) 37.3a ± 0.6 36.0b ± 0.6

Testis circumference (cm) 32.3 ± 0.4

Teat length left (mm) 20.1 ± 0.8

Teat length right (mm) 21.0 ± 0.8

Percentage of animals

Tail twist: To Left 63.7 61.7

Tail twist: To Right 33.4 30.2

Tail no twist - straight 2.9 8.1

Colour head: Black 55.9 56.1

Colour head: Brown 40.5 40.4

Colour head: Mixed 3.6 3.5

Colour on body: Yes 23.3 23.0

Colour on body: No 76.7 77.0

Horns 99.8 83.2

Polled 0.2 16.8 a,b Values with different superscripts differ significantly (P <0.05) between sexes

37

The average reproductive performance of the Namaqua Afrikaner ewe flock from 1982 to 2019 is presented in Table 3,

while the reproductive performance of the 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 lambing seasons are summarised in Table 4.

Table 3. Body weight (± s.e.) and reproduction (CV %) of Namaqua Afrikaner ewes since 1982 in the Carnarvon flock

Trait Average

Body weight before mating (kg) 51.0 ± 0.7

Body weight after weaning (kg) 50.7 ± 0.9

Reproduction

Total weight of lamb weaned / year (kg) 33.3 (42.9)

Number of lambs born / year 1.39 (40.3)

Number of lambs weaned / year 1.24 (44.5)

Number of lifetime lambing opportunities 3.07

Total weight of lamb weaned / lifetime (kg) 108.6 (37.7)

Number of lambs born / lifetime 4.44 (35.6)

Number of lambs weaned / lifetime 4.00 (38.7)

Table 4. Reproduction of Namaqua Afrikaner ewes from the 2016 until the 2019 lambing seasons

Trait 2016 2017 2018 2019

Body weight before mating (kg) 59.1 53.8 48.8 50.0

Body weight after weaning (kg) - 49.2 - 45.4

Body weight loss: mating to weaning (kg) - 4.6 - 4.6

Number of ewes mated 105 107 105 105

Ewes lambed / 100 ewes mated 77.0 97.2 92.3 82.9

Ewes aborted / 100 ewes mated 0.9 0.9 0 0.95

Lambs born / 100 ewes lambed 169.8 165.4 175.2 146.0

Lambs born / 100 ewes mated 128.6 160.7 161.9 121.0

Stillborn lambs (%) 2.9 5.8 1.8 2.36

Lamb survival rate (%) 97.0 92.0 94.0 88.6

Lambs weaned / 100 ewes mated 120.0 139.2 149.5 103.8

Total weight of lamb weaned (kg) 29.8 28.6 37.7 20.9

Individual weaning weight of lambs (kg) 25.0 20.6 25.0 20.9

Despite the very dry conditions in 2019 and the fact that the Namaqua Afrikaner ewes only started to receive

supplementation during lambing, they did not lose more weight from mating until after weaning of their lambs than

during the 2017 season. Unfortunately, after-weaning weights were not recorded during 2016 and 2018. Only three of

the ewes did not lamb in 2017 with a resultant conception rate of 97.2%. This high conception rate, together with the

high fecundity, contributed to the high weaning percentage, despite the lower lamb survival rate than in 2016. The

higher fecundity recorded in 2018, compared to 2017, contributed to the higher weaning percentage. The latter, in turn,

contributed to the higher total weight of lamb weaned in 2018. A 10% lower conception rate was recorded in 2019 than

in 2018. This, as well as the lower fecundity and lamb survival rates, could be attributed to the poor veld conditions

due to the low rainfall. The lowest percentage of lambs weaned per ewes mated in many years was recorded during the

2019 lambing season.

2020 Breeding season

Due to the drought and poor veld conditions at the experimental station, it was decided not to mate the Namaqua ewes

during the April 2020 breeding season. This proved to be a blessing in disguise as the country went into lockdown due

to the COVID-19 pandemic on 27 March 2020. A further consequence of the lockdown was that no monthly body

weights of the 2019-born Namaqua lambs could be taken during April and May 2020.

38

ESTABLISHMENT AND IDENTIFICATION OF PRIVATELY OWNED FLOCKS

Three private owners received Namaqua Afrikaner ewes and rams during the reporting period (Table 5).

Table 5. Private owners that obtained Namaqua Afrikaners from Carnarvon Experimental Station during 2019/2020

Owner Farm, District Number of animals received from Carnarvon

Ewes Rams

N.D. Selao Klaarkom, Kuruman 2

J. Claasens Weltevrede, Prince Albert 15 1

B. Steenkamp Klipbanksfontein, Carnarvon 37 19

Total 52 22

PUBLICATIONS

The following have already been published from this project:

Qwabe, S.O., 2011. Genetic and phenotypic characterisation of the South African Namaqua Afrikaner sheep breed.

MSc thesis, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.

Snyman, M.A., Van Marle-Köster, E., Qwabe, S.O. & Visser, C., 2013. Genetic and phenotypic profile of three South

African Namaqua Afrikaner sheep flocks. Grootfontein Agric. 13(1), 5-20.

Qwabe, S.O., Van Marle-Köster, E., Visser, C. & Snyman, M.A., 2013. Case study: Saving the endangered Namaqua

Afrikaner sheep breed through conservation and utilization. FAO special report on Case studies on the

application of biotechnologies for smallholders.

Letsoalo, P.T., Kilian, E., Baca, A., Olivier, H.I.P., Snyman, M.A. & Muchenje, V., 2016. Characterisation and

cryopreservation of semen of the indigenous Namaqua Afrikaner sheep breed. Proceedings of the 49th Congress

of the South African Society of Animal Science, Stellenbosch, 3-6 July.

Letsoalo, P.T., 2017. Characterisation and cryopreservation of semen from the indigenous Namaqua Afrikaner sheep

breed, in comparison with the Dorper and Dohne Merino breeds. MSc thesis, University of Fort Hare, Alice,

South Africa.

Letsoalo, P.T., Snyman, M.A., Baca, A. & Muchenje, V., 2018. Characterisation and cryopreservation of semen from

the indigenous Namaqua Afrikaner sheep breed, in comparison with the Dorper and Dohne Merino breeds.


CONCLUDING REMARKS

The impact of the drought on the project due to the fact that the ewes were not mated during the 2020 breeding season,

can only be evaluated in four or five years’ time.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS


• Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

• Personnel at the Carnarvon Experimental Station for data collection and maintenance of the flock

• Personnel at GADI for data collection

• Participating private owners of Namaqua Afrikaner sheep.

39

Maintenance of two Merino flocks as resource flocks for research and reference flocks for a

biological bank for Merino sheep in South Africa

W.J. Olivier

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to maintain two Merino flocks as resource for research and reference flocks for a biological

bank for Merino sheep in South Africa.


• Maintain the current Merino flocks at GADI and Cradock Experimental Station

• Collect production and reproduction data on all animals in the participating flocks

• Store blood samples and extracted DNA samples of all animals

• Create and maintain a database with all relevant genetic, production and reproduction data

• Make these resources available for qualifying researchers in South Africa for genomic and other research

studies or projects

• Make animals available for student and farmer training.

BACKGROUND

Two Merino flocks are part of the research program of GADI. The Cradock fine wool Merino stud (CMS) is kept

under intensive conditions on irrigated pastures at Cradock Experimental Station, while the Grootfontein Merino stud

(GMS) is kept under extensive conditions on natural pastures at GADI. Both these flocks have been part of long-term

selection experiments since their establishment.

The combined structure and ewe flock size of the two Merino flocks mentioned above make them suitable as a

reference population for a biological bank. Furthermore, the genetic links between these two flocks are very strong and

make it suitable for the investigation of genotype or sire by environmental interactions. The data sets collected on these

research flocks are of the most comprehensive data sets on productive and reproductive traits of Merino sheep

available worldwide. Numerous scientific articles, employing the latest technology at the time, have been published on

data collected on these flocks. It is therefore imperative that this genetic material should be maintained as resource for

future research in quantitative genetics, genetic diversity studies and genomic studies in Merino sheep. It could

furthermore play an important role in the conservation of biodiversity in the South African small stock industry.

This flock is currently also part of the following research projects:


flocks



• AP1/17/4: Identification of genomic regions associated with body weight and reproduction in two South


• AP2/20: Establishment of a reference population for future implementation of genomic breeding values for

the South African Merino sheep breed

• AP10/3/3: Maintenance of a biological bank for Merino sheep in South Africa.


The birth coat score, birth weight, 42-day weight, weaning weight and 6-month body weight of the 2019 lambs born in

the respective flocks are presented in Table 1. Due to the COVID-19 lockdown the 6-month body weight of the GMS

lambs was not recorded.

Table 1. Birth coat score and body weights (± s.e.) of the 2019 progeny

Trait Cradock Grootfontein

Ram lambs Ewe lambs Ram lambs Ewe lambs

Birth coat score 1.1 ± 0.1 1.2 ± 0.1 2.3 ± 0.1 2.3 ± 0.1

Birth weight (kg) 4.6 ± 0.5 4.9 ± 0.5 3.9 ± 0.1 3.9 ± 0.1

42-day weight (kg) 12.6 ± 0.4 12.1 ± 0.4 18.1 ± 0.9 17.5 ± 0.9

Weaning weight (kg) 23.8 ± 1.2 22.6 ± 1.2 30.0 ± 1.7 28.1 ± 1.6

6-month weight (kg) 32.4 ± 1.7 30.7 ± 1.7 - -

40

The 12-month and 16-month body weights of the lambs born during September (GMS) and October (CMS) 2018 are

presented in Table 2. The 12-month body weight was corrected for age, while the 16-month body weight used was the

corrected weight as received from the Small Stock Improvement Scheme. The fixed effects included in the final

models were sex, rearing status and age of the dam in years.

Table 2. The body weights (± s.e.) of the 2018-born progeny


Ram lambs



Ewe lambs



The wool production data at the age of 13 months of the 2018-born ram and ewe progeny are summarised in Table 3

and the subjectively assessed wool and conformation traits and the body dimension measurements are summarised in

Tables 4 and 5 respectively.

Table 3. Wool production data (± s.e.) of the 2018-born ram and ewe progeny at selection age


Rams Ewes Rams Ewes

12-month fibre diameter (μm) 16.4 ± 0.2 16.7 ± 0.2 14.9 ± 0.2 16.2 ± 0.2

16-month fibre diameter (μm) 16.9 ± 0.3 17.7 ± 0.3 15.3 ± 0.2 16.8 ± 0.2

Greasy fleece weight (kg) 5.9 ± 0.3 5.5 ± 0.3 4.2 ± 0.2 4.3 ± 0.2

Clean fleece weight (kg) 3.6 ± 0.2 3.5 ± 0.2 2.6 ± 0.1 2.8 ± 0.1

Clean yield (%) 60.7 ± 1.4 63.4 ± 1.4 62.7 ± 1.5 65.5 ± 1.6

Staple length (mm) 80.7 ± 2.4 87.3 ± 2.5 97.2 ± 2.6 106.1 ± 2.8

Pleat score (n) 6.5 ± 0.2 6.4 ± 0.2 6.3 ± 0.2 6.5 ± 0.2

Number of crimps per 25 mm 13.5 ± 0.6 13.7 ± 0.6 11.9 ± 0.4 12.9 ± 0.4

Duerden 86.1 ± 1.9 90.6 ± 2.0 74.2 ± 1.4 83.5 ± 1.5

Coefficient of variation (%) 14.9 ± 0.5 13.7 ± 0.5 17.1 ± 0.6 15.6 ± 0.6

Comfort factor (%) 99.8 ± 0.0 99.8 ± 0.0 99.9 ± 0.0 99.8 ± 0.0

Staple strength (N/Ktex) 39.6 ± 2.4 56.2 ± 2.4 46.6 ± 2.6 51.8 ± 2.6

Table 4. The subjective wool and conformation traits (± s.e.) of the 2018-born ram and ewe progeny at selection age


Rams Ewes Rams Ewes

Wool quality 20.0 ± 2.2 23.2 ± 2.2 33.5 ± 1.0 34.1 ± 1.1

Variation over the fleece 21.1 ± 2.1 25.0 ± 2.2 33.7 ± 1.1 34.7 ± 1.1

Wool yolk 18.3 ± 1.5 19.2 ± 1.6 24.4 ± 0.7 24.8 ± 0.8

Staple formation 19.7 ± 2.0 21.9 ± 2.0 19.6 ± 1.3 20.4 ± 1.4

Bellies and points 22.5 ± 3.2 21.2 ± 3.2 26.0 ± 1.0 26.4 ± 1.1

Wool colour 26.4 ± 2.0 32.0 ± 2.1 29.6 ± 1.7 29.5 ± 1.8

Conformation of the head 24.6 ± 2.8 25.1 ± 2.8 32.0 ± 0.9 32.5 ± 1.0

Colour 27.6 ± 2.4 28.7 ± 2.4 23.8 ± 1.3 26.7 ± 1.3

Pasterns 33.6 ± 1.5 36.7 ± 1.5 30.3 ± 0.9 30.0 ± 0.9

Hocks 23.3 ± 1.5 21.5 ± 1.5 16.5 ± 1.3 20.1 ± 1.3

Front quarters 23.8 ± 1.5 23.6 ± 1.5 17.0 ± 0.9 19.6 ± 0.9

Overall conformation 24.5 ± 1.7 23.9 ± 1.8 16.6 ± 1.5 23.1 ± 1.7

It is evident from Table 4 that the scores for staple formation, hocks, front quarters and overall conformation of GMS were

below average, while for CMS, wool quality, variation over the fleece, staple formation and wool yolk were below average.

41

Table 5. Body dimension measurements (± s.e.) of the 2018-born progeny at selection age


Rams Ewes Rams Ewes

Body length (cm) 87.0 ± 1.2 85.2 ± 1.2 75.3 ± 1.1 74.1 ± 1.2

Body depth (cm) 76.7 ± 1.2 73.8 ± 1.2 72.5 ± 0.8 71.0 ± 0.9

Front cannon bone length (cm) 15.1 ± 0.5 15.3 ± 0.5 15.5 ± 0.5 15.4 ± 0.5

Heart girth (cm) 100.3 ± 1.6 100.1 ± 1.6 83.0 ± 2.3 82.6 ± 2.4

Horn length (cm) 33.5 ± 1.8 16.2 ± 2.0 26.7 ± 1.1 15.8 ± 1.3

Horn base circumference (cm) 22.7 ± 0.1 11.5 ± 0.1 19.8 ± 0.7 11.8 ± 0.7

Length of the left teat (mm) - 22.6 ± 2.1 - 21.5 ± 2.1

Length of the right teat (mm) - 22.6 ± 2.1 - 21.2 ± 2.1

Testis circumference (cm) 36.7 ± 2.0 - 29.5 ± 2.0 -

Testis length (cm) 16.5 ± 1.4 - 15.3 ± 1.3 -

The information of the 2019 breeding season for both studs is summarised in Table 6. The low conception rate of the

Cradock fine wool Merino stud (CMS) could possibly be ascribed to the fact that CMS is infected with Ovine Johne’s

Disease. The poor survival rate in the Grootfontein Merino stud (GMS) is a combined effect of the poor environmental

conditions during 2019, as well as problems with stray dogs that killed 15 lambs.

Table 6. Reproduction data of the 2019 breeding season


Number of ewes mated 209 199

Mating weight of adult ewes (kg) 67.8 ± 0.7 55.9 ± 0.9

Mating weight of young ewes (kg) 58.5 ± 1.6 54.5 ± 0.4

Conception rate (number of ewes that lambed / number of ewes mated) 76.1 94.0

Lambing percentage (number of lambs born / number of ewes mated) 132.1 133.2

Weaning percentage (number of lambs weaned / number of ewes mated) 90.9 83.9

Mortality of lambs:

Died between birth and 42 days (%) 25.7 25.7

Died between 42 days and weaning (%) 5.4 11.3

Died between birth and weaning (%) 31.2 37.0

Total weight of lamb weaned per adult ewe (kg) 17.3 ± 3.3 23.7 ± 1.3

Total weight of lamb weaned per young ewe (kg) 20.8 ± 1.4 17.6 ± 2.8

Due to the COVID-19 lockdown the wool samples from the Cradock Merino stud could not be analysed, while the

Grootfontein Merino stud ewes were not shorn before mating. The Grootfontein ewes will be shorn during mid-

pregnancy.

PUBLICATIONS


Olivier, W.J., 2013. The evaluation of a South African fine wool genetic resource flock. PhD thesis, University of

Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa.

Nemutandani, K.R., Snyman, M.A., Olivier, W.J. & Visser, C., 2014. Genetic analysis of body weight at different ages

in the Grootfontein Merino stud. Proceedings of the 47th Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science,

Pretoria, 6 - 8 July, 91.

Nemutandani, K.R., Snyman, M.A., Olivier, W.J. & Visser, C., 2016. Comparison of breeding values for body weight

in Merino sheep estimated with different statistical procedures. Proceedings of the 49th Congress of the South

African Society of Animal Science, Stellenbosch, 4-7 July, 57.

Nemutandani, K.R., Snyman, M.A., Olivier, W.J. & Visser, C., 2016. (Co)variance components and genetic

parameters estimation using a repeatability model in the Grootfontein Merino stud. Proceedings of the 49th

Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science, Stellenbosch, 4-7 July, 193.

Olivier, W.J. & Snyman, M.A., 2016. Population structure and pedigree analysis of the Grootfontein Dohne Merino

stud. Proceedings of the 49th Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science, Stellenbosch, 4-7 July, 199.

42

Olivier, W.J. & Van Graan, A.C., 2016. Evaluation of birth coat score as a possible early selection indicator for wool

characteristics. Proceedings of the 49th Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science, Stellenbosch, 4-7

July, 43.

Olivier, W.J., 2016. The effect of culling lambs at weaning on estimated breeding values of performance data of a

Merino stud. Proceedings of the 49th Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science, Stellenbosch, 4-7

July, 64.

Nemutandani, K.R., Olivier, W.J., Snyman, M.A. & Visser, C., 2017. Estimation of direct and maternal effects on

body weight in Merino sheep using random regression models. Proceedings of the 50th Congress of the South

African Society of Animal Science, Port Elizabeth, 18 - 21 September.

Nemutandani, K.R., Snyman, M.A., Olivier, W.J. & Visser, C., 2018. Estimation of variance components and

heritabilities for body weight from birth to six years of age in Merino sheep using random regression models.

Proceedings of the 11th World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, Auckland, New Zealand, 11-

16 February.

Nemutandani, K.R., 2018. Genetic analysis of body weight at different ages in the Grootfontein Merino stud.

MScAgric thesis, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.

Nemutandani, K.R., Snyman, M.A., Olivier, W.J. & Visser, C., 2018. Estimation of genetic parameters and

comparison of breeding values for body weight with different models in a South African Merino stud. Small

Ruminant Research 169, 34-41.

Olivier, W.J., 2018. The effect of culling lambs at weaning on estimated breeding values of performance traits at 15

months of age in a Merino stud. Grootfontein Agric 18, 33-39.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

All the production and reproduction data were recorded and stored during the reporting period.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS


• Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform

• Personnel at the Cradock Experimental Station and GADI for data collection and maintenance of the flocks

• Officials from BKB for classing of the animals

• Cape Wools SA for partial funding of the project.

43

Maintenance of an Afrino flock as resource for research and as reference flock for a

biological bank for Afrino sheep in South Africa

M.A. Snyman

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to maintain an Afrino flock as resource for research and a reference flock for a biological

bank for Afrino sheep in South Africa.


• Maintain the current Afrino flock at the Carnarvon Experimental Station

• Evaluate selection criteria to improve reproductive efficiency, mutton and wool production of dual purpose

sheep breeds under extensive grazing conditions

• Collect production and reproduction data on all animals in the flock and create and maintain a database with all

relevant genetic, production and reproduction data for dual purpose sheep in South Africa

• Store blood samples and extracted DNA samples of all animals

• Make these resources available for qualifying researchers in South Africa for genomic and other research

studies or projects

• Provide research animals for other projects.

BACKGROUND

This is a co-operative project between the Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural

Development and Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute. The project is continuing as in the past.

Researchers and technicians from GADI are still responsible for data capturing, linear scoring of subjective traits and

selection of breeding sires and dams. This is done in collaboration with the farm personnel at Carnarvon Experimental

Station, who are responsible for data collection and maintenance of the flock.

This flock is currently also part of the following research projects:


flocks



• AP1/17/4: Identification of genomic regions associated with body weight and reproduction in two South


• AP10/3/4: Maintenance of a biological bank for Afrino sheep in South Africa.


Rainfall and veld conditions

Long term average yearly rainfall recorded for the experimental station and the yearly recorded rainfall since 1991 are

illustrated in Figure 1. Since 2013, below average rainfall has been recorded. In 2018, 206 mm rain was recorded.

Although this is average for the region, 178 mm of the rain fell from January until May 2018. For the ensuing period

until December 2019, only 72 mm rain was recorded. The lowest rainfall since 2003 was recorded during 2019 (44

mm), with only 11 mm of rain recorded from May until December 2019.

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Figure 1. Long term average yearly rainfall for the experimental station and yearly recorded rainfall since 1991

44

This resulted in very poor veld conditions which necessitated the provision of supplementary feeding to the Afrino

ewes during mating in April 2019 for the first time in 30 years. No supplementation was provided during pregnancy,

but supplementation of the Afrino ewes commenced during lambing in September 2019. The ewes received chocolate

maize (350 g/ewe/day) and lucerne pellets (350 g/ewe/day) from September until the end of December 2019. Lucerne

hay was provided when available and necessary. This supplementation was given on a per ewe basis and included the

lambs which were run with the ewes until weaning in January 2020. During January, the supplementation was reduced

to 220 g/ewe/day of chocolate maize.

Production and reproduction

The average productive performance and subjectively assessed traits of the ram and ewe lambs since 1990 are

summarised in Tables 1 and 2 respectively.

Table 1. Average productive performance (± s.e.) since 1990 of ram and ewe lambs in the Carnarvon Afrino flock

Trait Rams Ewes

Birth weight (kg) 4.90 ± 0.01 4.63 ± 0.01












Greasy fleece weight (kg) 3.24 ± 0.05 3.03 ± 0.05

Clean fleece weight (kg) 2.05 ± 0.04 1.98 ± 0.04


Clean yield (%) 61.1 ± 0.6 62.3 ± 0.6

Staple length (mm) 83.2 ± 1.0 86.1 ± 1.0

Number of crimps/25 mm 17.9 ± 1.3 17.2 ± 134

Coefficient of variation (%) 16.6 ± 0.2 16.6 ± 0.2

Standard deviation (µm) 3.15 ± 0.04 3.23 ± 0.04

Comfort factor (%) 99.5 ± 0.1 99.3 ± 0.1

Staple strength (N/Ktex) 35.8 ± 1.3 35.5 ± 1.3

Table 2. Average scores for subjectively assessed wool and conformation traits (± s.e.) at 14 months of age since 1990

of ram and ewe lambs in the Carnarvon Afrino flock

Trait Rams Ewes

Conformation of the head 32.6 ± 1.2 33.0 ± 1.2

Softness of face cover 33.0 ± 0.9 33.4 ± 0.9

Pigmentation 26.1 ± 1.4 27.0 ± 1.4

Front quarters 33.4 ± 0.8 32.7 ± 0.8

Front pasterns 36.1 ± 0.8 36.9 ± 0.8

Hind pasterns 36.5 ± 0.7 37.1 ± 0.7

Hocks 34.8 ± 1.0 34.6 ± 1.0

Top line 34.9 ± 0.7 35.9 ± 0.7

Body length (cm) 78.5 ± 0.6 75.5 ± 0.6

Wither height (cm) 70.2 ± 0.6 67.6 ± 0.6

Heart girth (cm) 103.7 ± 2.5 99.5 ± 2.5

Front cannon bone length (cm) 18.4 ± 0.3 17.6 ± 0.3

Softness of fleece 32.5 ± 1.1 32.0 ± 1.1

Crimp definition 29.8 ± 1.4 30.7 ± 1.4

Uniformity of fleece 35.2 ± 1.0 35.6 ± 1.0

Density of fleece 34.6 ± 0.9 35.2 ± 0.9

Wool colour 32.3 ± 0.8 32.9 ± 0.8

45

Trait Rams Ewes

Creeping belly 33.2 ± 1.7 35.4 ± 1.7

Scrotal circumference (cm) 33.9 ± 0.5

Teat length left (mm) 23.7 ± 0.9

Teat length right (mm) 23.1 ± 0.9

Selection in the flock is aimed at increasing reproductive performance and body weight, maintaining wool weight and

fibre diameter and improving wool quality traits. Genetic trends for body weights, wool traits and reproduction are

summarised in Table 3. It is evident that the selection objectives with regard to reproductive performance, body weight

and most of the wool traits have been achieved.

Table 3. Genetic trends in production and reproduction traits in the Carnarvon Afrino flock since 1990

Trait Genetic trend R2

Birth weight (kg) y = 0.0097x-0.0109 0.8580

Birth weight maternal (kg) y = 0.0021x+0.0183 0.6053

42-day body weight (kg) y = 0.0221x-0.0184 0.8705

42-day body weight maternal (kg) y = 0.0001x+0.1143 0.0003

120-day weaning weight (kg) y = 0.0503x+0.0786 0.9605

120-day weaning weight maternal (kg) y = 0.0181x+0.0430 0.6436

9-month body weight (kg) y = 0.1328x+0.1595 0.9839

16-month body weight (kg) y = 0.3175x-0.0732 0.9832

Clean fleece weight (kg) y = 0.0119x-0.1696 0.7433

Fibre diameter (µm) y = 0.0061x2-0.2151x+0.3623 0.9527

Total weight of lamb weaned (kg) y = 1.5798Ln(x)+6.8348 0.6593

Number of lambs born y = 0.0725Ln(x)+0.3724 0.5417

Number of lambs weaned y = 0.06516Ln(x)+0.2958 0.6038

Productive performance of the ewe flock since 1990 is presented in Table 4, while the reproductive performance of the

2016 to 2019 lambing seasons is summarised in Table 5. The effects of the drought and subsequent poor veld

conditions are evident from the higher loss in body weight of the ewes from mating until after weaning of their lambs

in 2019 than during the 2017 season. Unfortunately, after-weaning weights were not recorded during 2016 and 2018.

The 1.5% lower conception rate and 11.2% lower lamb survival rate recorded in 2017 compared to 2016, contributed

to the 14% lower weaning percentage recorded for the 2017 lambing season. The higher fecundity recorded in 2018,

compared to 2017, contributed to the higher weaning percentage. The latter, as well as the fact that the ewes received

some supplementation during lactation in 2018, contributed to the higher total weight of lamb weaned in 2018. Despite

the drought, the conception percentage in 2019 was higher than in 2018 and in line with the previous years. This could

probably be ascribed to the supplementation received during the 2019 breeding season. The fecundity and weaning

percentage, however, were much lower during 2019. The lowest percentage of lambs weaned per ewes mated in many

years was recorded during the 2019 lambing season.

Table 4. Production (± s.e.) of Afrino ewes since 1990 in the Carnarvon flock

Trait Average

Body weight (kg) 67.6 ± 0.9

Greasy fleece weight (kg) 2.67 ± 0.09

Clean fleece weight (kg) 1.73 ± 0.04

Fibre diameter (µm) 20.6 ± 0.1

Clean yield (%) 64.5 ± 0.6

Staple length (mm) 74.9 ± 1.0

Number of crimps/25 mm 14.0 ± 0.2

Coefficient of variation (%) (since 2000) 17.6 ± 0.2

Standard deviation (µm) (since 2000) 3.39 ± 0.04

Comfort factor (%) (since 2000) 99.3 ± 0.1

Staple strength (N/Ktex) (since 2008) 28.7 ± 0.8

Creeping belly score (since 2004) 30.9 ± 1.2

46

Trait Average

Reproduction

Total weight of lamb weaned / year (kg) 36.59 ± 0.06

Number of lambs born / year 1.34 ± 0.10

Number of lambs weaned / year 1.18 ± 0.05

Number of lambing opportunities 3.32

Total weight of lamb weaned / lifetime (kg) 130.0 ± 2.5

Number of lambs born / lifetime 4.66 ± 0.09

Number of lambs weaned / lifetime 4.18 ± 0.08

Table 5. Reproduction of Afrino ewes from the 2016 until the 2019 lambing seasons

Trait 2016 2017 2018 2019

Body weight before mating (kg) 72.5 71.1 64.8 70.2

Body weight after weaning (kg) - 64.1 - 53.4

Body weight loss mating to weaning (kg) - 7.0 - 16.8

Number of ewes mated 202 203 199 201

Ewes lambed / 100 ewes mated 92.1 90.6 89.4 93.0

Ewes aborted / 100 ewes mated 0.5 0.5 0 0

Lambs born / 100 ewes lambed 147.8 151.1 170.2 140.6

Lambs born / 100 ewes mated 136.1 136.9 152.3 130.8

Stillborn lambs (%) 2.9 3.2 2.97 4.18

Lamb survival rate (%) 97.4 86.2 92.9 80.9

Lambs weaned / 100 ewes mated 128.7 114.3 137.2 101.0

Total weight of lamb weaned (kg) 35.6 32.3 46.7 26.5

Individual weaning weight of lambs (kg) 27.9 28.3 32.9 27.4

PUBLICATIONS


Snyman, M.A. & Olivier, W.J., 2015. An analysis of creeping belly in the Carnarvon Afrino sheep flock. Grootfontein

Agric 15(1), 1-9.

Dzomba, E.F., Snyman, M.A., Chimonyo, M. & Muchadeyi, F.C., 2016. P4055 Assessing the genomic status of South

African mutton, pelt and dual purpose sheep breeds using genome-wide single nucleotide genotypes. Journal of

Animal Science 94(4), 106.

Snyman, M.A., Cloete, S.W.P. & Olivier, W.J., 2016. Genetic parameters for milk production of ewes in four South

African woolled sheep flocks. Proceedings of the 49th Congress of the South African Society of Animal

Science, Stellenbosch, 3-6 July.

Snyman, M.A., Cloete, S.W.P. & Olivier, W.J., 2016. Genetic parameters for milk production of ewes in four South

African woolled sheep flocks under different grazing conditions. Grootfontein Agric 16(1), 1-15.

Snyman, M.A. & Olivier, W.J., 2016. Population structure and pedigree analysis of the Carnarvon Afrino flock.

Proceedings of the 49th Congress of the South African Society of Animal Science, Stellenbosch, 3-6 July.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

The impact of the drought on the project due to the fact that the ewes were not mated during the 2020 breeding season,

as well as the earlier recording of selection age data can only be evaluated in four or five years’ time.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS


• Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

• Personnel at the Carnarvon Experimental Station for data collection and maintenance of the animals

• Personnel at GADI for data collection.

47

Blood and DNA bank for genomic research in sheep and goat breeds in South Africa

M.A. Snyman

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to maintain a blood and DNA bank for small stock breeds (sheep and goats) in South Africa

as resource for genomic research.


• Maintain and expand the existing central storage facility of the blood and DNA bank for South African small

stock breeds at Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (GADI)

• Maintain an operational DNA laboratory for this purpose

• Collect blood samples from all animals in the participating flocks

• Store blood samples of all animals

• Extract and store DNA of sub-samples

• Collect production and reproduction data on all animals in the participating flocks

• Create and maintain a database with all relevant genetic, production and reproduction data

• Make these resources available to qualifying researchers in South Africa for genomic research studies.

BACKGROUND

The blood and DNA bank forms part of the bigger program on the establishment of a South African Biological Reserve

for small stock research and conservation (GADI-Biobank). It serves as a depot for resource material for genomic

research projects. Seven projects for breeds participating in the blood and DNA bank project (Afrino, Merino, Dohne

Merino, Namaqua Afrikaner and Meatmaster sheep and Angora goats) are underway.

The following sheep flocks are part of the DNA and blood bank projects (AP10/3):

• Afrino flock at the Carnarvon Experimental Station (200 ewes)

• Fine wool Merino stud at Cradock Experimental Station (220 ewes)

• Merino stud at Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (220 ewes)

• Namaqua Afrikaner flock at the Carnarvon Experimental Station (110 ewes)

• Namaqua Afrikaner flock at the Karakul Experimental Station (120 ewes)

• Namaqua Afrikaner flock at Welgeluk, Mr Johann van der Merwe, Carnarvon (110 ewes)

• Dohne Merino stud at Dohne Agricultural Development Institute (120 ewes)

• Dohne Merino stud at Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (400 ewes)

• Dohne Merino stud of Mr Robbie Blaine, Wauldby, Stutterheim (320 ewes)

• Meatmaster stud of Mr Clinton Collett, La Rochelle, Venterstad (350 ewes)

• Merino stud of Mr Eric Naudé, Leopardsvlei, Middelburg (1000 ewes)

• Merino stud of Mr Geoff Kingwill, Grand View, Murraysburg (450 ewes).

The following Angora goat flocks are part of the Angora blood and DNA bank project:

• Jansenville fine hair and crossbred flocks - Jansenville Experimental Station, Jansenville (until 2015)

• Cape Angora Top Tier - Boksfontein, Murraysburg (until 2007)

• Studs 116 & 217 - Mr Arthur Short, Wheatlands, Graaff-Reinet (until 2010)

• Studs 142, 154, 215 & 317 - Mr Ray Hobson, Baroe, Steytlerville (until 2015)

• Stud 248 - Mr Deon Barkhuizen, Rooiklip, Uniondale (until 2011)

• Stud 323 - Grootfontein Student Angora Stud, Grootfontein (since 2012)

• Angela project - Vleikuil, Rietbron (until 2017).


Blood sample collection and storage

Blood collection during this reporting period could not take place as usual. Firstly, due to two broken down freezers,

there was not enough freezer space to do the collections as usual. The freezers were repaired at the end of February

2020, using surplus funds from other units at GADI. Therefore, blood samples were only collected from the 2019-born

Grootfontein Dohne Merino, Carnarvon Afrino, Carnarvon Namaqua Afrikaner and the La Rochelle Meatmaster lambs

before the COVID-19 outbreak, after which the lockdown prevented any further travelling for blood collections.

Blood samples were collected into 10 ml EDTA vacutainer blood collection tubes. After collection, the blood samples

were divided into four aliquots of 2 ml blood each into cryo-vials. These samples were frozen at minus 80 °C for future

use. The number of sheep and Angora goats sampled to date is summarised in Tables 1 and 2 respectively. Blood

samples from a total of 56 730 animals have been collected and stored to date.

48

Table 1. Number of blood samples collected to date for Afrino, Merino, Namaqua Afrikaner, Dohne Merino and

Meatmaster sheep

Breed Total

Afrino 3701

Merino - Cradock 4151

Merino - GADI 2793

Merino - E. Naude 5037

Merino - G. Kingwill 3069

Namaqua Afrikaner - Carnarvon 1916

Namaqua Afrikaner - Karakul 545

Namaqua Afrikaner - J. van der Merwe 185

Dohne Merino - Dohne ADI 1502

Dohne Merino - GADI 6484

Dohne Merino - Wauldby 1986

Meatmaster 5093

Total 36462

Table 2. Number of blood samples collected to date for Angora goats

Participant Total

Fine hair 3128

Short 2580

Retief 884

Barkhuizen 2157

Hobson 6846

GSAS 2557

Angela 2116

Total 20268

Production and reproduction data

The following production data were recorded on the participating flocks during the reporting year:

• Full pedigrees

• Body weight of ewes before mating

• Reproduction data of all ewes

• Birth weight of kids/lambs

• Body weight of kids/lambs at weaning and subsequent ages

• Fleece weight and fleece sample of ram and ewe kids at second shearing

• Body weight, fleece weight and fleece sample of young sheep ewes and rams at selection age

• Fleece weight and fleece sample of Angora ewes at the winter shearing

• Fleece weight and fleece sample of sheep ewes at shearing.

Genotypes

Information on samples from the GADI-Biobank and Elsenburg Biobank genotyped to date with the Illumina® Ovine

SNP50 BeadChip are summarised in Table 3.

Table 3. Information on samples from the GADI-Biobank and Elsenburg Biobank genotyped to date

Flock Number of


Merino (n=1967)

Elsenburg Hi-Lo Merino flock 91 2011 Geneseek THRIP

Cradock fine wool Merino stud 48 2013 Geneseek Cape Wools

Grootfontein Merino stud 37 2013 Geneseek Cape Wools



Cradock fine wool Merino stud 5 2016 ARC-BT a ARC

Grootfontein Merino stud 11 2016 ARC-BT ARC

Industry flocks 34 2016 ARC-BT ARC

49

Flock Number of


Elsenburg Hi-Lo Merino flock 408 2018 Geneseek WCAT b

Langgewens Merino flock 24 2018 Geneseek WCAT

Cradock fine wool Merino stud 80 2018 ARC-BT Cape Wools

Grootfontein Merino stud 80 2018 ARC-BT Cape Wools

Cradock fine wool Merino stud 239 2019 Geneseek WCAT

Grootfontein Merino stud 257 2019 Geneseek WCAT

Geoff Kingwill 127 2019 Geneseek WCAT

Eric Naudé 484 2019 Geneseek WCAT

Dohne Merino (n=649)

Industry flocks 39 2015 Geneseek WCAT

Elsenburg 9 2015 Geneseek WCAT

GADI 28 2016 ARC-BT ARC

Dohne ADI 22 2016 ARC-BT ARC

Wauldby Dohne stud 187 2017 ARC-BT ARC

GADI 48 2017 ARC-BT RMRD-SA

Langgewens Dohne Merino flock 25 2018 Geneseek WCAT

Wauldby Dohne stud 223 2019 ARC-BT RMRD-SA

GADI 68 2019 ARC-BT RMRD-SA

SA Mutton Merino (n=75)




Dormer (n=44)

Industry flocks 34 Geneseek WCAT

Elsenburg 10 Geneseek WCAT

Afrino (n=178)

Carnarvon Afrino flock 50 2016 ARC-BT ARC

Carnarvon Afrino flock 128 2018 ARC-BT Cape Wools

Meatmaster (n=89)

Industry flocks 50 2016 ARC-BT ARC


Dorper (n=88)



Industry flocks (White Dorper) 28 2015 Geneseek WCAT

Namaqua Afrikaner (n=53)

Nortier 20 2013 Geneseek WCAT


Damara


Pedi


Black headed Persian


Fat-tailed sheep


Total 3248 a ARC-Biotechnology Platform, Onderstepoort b Western Cape Agricultural Trust. Funding for these genotypes was obtained from different funders, including Cape

Wools SA, Red Meat Research and Development SA (RMRD-SA), the Western Cape Agricultural Trust (WCAT), the

National Research Foundation through their Technology and Human Resources for Industry Program (THRIP) and

Research and Technology Fund (RTF) initiatives.

50

PROJECTS AND PUBLICATIONS

The following scientific papers have already been published from projects utilising resources from the GADI-Biobank.

2007 to 2010

Friedrich, H., 2009. Evaluation of microsatellite markers for parentage verification in South African Angora goats.


Goosen, P., Swart, A.C., Storbeck, K. & Swart, P., 2010. Hypocortisolism in the South African goat: The role of

3βHSD. Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology 315, 182-187.

Pieters, A., 2007. Genetic characterization of commercial goat populations in South Africa. MSc thesis, University of

Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.

Storbeck, K., Swart, A.C., Slabbert, J.T. & Swart, P., 2007. The identification of two CYP17 alleles in the South

African Angora goat. Drug Metabolism Reviews 39, 467-480.

Storbeck, K., Swart, A.C., Snyman, M.A. & Swart, P., 2008. Two CYP17 genes in the South African Angora goat

(Capra hircus). The identification of three genotypes that differ in copy number and steroidogenic output. The

FEBS Journal 275, 3934-3943.

Storbeck, K., Swart, A.C. & Swart, P., 2009. CYP17 causes hypocortisolism in the South African Angora goat.

Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology 300, 121-125.

Visser, C., Crooijmans, R.P.M.A. & Van Marle-Köster, E., 2010. A genetic linkage map for the South African Angora

goat. Small Ruminant Research 93, 171-179.

Visser, C., Snyman, M.A., Van Marle-Köster, E. & Bovenhuis, H., 2009. Genetic parameters for physical and quality

traits of mohair in South African Angora goats. Small Ruminant Research 87, 27-32.

Visser, C. & Van Marle-Köster, E., 2009. Genetic variation of the reference population for quantitative trait loci

research in South African Angora goats. Animal Genetic Resources Information 45, 113-119.

2011 to 2014

Visser, C., 2011. A molecular approach to genetic improvement of South African Angora goats. PhD thesis, University

of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.

Visser, C., Van Marle-Köster, E., Bovenhuis, H. & Crooijmans, R.P.M.A., 2011. QTL for mohair traits in South

African Angora goats. Small Ruminant Research 100(1), 8-14.

Visser, C., Van Marle-Köster, E. & Friedrich, H., 2011. Parentage verification of South African Angora goats, using

microsatellite markers. South African Journal of Animal Science 41(3), 250-255.

Qwabe, O.S., 2011. Genetic and phenotypic characterisation of the South African Namaqua Afrikaner sheep breed.


Snyman, M.A., Van Marle-Köster, E., Qwabe, S.O. & Visser, C., 2013. Genetic and phenotypic profile of three South

African Namaqua Afrikaner sheep flocks. Grootfontein Agric 13(1), 5-20.

Visser, C., Van Marle-Köster, E., Snyman, M.A., Bovenhuis, H. & Crooijmans, R.P.M.A., 2013. Quantitative trait loci

associated with pre-weaning growth in South African Angora goats. Small Ruminant Research 112(1-3), 15-20.

Garritsen, C., 2014. The impact of DNA parentage verification on EBV estimation and sire ranking in South African

Angora goats. MSc thesis, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.

Garritsen, C., Visser, C., Van Marle-Köster, E. & Snyman, M.A., 2014. The impact of DNA parentage verification on

EBV estimation and sire ranking in South African Angora goats. Small Ruminant Research 124, 30-37.

2015

Lashmar, S.F., 2015. SNP variation in SA goat breeds based on the 50k goat bead SNP Chip. MSc thesis, University of

Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.

Lashmar, S.F. & Van Marle-Köster, E., 2015. Validation of the 50k Illumina goat SNP chip in the South African

Angora goat. South African Journal of Animal Science 45(1), 56-59.

Sandenbergh, L., 2015. Identification of SNPs associated with robustness and greater reproductive success in the South

African Merino sheep using SNP chip technology. PhD, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa.

2016

Dzomba, E.F., Snyman, M.A., Chimonyo, M. & Muchadeyi, F.C., 2016. P4055 Assessing the genomic status of South

African mutton, pelt and dual purpose sheep breeds using genome-wide single nucleotide genotypes. Journal of

Animal Science 94(4), 106.

Lashmar, S.F., Visser, C. & Van Marle-Köster, E., 2016. SNP-based genetic diversity of South African commercial

dairy and fiber goat breeds. Small Ruminant Research 136, 65-71.

Sandenbergh, L., Cloete, S.W.P., Roodt-Wilding, R., Snyman, M.A. & Bester-van der Merwe, A.E., 2016. Evaluation

of the OvineSNP50 chip for use in four South African sheep breeds (Short communication). South African

Journal of Animal Science 46(1), 89-93.

Visser, C., Lashmar, S.F., Van Marle-Köster, E., Poli, M.A. & Allain, D., 2016. Genetic Diversity and Population

Structure in South African, French and Argentinian Angora Goats from Genome-Wide SNP Data. PLoS ONE

11(5): e0154353. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0154353.

51

2017

Andrews, M., Visser, C. & Van Marle-Köster, E., 2017. Identification of novel variants for KAP 1.1, KAP 8.1 and

KAP 13.3 in South African goats. Small Ruminant Research 149, 176-180.

Andrews, M., 2017. Molecular characterization and polymorphism of three keratin associated protein genes in South

African Angora goats. MSc thesis, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.

Snyman, M.A., Storbeck, K-H. & Swart, P., 2017. Evaluation of production and reproduction of three South African

Angora goat CYP17 genotypes. South African Journal of Animal Science 47(4), 478-493.

2018



2019




Haemonchus contortus in the Wauldby and Grootfontein Dohne Merino flocks. Grootfontein Agric 19(1), 20-

30.

There are already 13 research projects that obtained blood and DNA samples, as well as the relevant phenotypic data

from the bank that have been completed, while there are currently another eight projects underway (Table 4).

Table 4. Projects using samples and data from the blood and DNA bank

Project title Researcher Affiliation

Completed projects

Genetic characterization of commercial goat

populations in South Africa.

Ms A. Pieters University of Pretoria

MSc-study

Developing a genetic marker for the identification

of more hardy Angora goats

Dr K.-H. Storbeck University of Stellenbosch

PhD-study

A molecular approach to genetic improvement of

South African Angora goats (QTL for fibre traits in

South African Angora goats)

Dr C. Visser University of Pretoria

PhD-study

Application of microsatellite markers for parentage

verification in South African Angora goats

Ms H. Friedrich University of Pretoria

MSc-study

Further investigations into the influence of CYP17-

genotypes on reproduction and hardiness in Angora

goats

Dr K.-H. Storbeck

Dr M.A. Snyman

University of Stellenbosch

GADI

Genetic and phenotypic characterisation of

Namaqua Afrikaner sheep

Ms O.S. Qwabe GADI

University of Pretoria

MSc-study

Increasing genetic progress in South African

Angora goats through improved pedigree integrity

Ms C. Garritsen

Dr M.A. Snyman


GADI

MSc-study

QTL for body weight in South African Angora

goats

Dr C. Visser

Dr M.A. Snyman


GADI

Identification of SNPs associated with robustness

and greater reproductive success in the South

African Merino sheep using SNP chip technology

Dr L. Sandenbergh University of Stellenbosch

PhD-study

Verification of the 50k Illumina Goat SNP chip in

the SA Angora goat population

Mr S.F. Lashmar

Dr C. Visser


MSc-study

Molecular characterization and polymorphism of

three keratin associated protein genes in South

African Angora goats

Ms M. Andrews

Dr C. Visser


MSc-study

Evaluation of production and reproduction of three

Angora goat CYP17 genotypes

Dr M.A. Snyman

Prof P. Swart

GADI


A case-control investigation to evaluate resistance

to Haemonchus contortus in South African Dohne

Merino sheep

Dr M.A. Snyman

Dr C. Visser

Dr F.C. Muchadeyi

Mr N.M. Dlamini

GADI


ARC

MSc-study

52

Project title Researcher Affiliation

Current projects

Fine mapping of Chromosome 24 and Chromosome

25 for QTL associated with fleece traits in Angora

goats

Dr C. Visser University of Pretoria

Sheep comparative genomics Prof E.F. Dzomba

Dr F.C. Muchadeyi

University of KwaZulu-Natal

ARC

Genome-wide search for signatures of selection

associated with reproduction and body weight in

South African Afrino and Merino sheep

Ms S. Süllwald

Dr C. Visser

Dr M.A. Snyman

Dr W.J. Olivier


GADI

MSc-study

Genetic diversity and population structure of

commercial and indigenous SA sheep breeds

Me A. Retief

Dr C. Visser


MSc-study

Development of systems for estimating genomic

breeding values in South African wool sheep

Mr N. Nel

Prof S.W.P. Cloete


Elsenburg Directorate of

Animal Science

PhD-study

Genome-wide search for genetic markers associated

with resistance to Haemonchus contortus in Dohne

Merino sheep

Dr M.A. Snyman

Mr J. Reding

GADI

SA Studbook

Estimation of genomic breeding values for the

South African Merino sheep

Dr R.R. Van der Westhuizen SA Studbook

Analysis of genetic diversity and population

structure of indigenous (fat-tailed) sheep in South

Africa using the OvineSNP50 beadchip

Dr A. Molotsi

Mr I. Malan


MSc-study

SOURCING OF FUNDING

Applications for funding for the continued maintenance and operation of the Grootfontein Biobank were submitted to

the wool and red meat commodity organisations during January 2019. Unfortunately, these organisations are of the

opinion that it is the responsibility of DAFF to fund the maintenance of the GADI-Biobank. Meetings were

subsequently held with scientists from the University of Pretoria and the Directorate Genetic Resources (DAFF) on the

continued operation and conservation of the resources in the GADI-Biobank. A project proposal was submitted to the

Directorate Genetic Resources requesting funding for the isolation and storage of DNA from the blood samples

currently in the GADI-Biobank.

Subsequent to the abovementioned meeting, a meeting was held with the convenor of the Biodiversity Biobanks South

Africa (BBSA) project in August 2019 at the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) in Pretoria.

During this meeting it was decided that the objectives of the GADI-Biobank are basically the same as the core biobank

option of the BBSA, and that the GADI-Biobank will participate as a core biobank in BBSA.

A three-year proposal for the Biodiversity Biobanks SA was submitted to the Department of Science & Innovation

(DSI) during October 2019, which was approved in March 2020. A three-year Business Plan and Budget for the

Biodiversity Biobanks SA for 2020/21 to 2022/23 was drafted. A meeting with all role players was held on 29 April

2020 via Zoom, where this Business Plan and Budget proposal was discussed. This proposal was submitted to DSI for

approval.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

The program is running according to schedule and project activities will continue as stipulated in the project protocols.

To date, blood samples from 56 730 Angora goats and sheep have been collected and stored in the blood and DNA

bank. All phenotypic data recorded have been entered into the database. At the moment, no DNA isolations are being

done, as there are no funding or human resources available. The cataloguing of the blood samples in the freezers is also

not progressing as planned, due to the mentioned lack of human resources. Funding for this project is becoming a

problem, but if the participation of the bank in the BBSA becomes a reality, this may alleviate the problem to some

extent.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

All people and institutions that contributed to the project in one way or another are acknowledged for their inputs.

53

Satansbos monitoring and control

J.C.O. du Toit

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of the Satansbos program is to monitor the distribution and work towards the control of satansbos in South

Africa, with a focus on the eastern Karoo.

The objectives of this program include the following:

• Develop a colony of the biocontrol agent at Grootfontein

• Gather information on the distribution of satansbos, and present this information in an accessible format

• Conduct research into methods for controlling satansbos

• Provide information to interested parties (farmers, public, municipalities, etc.) on the plant and its control

• Collaborate with the “Eradicate Satansbos Action Group” (ESAG).

PROGRAM LAYOUT

The program will incorporate four major facets (Biocontrol, Research, Information, Monitoring), which will be

addressed in individual research projects.

1. Biocontrol. A colony of satansbos beetles will be established at Grootfontein. Once established, this can act as

a source of beetles for interested parties. At Rhodes University there is a beetle producing facility, but drought

in the area has limited production.

2. Research. Research will be conducted at Grootfontein and participating local farms on how the plant is

currently spreading (e.g. in the tributary to the Fish River) and how it can be controlled (e.g. using herbicides).

3. Information. Information on satansbos will be distributed through various media, including Info packs,

articles in newspapers and magazines, and on the GADI website. Informing municipalities of the nature of the

plant and the threat it poses will be a key focus, because many towns have satansbos infestations.

4. Monitoring. The distribution of satansbos will be continuously updated from data collected opportunistically

(e.g. GADI scientists in the field) and actively (e.g. farmer surveys). Spatial information will be made

available to the public and other interested parties.

Grootfontein will collaborate with ESAG, especially in terms of assisting with spatial distribution data, and advice on

herbicide control.


Biocontrol

The biocontrol production centre at Rhodes University has not yet started making beetles available owing to the

ongoing drought in the region. GADI is on the waiting list for beetles when production has resumed.

Research

No new research projects have been initiated.

Monitoring

Satansbos occurs across nearly the entire latitude of the country, and has been found from 20 to 30 degrees east.

Monitoring is ongoing.

Towns where satansbos has been found are:

Aberdeen, Beaufort West, Bela-Bela, Bethulie, Bloemfontein, Burgersdorp, Carnarvon, Colesberg, Cookhouse,

Cradock, De Aar, De Rust, Despatch, Dewetsdorp, Graaff-Reinet, Hanover, Hutchinson, Jacobsdal, Jagersfontein,

Jansenville, Kendrew, Koffiefontein, Kroonstad, Ladismith, Louis Trichardt, Middelburg (Eastern Cape), Molteno,

Murraysburg, Nieu-Bethesda, Noupoort, Pearston, Polokwane, Postmasburg, Pretoria, Prieska, Queenstown,

Reddersburg, Richmond (Northern Cape), Rosmead, Rouxville, Smithfield, Sterkstroom, Steynsburg, Steytlerville,

Tarkastad, Thohoyandou, Tierpoort, Uniondale, Victoria West, Vosburg, Vuwani, Willowmore, Winburg.

54

Towns where satansbos has not been found are:

Alicedale, Aliwal North, Ashton, Barkley West, Barrydale, Bedford, Brandfort, Brandvlei, Britstown,

Buffelsjagsrivier, Calitzdorp, Calvinia, Danielskuil, Dealesville, Fauresmith, Fraserburg, George, Grahamstown,

Griekwastad, Groblershoop, Hankey, Hofmeyr, Hopetown, Humansdorp, Kathu, Kimberley, Kuruman, Laingsburg,

Leeu-Gamka, Loxton, Luckhoff, Marydale, Matjiesfontein, Montagu, Niekerkshoop, Olifantshoek, Oudtshoorn, Parys,

Patensie, Petrusburg, Petrusville, Philipstown, Phillipolis, Prince Albert, Riebeeck East, Ritchie, Sedgefield, Somerset

East, Springfontein, Strydenburg, Suurbraak, Swellendam, Touwsrivier, Trompsburg, Van Der Kloof, Van Wyksdorp,

Wegdraai, Williston.

Final surveys to determine the distribution of satansbos in the Karoo could not be completed owing to the 2020

COVID-19 global pandemic. Attempts to survey these towns will be undertaken, after which results will be published.

PUBLICATIONS

The following have been published since the commencement of the project:

Du Toit, J.C.O., Vorster, H. & Van den Berg, L., 2014. Satansbos (Solanum elaeagnifolium) - the return of the threat in

the Eastern Karoo and Free State. Proceedings of the 2014 Annual Symposium on the Management of Invasive

Alien Plants.

CONCLUDING REMARKS

Satansbos mapping will continue. A biocontrol population will be established when beetles can be sourced.

Unsurveyed towns will be surveyed over the following year.

55

Other Pasture Science projects

2019-2020 Report year

Under normal circumstances, botanical surveys in most of the Pasture Science projects are conducted annually from

the end of March until June. As a result of the national lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic since the end of

March 2020, these botanical surveys for the projects could only be conducted from July 2020 onwards. The results of

these surveys were therefore not available yet at the time of publication of this report.

The projects are, however, continuing and the results will be reported in the next Research Report. The following

projects were involved:

Fixed season grazing of the mountain paddock in the False Upper Karoo

L. van den Berg

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to demonstrate the disadvantages of fixed season grazing on hilly Karoo veld.

The objective of this project is to graze certain paddocks seasonally, year-after-year, to determine the impact on

botanical composition.

PUBLICATIONS

The following have been published from this project during the past ten years:

Van den Berg, L., 2011. Visual landscape changes after 43 years of fixed seasonal grazing in the Eastern Upper Karoo.


Mureva, A. & Ward, D., 2016. Spatial patterns of encroaching shrub species under different grazing regimes in a semi-

arid savanna, eastern Karoo, South Africa. African Journal of Range and Forage Science 33, 77-89.

Determining the cattle and sheep grazing impact in the Eastern Mixed Karoo

T.P. Nengwenani and J.C.O. du Toit

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to determine the influence that cattle and sheep, grazing the veld simultaneously, have on the

optimal but sustainable use of the veld, while the animals still produce at a high level and the vegetation is still

afforded time to regenerate and improve over time.


• Utilise veld with different combinations of sheep and cattle

• Measure the impact on the veld

• Measure the production of the livestock

• Determine the sustainability and profitability of different veld management systems

• Starting 2015, the Boesmanskop trials are used as site for carbon sequestration of rangelands, in collaboration

with EMS-Africa (a follow-on project from ARS-Africa) from Germany.

PUBLICATIONS

The following have been published from this project during the past ten years:

Du Toit, J.C.O., Van den Berg, L. & O’Connor, T.G., 2014. Fire effects on vegetation in a grassy dwarf shrubland at a

site in the eastern Karoo, South Africa. African Journal of Range and Forage Science 32, 13-20.

Du Toit, J.C.O., O’Connor, T.G. & Van den Berg, L., 2015. Photographic evidence of fire-induced shifts from dwarf-

shrub- to grass-dominated vegetation in Nama-Karoo. South African Journal of Botany 101, 148-152.

Du Toit, J.C.O. & Nengwenani, T.P., 2016. Vegetation changes at the Boesmanskop Research Trials, Grootfontein,

2007-2015. Grootfontein Agric 16, 21-32.

Berger, C., Bieri, M., Bradshaw, K., Brümmer, C., Clemen, T., Hickler, T., Kutsch, W.L., Lenfers, U.A., Martens, C.,

Midgley, G.F., Mukwashi, K., Odipo, V., Scheiter, S., Schmullius, C., Baade, J., Du Toit, J.C.O., Scholes, R.J.,

Smit, I.P.J., Stevens, N. & Twine, W., 2019. Linking scales and disciplines: an interdisciplinary cross-scale

approach to supporting climate-relevant ecosystem management. Climatic Change 156, 139-150.

Du Toit, J.C.O., 2019. Drivers of Vegetation Change in the Eastern Karoo. PhD Thesis. University of KwaZulu-Natal,

Durban, South Africa.

56

Long-term grazing trials in the Karoo: Camp 6

J.C.O. du Toit

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The long-term Camp 6 trials are used to demonstrate and quantify vegetation changes over time as influenced by

grazing system and rainfall, and under conditions of steadily increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations.

The objectives of the observations are to:

• Assist in the capturing and archiving of existing hardcopy proposals, data, reports, maps etc. of historical data

from the Camp 6 and other long-term experiments

• Compile a complete list of plant species present in each experiment and prepare herbarium samples to be

included in the Grootfontein Herbarium

• Measure current plant diversity to determine the effect of 60 years’ worth of grazing treatment on composition

and diversity

• Measure the composition, density and diversity of the woody component in the experiments

• Conduct vegetation surveys using historical methods.

PUBLICATIONS

The following were published from this project during the past decade:

Du Toit, J.C.O., 2011. Why does grass ‘rain’ in the eastern Karoo? Farmers’ Weekly, 9 September 2011. pp 28-29.

Du Toit, J.C.O., Van den Berg, L. & O’Connor, T.G., 2015. Fire in the Nama-Karoo - a shift from dwarf-shrubland to

sparse grassland. 50th Annual Congress of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa p. 49. Pietermaritzburg, South

Africa.

Talore, D.G., Tesfamariam, E.H., Hassen, A., Du Toit, J.C.O., Klampp, K. & Soussana, J.F., 2015. Long-term impacts

of season of grazing on soil carbon sequestration and selected soil properties in the arid Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Plant and Soil 397(1/2), 317-329.

Talore, D.G., Tesfamariam, E.H., Hassen, A., Du Toit, J.C.O., Klampp, K. & Soussana, J.F., 2015. Long-term impacts

of grazing intensity on soil carbon sequestration and selected soil properties in the arid Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 96(6), https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.7302.

Forrestel, E.J., Donoghue, M.J., Edwards, E.J., Jetz, W., Du Toit, J.C. & Smith, M.D., 2017. Different clades and traits

yield similar grassland functional responses. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 114(4), 705-710.

Hagan, J.G., Du Toit, J.C.O. & Cramer, M.D., 2017. Long-term livestock grazing increases the recruitment success of

epigeal termites: insights from a >75-year grazing experiment in the Karoo, South Africa. African Journal of Range

and Forage Science 34.

Du Toit, J.C.O., Ramaswiela, T., Pauw, M.J. & O’Connor, T.G., 2018. Interactions of grazing and rainfall on

vegetation at Grootfontein in the eastern Karoo. Proceedings of the 2018 Arid Zone Ecology Forum pp. 9-10.

Robertson, South Africa.

Du Toit, J.C.O. & O’Connor, T.G., 2018. Long-term interactions of grazing and rainfall on vegetation composition at

Grootfontein in the eastern Karoo. 53rd Annual Congress of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa p. 35.

Pretoria, South Africa.

Du Toit, J.C.O., Ramaswiela, T., Pauw, M.J. & O’Connor, T.G., 2018. Interactions of grazing and rainfall on

vegetation at Grootfontein in the eastern Karoo. African Journal of Range & Forage Science 35, 267-276.

Du Toit, J.C.O., 2019. Drivers of Vegetation Change in the Eastern Karoo. PhD Thesis. University of KwaZulu-Natal,

Durban, South Africa.

Du Toit, J.C.O. & O’Connor, T.G., 2019. Influence of season of grazing and rainfall over time on vegetation in the

eastern Karoo, South Africa. Proceedings of the 2019 Arid Zone Ecology Forum p. 20. Kimberley, South Africa.

Du Toit, J.C.O. & O’Connor, T.G., 2020. Long-term influence of season of grazing and rainfall on vegetation in the

eastern Karoo, South Africa. African Journal of Range and Forage Science 37, 159-171.

Du Toit, J.C.O & O’Connor T.G. 2020. Investigating the drivers of vegetation change in the eastern Karoo. SAEON

eNews 2020 #04. https://enews.saeon.ac.za/issue-04-2020/investigating-the-drivers-of-vegetation-change-in-the-

eastern-karoo/.

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A monitoring framework towards rangeland monitoring and management within the arid and semi-

arid rangelands of the Eastern and Northern Cape - Middelburg area

J.C.O. du Toit and T.P. Nengwenani

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the Middelburg project and sub-projects are to:

• Conduct herbaceous surveys in four land uses types in the Middelburg area, establishing differences and changes

in vegetation condition and patterns within and between different land use types

• Perform basic resource inventories pertaining to rangeland condition, current grazing capacity, biodiversity

indices and indicator plant species, and compare it with previous inventories where available in order to quantify

changes in temporal scale

• Integrate and interrelate multivariate data to establish patterns within and between land uses and determine the

environmental variables (vegetation type, climate, habitat heterogeneity, land area, historical influence) that are

responsible for the greatest proportion of its variation

• Develop and present Further Education and Farmer Development training products and courses.

A framework towards rangeland monitoring and management within the arid and semi-arid

rangelands of the Eastern and Northern Cape - Carnarvon area

L. van den Berg

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to monitor and quantify the effect of feral goats introduced from the Tanqua National Park on

the vegetation at the Carnarvon Research Station.

The objectives of the project are:

• To conduct vegetation surveys at each of the selected monitoring sites over years to describe:

o Plant species composition

o Veld condition

o Grazing capacity

• To make recommendations on future grazing management of the goats at Carnarvon Research Station.

PUBLICATIONS

The following were published from this project:

Van den Berg, L. & Du Toit, J.C.O., 2014. Effects of stocking rate on sheep management and vegetation composition

at Carnarvon. Grootfontein Agric 14(1), 34-41.

Du Toit, J.C.O., Van den Berg, L. & O’Connor, T.G., 2015. A summary of rainfall at the Carnarvon Experiment

Station, 1931-2013. Grootfontein Agric 15(1), 27-35.

Van der Merwe, H., Du Toit, J.C.O., Van den Berg, L. & O’Connor, T.G., 2018. Impact of sheep grazing intensity on

vegetation at the Arid Karoo Stocking Rate Trial after 27 years, Carnarvon, South Africa. Journal of Arid

Environments. 155, 36-45.

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The effects of grazing of different small stock breeds at different stocking rates on Eastern Karoo

vegetation

J.C.O du Toit

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to determine interacting effects of various breeds of livestock at different stocking rates on

vegetation composition and structure in the eastern Karoo.

The objectives of the study are to:

• Determine the effects of livestock breeds and stocking rates on vegetation composition and structure

• Determine the patterns of change in the vegetation composition and structure over time

• Determine the role of other environmental variables on vegetation composition and structure

• Provide visual records of changes in vegetation structure and composition using repeat photography

• Provide a site for an Eddy Covariance Flux Tower.

PUBLICATIONS


Simpson, K.J., Ripley, B.S., Du Toit, J.C., Christin, P., Thomas, G.H., Osborne, C.P., 2018. Flammability and post-fire

regrowth are linked in savanna grasses. Chapter 3. In: The influence of fire on grass functional traits. PhD Thesis.

University of Sheffield, England.

Berger, C., Bieri, M., Bradshaw, K., Brümmer, C., Clemen, T., Hickler, T., Kutsch, W.L., Lenfers, U.A., Martens, C.,

Midgley, G.F., Mukwashi, K., Odipo, V., Scheiter, S., Schmullius, C., Baade, J., Du Toit, J.C.O., Scholes, R.J.,

Smit, I.P.J., Stevens, N. & Twine, W., 2019. Linking scales and disciplines: an interdisciplinary cross-scale

approach to supporting climate-relevant ecosystem management. Climatic Change 156, 139-150.

59

Other projects in which activities could not take place as planned due to the COVID-19 lockdown are:

A monitoring framework towards rangeland monitoring and management within the arid and semi-

arid rangelands of the Eastern and Northern Cape - Beaufort West area

J.C.O. du Toit

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the Beaufort West project and sub-projects are:

• To establish a repeat-point photograph monitoring programme at the Landmark Foundation with a view of

understanding the utility of this approach for monitoring of landscapes elsewhere

• Monitor the influence of high-density grazing (notably the temporary kraaling aspect) on plant composition,

survival, and potential alien plant invasion

• In collaboration with other partners, conduct vegetation surveys at fixed sites and monitor changes over time.

• To develop and present Further Education and Farmer Development training products and courses.

Fire monitoring in the Karoo and adjacent biomes

J.C.O. du Toit

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to monitor vegetation changes following wildfires in the Karoo and adjacent biomes.


• Take baseline photographs of areas burnt by wildfires, and boundaries between burnt and unburnt areas

• Undertake baseline compositional surveys of adjacent burnt and unburnt areas

• Monitor change over time of vegetation following burning.

PUBLICATIONS


Du Toit, J.C.O., 2020. Keer so dat die Karoo brand. Landbou Weekblad. 17 September 2020. pp 34-35.

Du Toit, J.C.O., Van den Berg, L., Van Lingen, M., Goodall, V.L. & O’Connor, T.G., 2020. Catastrophic collapses of

sensitive species, including the quiver tree (Aloidendron dichotomum) following fire in the arid Nama-Karoo,

South Africa. 55th Annual Congress of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa pp. 34-35. Virtual Event.

Monitoring changes in vegetation structure using high resolution drone orthophotography

J.C.O. du Toit

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of the project is to use high resolution drone orthophotographs to map shrub distribution and monitor

vegetation change at Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute.


• Create high resolution orthophotographs of grazing trials and other areas at Grootfontein

• Determine the density and distribution of Karoo dwarf shrubs in areas using orthophotographs

• Examine landscape scale patterns of vegetation cover

• Monitor landscapes over time on Grootfontein and elsewhere

• Use drone imagery to develop a Decision Support System for farmers

• Use drone imagery to develop a model for estimating the density of termite mounds in Karoo rangelands.

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BISMOP (Biome Shift Monitoring Phytometer): Installing a standardised data base for ecological

responses to environmental change

J.C.O. du Toit

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to monitor vegetation changes in a common garden experiment, known as BISMOP (Biome

Shift Monitoring Phytometer), in the Karoo and other Southern African biomes.


• Create a standardised data base for ecological response to environmental change

• Quantify phenological time series for each species in different biomes.

investigation into production and reproduction …

Documents