EQUINE REPRODUCTION
AGR2EQR
Not currently offered
Credit points: 15
Subject outline
This subject introduces reproductive anatomy and physiology of the breeding animal and relates this to their management and selection. The importance of maximizing reproductive efficiency as a management goal and identifying key areas that contribute to reproductive inefficiency in the horse are explored. Practical skills in managing procedures relating to equine reproduction are undertaken in a simulated and real workplace environment.
School: School of Life Sciences
Credit points: 15
Subject Co-ordinator: Penelope Smith
Available to Study Abroad Students: No
Subject year level: Year Level 2 - UG
Exchange Students: No
Subject particulars
Subject rules
Prerequisites: N/A
Co-requisites: N/A
Incompatible subjects: N/A
Equivalent subjects: N/A
Special conditions: The student is expected to work with live animals. All use of animals is regulated through the Scientific Procedures Licence and The Australian Code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.
Learning resources
Readings
| Resource Type | Title | Resource Requirement | Author and Year | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Readings | Equine reproductive physiology, breeding and stud management | Prescribed | Davies Morel, MCG 2015 | 4TH EDN, CABI PUBLISHING, WALLINGFORD |
| Readings | Equine reproduction | Recommended | McKinnon, AO, Squires, EL, Valla, WE & Varner, DD 2011 | 2ND REV EDN, IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY PRESS, ARNES AI |
| Readings | Current therapy in equine reproduction | Recommended | Samper, JC, Pycock, JF & McKinnon, AO 2007 | SAUNDERS, LONDON |
| Readings | Equine breeding management and artificial insemination | Recommended | Samper, J 2008 | 2ND EDN, SAUNDERS, PHILADELPHIA, PA |
| Readings | The horse from conception to maturity | Recommended | Rossdale, PD & Bailey, M 2002 | 2ND EDN, J.A. ALLEN & CO., LONDON |
Graduate capabilities & intended learning outcomes
01. Discuss theoretical knowledge of the basis of inheritance and genetics for breeding.
- Activities:
- Lectures and tutorials to develop knowledge of equine genetics and inheritance.
02. Apply knowledge of equine reproductive management to practice.
- Activities:
- Practical sessions will provide students with the opportunity to consolidate horse handling skills and to develop specific skills in preparing mares for; the veterinarian; breeding and foaling down and handling stallions/teaser for the purposes of teasing and breeding mares. Administration of veterinary medicines will be undertaken under veterinary guidance.
03. Review advantages and disadvantages of breeding techniques and the implications for horse breeding.
- Activities:
- Observe breeding methods, associated OHS and welfare issues.
04. Discuss the relationship between the endocrine systems that regulate reproductive physiology and behavioural changes in horses.
- Activities:
- Lectures will be used to deliver theoretical knowledge and provide suitable examples; tutorials will provide students with the opportunity to undertake self-directed learning and / or apply knowledge through problem solving activities.
05. Coherently explain the physiological rationale behind selection of stud stock.
- Activities:
- Lectures, tutorials, workshops and excursions will be used to address the conformational selection of breeding stock and to observe veterinary interventions on both mares and stallions during the breeding season.