[Jacob-list] Re: Lamb missing something

[MarmontJacobs at aol.com]

Katrina - I expect it's my post you are responding to. I quite agree about 
not weeding out most recessive traits and keeping the gene pool as wide as 
possible, but surely this recessive trait is different...being the provider 
of the genetic material in the first place. Overwarmed sperm is unhealthy, 
has reduced mobility and fertility and will carry many more defects alongside 
just being short in the tackle department. And as for not crossing with 
another carrier - how are you to know whether the ewe carries or not? Just 
not using males with this characteristic has in studies reduced the incidence 
by 18-28%.

Trisha
Marmont Jacobs, Montgomeryshire