Search

ABSTRACT This report describes an outbreak of exogenous organophosphate poisoning in a flock of Lacaune sheep. Forty sheep had signs of delayed poisoning after accidental exposure to an organophosphate-based insecticide (Diclorvol 1000 CE®, Diclorvós 82,5%, ChemoNE, Brazil). The clinical signs were bradycardia, bronchoconstriction, diarrhea, salivation, nasal discharge, apathy, prostration, motor incoordination, head pressing against objects, neck stiffness, paresis, flaccid paralysis of the limbs, permanent decubitus, pedaling movements in lateral decubitus, and death. After the onset of the clinical signs, sheep died in the flock over a period of sixty days. For the diagnosis, four animals were necropsied and samples of their brains, kidneys, and lungs were taken for toxicological analysis by thin layer chromatography; blood samples were also taken for biochemical analysis. The following was detected: liver alterations in serum biochemistry; pneumonia, edema, and congestion in macroscopic pathological analysis; hepatic microsteatosis, congestion, edema, and hemorrhage in lung, kidney, and liver histology; and organophosphates in the pool of samples from the sheep that were necropsied. The association between the epidemiological clinical findings and the laboratory results showed a clinical picture of organophosphate-induced delayed polyneuropathy, highly lethal in sheep, which alerts to the risk of improper use of these substances in animal facilities.

In temperate Europe, sheep predominantly mate in autumn and lamb in the spring. In contrast, present-day Mediterranean husbandries practice autumn lambing, with benefits in terms of natural resource use and seasonal availability of animal products. Autumnal lambing is enabled by the conjunction of a capability of some Mediterranean breeds for "out-of-season" breeding, intentional scheduling by the herder, and autumnal rains providing forage resources for lactation. Autumn and winter sheep births have been demonstrated at Neolithic sites in the western Mediterranean. More works are needed to define the conditions leading to their emergence. This line of research uses oxygen isotope analysis in sheep teeth and involves modern references to define birth season. The existing references were biased in favor of winter and spring births. In this study, we enlarge them with 30 additional teeth from Lacaune and Merino sheep, including mainly summer and autumn births. Experiments were also conducted on Lacaune ewes, to address theoretical grounds on the implementation of autumn births: it implies to preserve females from conceptions by separating the sexes in autumn and re-introducing the rams among females in the spring. This second step also produces a "male effect." We show that in the Lacaune breed, the proportion of spontaneously cyclic ewes in the spring is low in the absence of males and remains minor when the ewes are left in permanent contact with rams. On the other hand, we were able to implement a highly efficient male effect using non-sexually stimulated males, demonstrating that this practice could have been implemented by Neolithic herders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to estimate the effects of crossbreeding on milk production and milk components in crossbred Tsigai, Lacaune, and Improved Wallachian sheep used to create a synthetic Slovak dairy sheep population. The local breeds Tsigai and Improved Wallachian were crossed with the high-yielding breed Lacaune to increase milk yield. The effects of crossbreeding were evaluated based on breed and heterosis effects. The database used consisted of 23 018 lactations from 15 888 ewes. The effects of crossbreeding on milk production and fat and protein content were estimated using the restricted maximum likelihood method in REMLF90. Fixed effects on milk yield were also studied. In ewes with a 100% heterosis effect (ewes from purebred parents of different breeds), the heterosis effect increased milk production by 11.642 kg, milk fat production by 0.772 kg, and protein production by 0.565 kg per milking period. The effect of the Tsigai breed on milk production was -21.98 kg compared to Lacaune, while for the Improved Wallachian breed, the value was -38.58 kg. The Tsigai direct breed effect reduced fat production by 1.56 kg and protein production by 1.34 kg. The Improved Wallachian direct breed effect was -2.71 kg for fat production and -2.27 kg for protein production.

Background: Neonatal mortality is a significant multifactorial problem that affects flock productivity. Different infectious and non-infectious factors have been attributed to lamb losses. The objective of the present study was to identify the major causes of neonatal mortality. Methods: In a 3-months period, 114 Lacaune breed lambs died of which 52 animals were lost with clinical signs of infection. Heart and lung samples were collected and transmitted to the laboratory. Microbiological cultures following biochemical tests were conducted to identify bacterial infection of the lambs. Results: A total of 52 out of 114 lambs (45.6%) were infected with bacteria. The bacteria including Escherichia coli (30.8%), Proteus mirabilis (19.2%), Pasteurella multocida (1.5%), Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis (7.7%), Mannheimia haemolytica (3.9%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (1.9%) were isolated. The role of the identified pathogens was more significant in lamb death compared to noninfection causes. Diarrhea was the most euoitcefni disease followed by septicemia and pneumonia. Escherichia coli was isolated significantly more than other bacterial agents (30.8%). Conclusion: The present findings showed Escherichia coli as the most common pathogen leading to lamb losses in the first two weeks of life. ciieigyeiuet practice which encompasses both environment and milking equipment, periodical flaming, and providing dry and clean bedding can dramatically decrease the infection among uiobfeu animals. Reduction of the birth density and avoiding synchronization until the expert and labor capacity has reached the optimal level are necessary actions to reduce infectious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the concentrations of essential trace and toxic elements in the milk of Lacaune sheep during lactation in intensive rearing systems. This research was conducted with 30 Lacaune sheep that were monitored in the early (60 days of lactation), medium (120 days of lactation), and late (180 days of lactation) stages of lactation. The sheep were fed a pelleted feed mixture (1 kg/day), a cereal mixture (600 g/day), and alfalfa hay (ad libitum). The essential (Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Mn, Mo, Se, Cr, and Ni) and toxic element (heavy metals: Cd, Pb, As, and Hg) concentrations in the feed and milk were determined using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Significant variations in the main essential trace and toxic elements, except for the Mo, Se, Ni, As, and Hg concentrations, were found in the milk of Lacaune sheep during lactation. As lactation progressed, in the late stage of lactation, significantly higher concentrations of Co, Mn, Mo, Cr, and Pb were found, while Zn and Cu in the milk of Lacaune sheep decreased significantly (4.15 and 0.21 mg/kg) compared to their concentrations in the early stage of lactation (5.66 and 0.43 mg/kg). Significantly lower concentrations of Fe and higher concentrations of Cd were found in the medium stage (0.23 mg/kg and 1.08 µg/kg) of lactation compared to both the early and late stages of lactation. An analysis of the correlation coefficients between the essential trace and toxic elements in Lacaune sheep milk during lactation determined a significantly positive correlation between Fe:Cr, Fe:Mn, Fe:Co, Fe:Se, Zn:Ni, Zn:Se, Cr:Mn, Cr:Co, Cr:Se, Cr:Mo, Mn:Co, Mn:Pb, Co:Ni, Co:Se, Ni:Se, Se:Mo, Se:Pb, and Cd:Pb. A significantly negative correlation was also found between Cu:Mn, Zn:Mo, Cg:Hg, and Hg:Pb. Based on the obtained results, it is recommended that the influence of the stage of lactation, as well as the breed of sheep, should be included when designing experiments. In general, sheep milk is rich in essential trace elements, but it also contains a very low content of toxic elements, which provides justification for increasing the breeding of Lacaune sheep and indicates the convenience of consuming their milk without risking the consumer's health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to estimate the effects of crossbreeding on milk production and milk components in crossbred Tsigai, Lacaune, and Improved Wallachian sheep used to create a synthetic Slovak dairy sheep population. The local breeds Tsigai and Improved Wallachian were crossed with the high-yielding breed Lacaune to increase milk yield. The effects of crossbreeding were evaluated based on breed and heterosis effects. The database used consisted of 23 018 lactations from 15 888 ewes. The effects of crossbreeding on milk production and fat and protein content were estimated using the restricted maximum likelihood method in REMLF90. Fixed effects on milk yield were also studied. In ewes with a 100% heterosis effect (ewes from purebred parents of different breeds), the heterosis effect increased milk production by 11.642 kg, milk fat production by 0.772 kg, and protein production by 0.565 kg per milking period. The effect of the Tsigai breed on milk production was -21.98 kg compared to Lacaune, while for the Improved Wallachian breed, the value was -38.58 kg. The Tsigai direct breed effect reduced fat production by 1.56 kg and protein production by 1.34 kg. The Improved Wallachian direct breed effect was -2.71 kg for fat production and -2.27 kg for protein production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neonatal mortality is a significant multifactorial problem that affects flock productivity. Different infectious and non-infectious factors have been attributed to lamb losses. The objective of the present study was to identify the major causes of neonatal mortality. Methods: In a 3-months period, 114 Lacaune breed lambs died of which 52 animals were lost with clinical signs of infection. Heart and lung samples were collected and transmitted to the laboratory. Microbiological cultures following biochemical tests were conducted to identify bacterial infection of the lambs. Results: A total of 52 out of 114 lambs (45.6%) were infected with bacteria. The bacteria including Escherichia coli (30.8%), Proteus mirabilis (19.2%), Pasteurella multocida (1.5%), Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis (7.7%), Mannheimia haemolytica (3.9%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (1.9%) were isolated. The role of the identified pathogens was more significant in lamb death compared to non-infection causes. Diarrhea was the most infectious disease followed by septicemia and pneumonia. Escherichia coli was isolated significantly more than other bacterial agents (30.8%). Conclusion: The present findings showed Escherichia coli as the most common pathogen leading to lamb losses in the first two weeks of life. The hygienic practice which encompasses both environment and milking equipment, periodical flaming, and providing dry and clean bedding can dramatically decrease the infection among newborn animals. Reduction of the birth density and avoiding synchronization until the expert and labor capacity has reached the optimal level are necessary actions to reduce infectious diseases.

The aim of the study was to estimate correlations between milk yield and growth traits. The biological material was 282 Lacaune ewes and traits studied were: milk yield (MY), body weight (BW), height at withers (HW), height at rump (HR), torso length (TL), chest width (CW), rump width (RW), chest depth (CD), chest girth (CG) and metacarpal circumference (MC). The data obtained were statistically processed and interpreted. Average values for milk yield was 120.86 kg for 135 days; average values for morphological traits was 65.10 kg for BW, 62.48 cm for WH, 63.23 cm for RW, 55.25 cm for TL, 25.04 cm for CW, 23.60 cm for RW, 24.06 cm for CD, 84.07 cm for CG and 6.91 cm for MC. Correlations were determined by Pearson test and correlation coefficients had values of +0.13 between MY x BW, -0.02 between MY x WH, -0.19 MY x RH, +0.12 between MY x TL, -0.03 between MY x CW, -0.08 between MY x RW, +0.03 between MY x CD, +0.002 between MY x CG and -0.06 between MY x MC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the concentrations of essential trace and toxic elements in the milk of Lacaune sheep during lactation in intensive rearing systems. This research was conducted with 30 Lacaune sheep that were monitored in the early (60 days of lactation), medium (120 days of lactation), and late (180 days of lactation) stages of lactation. The sheep were fed a pelleted feed mixture (1 kg/day), a cereal mixture (600 g/day), and alfalfa hay (ad libitum). The essential (Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Mn, Mo, Se, Cr, and Ni) and toxic element (heavy metals: Cd, Pb, As, and Hg) concentrations in the feed and milk were determined using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Significant variations in the main essential trace and toxic elements, except for the Mo, Se, Ni, As, and Hg concentrations, were found in the milk of Lacaune sheep during lactation. As lactation progressed, in the late stage of lactation, significantly higher concentrations of Co, Mn, Mo, Cr, and Pb were found, while Zn and Cu in the milk of Lacaune sheep decreased significantly (4.15 and 0.21 mg/kg) compared to their concentrations in the early stage of lactation (5.66 and 0.43 mg/kg). Significantly lower concentrations of Fe and higher concentrations of Cd were found in the medium stage (0.23 mg/kg and 1.08 µg/kg) of lactation compared to both the early and late stages of lactation. An analysis of the correlation coefficients between the essential trace and toxic elements in Lacaune sheep milk during lactation determined a significantly positive correlation between Fe:Cr, Fe:Mn, Fe:Co, Fe:Se, Zn:Ni, Zn:Se, Cr:Mn, Cr:Co, Cr:Se, Cr:Mo, Mn:Co, Mn:Pb, Co:Ni, Co:Se, Ni:Se, Se:Mo, Se:Pb, and Cd:Pb. A significantly negative correlation was also found between Cu:Mn, Zn:Mo, Cg:Hg, and Hg:Pb. Based on the obtained results, it is recommended that the influence of the stage of lactation, as well as the breed of sheep, should be included when designing experiments. In general, sheep milk is rich in essential trace elements, but it also contains a very low content of toxic elements, which provides justification for increasing the breeding of Lacaune sheep and indicates the convenience of consuming their milk without risking the consumer’s health.

This paper aimed the monitoring of the average daily gain, from birth until the age of 8 months, of White Turcana x Lacaune hybrid lambs in comparison with White Turcana lambs. The investigations were performed in S.C.D.C.O.C. Caransebes. This study emphasized that in the first day of life, at weaning and at the age of 2 months the White Turcana x Lacaune hybrid lambs have not a significant (p>0.05) higher average daily gain in comparison with Turcana lambs. At the age from 2 to 8 months the hybrid lambs reached (113 g/day) a significant average daily gain (p

Objective of the current research was to evaluate the effects of crossbreeding the French Lacaune breed with Romanian indigenous Turcana sheep on milk production traits in crossbred ewes. Milk yield in Turcana ewes was on average 77.98±2.73 kg, with limits ranging between 64.67kg and 92.01kg. While in the F1 Lacaune x Turcana, the average milk production was of 109.04±4.70 kg, with limits ranging between 89.23kg and 129.76kg. The F1 Lacaune x Turcana ewes outperformed significantly (p0.05) on the fat percentage from milk. Current results show that by using Lacaune rams for crossbreeding with the unimproved Turcana, the progeny will have significantly higher milk yields, and thus, the farm returns could be much improved in sheep enterprises that practice the semi-intensive pasture-based farming system. Thus, current results should be advertised to both farmers and the breeders associations, in order for the sheep farmers to take advantage of the breed complementarity found between the specialized Lacaune and the local Turcana.

Dominating in recent years in Bulgaria are the sheep from the Bulgarian Dairy Synthetic Population (BDSP) and its crosses with other dairy breeds. This in turn leads to significant, scientifically based genetic and phenotypic diversity and different levels of productivity. The aim of the study is to research and characterize the genotypic parameters of the main productive and reproductive traits in sheep from the Bulgarian dairy synthetic population and its crosses with the breeds Lacaune and Assaf. The study includes a total of 3212 ewes reared in 15 farms, as from Bulgarian dairy synthetic population-1114 ewes, BDSP crosses with Assaf-1052 ewes and BDSP crosses with Lacaune-1046 ewes, born in the period from 2014 to 2019 including. Studied trait were: milk yield for a standard 120-day period of I, II and III lactation, biological fertility of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd lambing and the trait-live weight of different age categories. The statistical model used was based on the model of animal /Animalmodel /, using the software product VCE and PEST (Groeneveld). Heritability in the main selection trait milk yield of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd lactation reaches from low to moderate and medium values. The lowest level of genetic diversity is in BDSP-h² varies from 0.125 to 0.157, in BDSP x Assaf from 0.131 to 0.202, and with the highest genetic diversity in the studied trait are ewes BDSP x Lacaune, respectively from 0.342 to 0.397. The rates of fertility in all three studied groups were from low to moderate h²-in BDSP from 0.133 to 0.156, in BDSP x Lacaune-from 0.040 to 0.112 and in BDSP x Assaf-from 0.100 to 0.122.

Bulgarian Dairy Synthetic Population (BDSP) and its crosses with other dairy breeds are the most numerous sheep population in Bulgaria. There are significant phenotypic diversities and different levels of productivity. The aim of the study is to research and characterize the phenotypic parameters of the main productive and reproductive traits in sheep from the Bulgarian dairy synthetic population and its crosses with the breeds Lacaune and Assaf. The study includes a total of 3212 ewes BDSP and their crosses with Assaf and Lacaune. Studied trait were: milk yield for a standard 120-day period of I, II and III lactation, biological fertility of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd lambing and the trait-live weight of different age categories. The software product SYSTST 13 and SPSS-Descripive statistics were used to conduct the study. With the highest milk yield of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd lactation were the sheep BDSP x Lacaune-186.28 l, 194.03 l, 200.56 l, followed by BDSP x Assaf-184.27 l, 191.87 l and 198.64 l and those of BDSP-134.18 l, 139.48 l and 144.33 l. The average phenotypic values of the traits live weight at weaning, at 18 months and 2.5 years are close-respectively in BDSP-25.21 kg, 60.59 kg and 65.50 kg, for BDSP x Lacaune-25.17 kg, 60.52 kg, 65.44 kg and for BDSP x Assaf-25.19 kg, 60.58 kg, 65.67 kg. Fertility indicates the highest average values of the crosses BDSP with Lacaune from 1.53 to 1.59, followed by BDSP x Assaf from 1.40 to 1.46. The lowest fertility rate had the ewes from BDSP from 1.22 to 1.25.

Background: Effect of the epigenetic factors on the male fertility is well proofed. Sperm acts as a carrier of genetic material, and its DNA methylome can affect maternal pregnancy rate and offspring phenotype. However, the research on the DNA methylation in the spermatozoids of livestock males, in particular rams, is still limited. To best of our knowledge the data about as a global as well as gene specific DNA methylation in ram spermatozoa from different breeds and ages are missed in the scientific literature. The present study was designed to analyze the relationship between methylation levels of the important for spermatogenesis gene SIRT1 in spermatozoa and fertilizing ability of sperm in rams from different breeds and ages. Materials, Methods & Results: The ejaculates of 16 rams from Lacaune, East Friesian and Assaf breeds at age between 18 to 96 months were evaluated. The kinematic parameters of 2 semen samples from each animal were estimated by CASA. The separated spermatozoa were used for DNA extraction followed by bisulfite conversion. The DNA methylation of SIRT1 was detected through quantitative methylation-specific PCR using 2 sets of primers designed specifically for bisulfite-converted DNA sequences to attach methylated and unmethylated sites. The breed and age effect on the gene SIRT1 methylation by ANOVA was estimated. Experimental females included 393 clinically healthy milk ewes (Lacaune, n = 131; East Friesian sheep, n = 100 and Assaf, n = 162) in breeding season. Reproductive performances (conception rate at lambing, lambing percentage and fecundity) of ewes, inseminated by sperm of the investigated rams, were statistically processed. ANOVA showed that the animal breed influences significantly on the level of DNA methylation of gene SIRT1 in ram spermatozoa (P = 0.002) An average value of DNA methylation of SIRT1 in ram sperm from Lacaune breed was significantly higher than in Assaf and East Friesian (81.21 ± 15.1% vs 36.7 ± 14.2% and 38.3 ± 18.6 respectively, P < 0.01). The highest percent of SIRT1 methylation was observed in old animals compared to the young and middle-age. Moderate and strong correlations (r from 0.44 to 0.71, P < 0.05) between the methylation level of the SIRT1 gene in rams' sperm and reproductive parameters of inseminated ewes in all breeds were established. Discussion: Our data are the first message about the effect of breed on the specificity of DNA methylation of gene SIRT1 in ram spermatozoa. These results demonstrated an existence of the sheep breeds with high and low level of DNA methylation of gene SIRT1 in ram sperm. Although the effect of age on the methylation level in sperm is still discussable, our results showed a moderate correlation between age and methylation level of SIRT1 in spermatozoa of rams. Taking into account that DNA methylation in sperm is stabilized with puberty onset and is a heritable epigenetic modification, it can be a promising marker of sperm quality in animal breeding. In all investigated breeds the rams with relatively high level of DNA methylation of gene SIRT1 in spermatozoa (50-68%) demonstrated a high conception rate at lambing (> 70%). In conclusion, the DNA methylation level of the SIRT1 gene in ram spermatozoa is determined by both the breed and the age of the animals and correlates with fertilizing ability of sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intravaginal devices containing progestins are widely used for oestrus synchronization in sheep. Progestins give economic benefits to farmers but may have some limitations and the efficacy strictly depends on farm management. There are different devices, with different molecules (progesterone, medroxyprogesterone acetate, fluorogestone acetate), different dosages and long (12-14 days) and short-term (5-7 days) protocols. Experimental studies often include a limited number of animals and are held at different latitudes and with different system of management. To our knowledge, there are few reports in the literature on field application of the recently licensed 20 mg fluorogestone acetate (FGA) sponges in large ewe flocks, excluding the registration trials. Materials, Methods & Results: This study was designed to evaluate oestrous synchronization in 2 different breeds. A total of 1100 Lacaune (L) and 618 Sarda (S) were assigned to 8 groups, comparing multiparous (M) and nulliparous (N) and those synchronized in November (n) and May (m). The groups were: LMm (n. 556), LNm (n. 180), SMm (n. 70), SNm (n. 32), LMn (n. 242), LNn (n. 222), SMn (n. 440) e SNn (n. 76). The intravaginal sponge was inserted for 14 days. At sponge withdrawal, eCG (400 IU, IM) was injected, and rams were joined into flocks 30 h later with a male/female ratio of 1:8. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed for pregnancy diagnosis after 30 days. Fertility parameters such as oestrus (OR), pregnancy (PR), lambing rates (LR) and prolificacy were calculated. Fisher exact test was used to compare parameters of each group with the corresponding and significance was set at P < 0.01. The use of intravaginal sponges in this study was easily performed in all animals. In nulliparous groups, digital insertion of the sponge, instead of the applicator, was preferred to avoid discomfort. Sponge loss was observed in 2% of treated ewes. At the removal of the sponge, mild vaginal contamination was observed in 90% of the ewes. Ultrasound finding of embryo resorption, pseudopregnancy and pyometra were found in rates under 2%. The loss of pregnancy ranged from 0 to 3.6% without significant differences among groups. The SMn group showed the best performances (0.91 OR, 0.88 PR, 0.85 LR), significantly higher than the other groups. Prolificacy was maximum in the LMn (1.68) and minimum in the SNm group (1.06), without significant differences among groups. Discussion: The 14-day regimen based on 20 mg FGA-releasing intravaginal devices is an easy and satisfactory synchronization regimen to improve the productivity and the fertility of sheep farm, and this can be managed and optimized in different breeding conditions. In this study, Sarda breed shows a good adaption to the environment with adult ewes giving the best results in reproductive season. However young Sarda ewes were less productive especially in non-breading season. Lacaune showed good reproductive potential, young and adult ewes responded to progestins in reproductive and non-reproductive season. It was confirmed that the reproductive performance is affected by season, age, and breed. This study encourages the breeding of indigenous breeds by implementing the management with modern technologies. The imported highly productive breeds, if well managed, can give a production less influenced by seasonal variables and age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to analyze milk yield and somatic cell count (SCC) expressed as somatic cell sore (SCS) in Lacaune dairy breed. Data from milk performance testing recorded between 2016 and 2018 (farm in West Slovakia) were used. A total, 377 individual milk yield and SCC records of 61 ewes (first, second and third lacation, respectively) were analysed. Mixed model for milk yield included fixed factors: SCC class (lowest, low, middle, high and highest), year of measurement, lactation number, month in milk and interaction between month in milk and SCC class, and random factors of ewe and error. Mixed model for SCS included milk yield class (lowest, low, middle, high, highest), year of measurement, lactation number, month in milk and interaction between month in milk and milk yield class. Random factors of ewe and error were considered as well. Milk yield was significantly affected ( p

The objective was to describe potential associations of somatic cell counts (SCC) and total bacterial counts (TBC) in bulk-tank milk from sheep and goat farms with breeds of these animals in Greece. In total, 325 dairy sheep flocks and 119 dairy goat herds were visited for the collection of milk; the breed of animals in farms was evaluated for a potential association with SCC or TBC. The most frequently seen sheep breeds were the Lacaune (95 flocks) and the Chios (44 flocks). The most frequently seen goat breeds were the indigenous Greek (Capra prisca) (50 herds) and the Murciano-Granadina (13 herds). In a multivariable analysis, the breed and the application of machine-milking in sheep flocks, and the breed and the management system in goat herds emerged as significant factors for increased SCC (>0.75 × 106 cells mL−1) in bulk-tank milk. Further, the month of lactation at sampling in sheep flocks emerged a significant factor for increased TBC (>1500 × 103 cfu mL−1) in bulk-tank milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Two six-month old female Lacaune lambs with severe skeletal malformations of both front limbs were presented to the Department of Farm Animals, University of Zurich. The clinical examination showed alert animals with a high body weight and body condition score as well as a valgus deformation without pain or swelling. Radiographic examination showed severe irregularities in the epiphysial plate of the metacarpal bones in both lambs. Delayed growth in the lateral aspects of the physis was evident and resulted in valgus deformation. Nutritional causes were considered as the main reason for this presentation and a nutritional consultation was performed by the Institute of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Zurich. The estimated energy intake of these lambs was 65 % higher than the recommended maximum for growing sheep and the estimated vitamin D content of the diet was 71 % below the recommended allowance. Both animals were euthanized, and peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) was performed postmortem to measure total bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone mineral density (tBMD) and cortical bone mineral density (cBMD) of the left and right metatarsal bone of both animals. The BMD and the tBMD at 10 % of bone length were below the reference values and the BMD at 50 % was above the reference values. In addition, postmortem examination revealed a Salter-Harris-Typ-1 facture in the right caput humeri of one lamb. Histological evaluation showed defects in the articular cartilage with an eburnation in the metacarpal region and a disrupted area of columnar cartilage. This case report supports the fact that a high dietary energy intake leads to damage to the cartilage and the epiphyseal zone in sheep. In addition, insufficient dietary vitamin D intake contributed to the incomplete bone mineralization, as well as delayed growth and skeletal malformation.

The adaptation potential and resistance to stress of Lacaune rams, imported from southern France to environmental and climatic conditions in Bulgaria were investigated. The following blood parameters were assayed on day 15, month 2 and one year after the import: complete blood counts, total cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, globulins, cortisol, triiodothyronine (Т3) and thyroxine (Т4). Blood serum concentrations of hormones were determined by enzymatic microimmune assay on an AccuBindTM ELISA Test System. It was found out that adaptation potential of rams was good - the values of most of analysed parameters were regained with period of adaptation that lasted more than 2 months after the import and ended within a year after that. Adaptation was accompanied by metabolic changes - reduction of blood serum glucose (p<0.001), cholesterol (р<0.01), albumins (р<0.01) and alkaline phosphatase (p<0.001), and increase in ALAT (р<0.01) and GGT (р<0.05) activities. The elevation (р<0.001) in serum cortisol, triiodothyronine (Т3) and thyroxine (Т4) corresponded to presence of idiopathic stress, while the lack of negative health and behavioural signs indicated good resistance to stress, making Lacaune sheep breed appropriate for raising in conditions specific for the Republic of Bulgaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to high levels of parasite resistance to different commercial active ingredients, new control alternatives are being studied, including the phytotherapy. These measures aim to search for auxiliary methods in the control of parasitic diseases. However, there are many products available in the market and there are no scientific proof of its efficacy. The objective of this study was to evaluate the hematological and hepatic effects following administration of Neem pie (Azadirachta indica) in sheep. Three concentrations of Neem cake was added to the mineral salt (1, 2 and 4 %) and administered during 126 days to 32 Lacaune breed sheeps, divided into four groups: three groups for different treatments and a and a control were tested, the ladder receiving only mineral salt. Blood samples were taken every 21 days to perform the complete blood count, serum total plasma protein and fibrinogen and liver biochemical evaluation. In those same times, fecal samples were collected for quantification of eggs per gram of feces (EPG). Statistical differences between times and groups for several variables were observed, but without being related to the administration of Neem pie. The results of complete blood count, measurement of total plasma protein, fibrinogen and hepatic clinical biochemistry indicated that administration of Neem pie at concentrations of 1, 2 and 4%, does not interfere in hematological values, or on the integrity and liver function Lacaune sheep breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to analyze milk yield and somatic cell count (SCC) expressed as somatic cell sore (SCS) in Lacaune dairy breed. Data from milk performance testing recorded between 2016 and 2018 (farm in West Slovakia) were used. A total, 377 individual milk yield and SCC records of 61 ewes (first, second and third lacation, respectively) were analysed. Mixed model for milk yield included fixed factors: SCC class (lowest, low, middle, high and highest), year of measurement, lactation number, month in milk and interaction between month in milk and SCC class, and random factors of ewe and error. Mixed model for SCS included milk yield class (lowest, low, middle, high, highest), year of measurement, lactation number, month in milk and interaction between month in milk and milk yield class. Random factors of ewe and error were considered as well. Milk yield was significantly affected (p <0.05 or p <0.01) by all investigated factors. Except for interaction between month in milk and milk yield class, the remaining factors significantly affected (p <0.05 or p <0.01) also SCS. The analyses confirmed that SCC may be used as a useful indicator of udder health. It may help in identifying infected ewes, and thus, avoiding mammary infections to be spread throughout the whole flock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to describe potential associations of somatic cell counts (SCC) and total bacterial counts (TBC) in bulk-tank milk from sheep and goat farms with breeds of these animals in Greece. In total, 325 dairy sheep flocks and 119 dairy goat herds were visited for the collection of milk; the breed of animals in farms was evaluated for a potential association with SCC or TBC. The most frequently seen sheep breeds were the Lacaune (95 flocks) and the Chios (44 flocks). The most frequently seen goat breeds were the indigenous Greek (Capra prisca) (50 herds) and the Murciano-Granadina (13 herds). In a multivariable analysis, the breed and the application of machine-milking in sheep flocks, and the breed and the management system in goat herds emerged as significant factors for increased SCC (>0.75 × 106 cells mL−1) in bulk-tank milk. Further, the month of lactation at sampling in sheep flocks emerged a significant factor for increased TBC (>1500 × 103 cfu mL−1) in bulk-tank milk.

The aim of this study was to describe the health status of udder through analysis of somati cell count (SCC) in milk of Lacaune breed. The study was conducted at five Slovak farms. Milk yield recordings and milk samples were taken from March till August by certificated organisation for milk recording, where also milk analysis on SCC was processed. In total 1192 samples were analysed. Milk samples were divided into the five categories on the basis of SCC: SCC 6, 0.4 - 0.6 × 106, 0.6 - 1 × 106 and >106 cells.mL-1. Animals were divided into seven stages of lactation (first: 30-60 days of lactation and then each following 30 days a further group of lactation stage was considered). The Mixed model with Scheffe's analysis as a post hoc test was used. SCC on farm 3 was highest (5.80 ±0.04 log SCC mL-1) as compared with others farms (p 106 cells.mL-1 the highest percentage was on farm 4 (33.57%) and lowest on farm 2 (8.06%) though more representative percentage was on farm 5 (12.05%) due to larger number of animals. The negative effect of high SCC on milk yield was observed in all farms. Data also revealed that main part of individual milk samples had SCC below 0.6 × 106 cells.mL-1 which could be an important argument for future legislative establishment of limits for SCC in ewe's milk.

Objetivou-se avaliar o ganho de peso, consumo de alimentos e a saúde de cordeiros lactentes da raça Lacaune consumindo leite de ovelha ou sucedâneos lácteos com diferentes proporções de lactose (LAC). Foram utilizados 36 cordeiros machos lactentes, com aproximadamente seis dias de idade (4,98 ± 1,20 kg) e avaliados até o desmame (60 dias de idade). Estes foram divididos em 12 lotes, com três animais cada, e alojados em baias, correspondendo a quatro baias por tratamento. Os tratamentos experimentais foram: Leite de ovelha; Sucedâneo 36% LAC, sucedâneo lácteo contendo 36% de lactose e; sucedâneo 29% LAC, sucedâneo lácteo contendo 29% de lactose. Os cordeiros alimentados com sucedâneo 29% LAC apresentaram menores (p≤0,05) peso corporal final, ganho médio diário, consumo total de alimentos e pior conversão alimentar, em relação aos animais do tratamento Leite de ovelha. Os cordeiros que receberam Sucedâneo 36% LAC não diferiram (p>0,05) dos animais dos tratamentos Leite de ovelha e Sucedâneo 29% LAC para as variáveis acima citadas. Não houve efeito de tratamento (p>0,05) na taxa de mortalidade ou na ocorrência de diarreia. Assim, o Sucedâneo 36% LAC pode substituir o Leite de ovelhas sem prejuízos ao desempenho, consumo e saúde dos cordeiros, porém a utilização do sucedâneo 29% LAC, apesar de não ter afetado a saúde, pode reduzir o desempenho e o consumo de alimentos pelos cordeiros

Udder morphology and milking characteristics are one of the factors determining milkability in dairy ewes. Udder morphology traits were measured and subjectively assessed by the use of linear scores in 150 ewes of Lacaune (LC) and East Friesian (EF) dairy breeds. Linear scores were assessed for udder depth, cistern depth, teat placement, teat length, udder attachment, udder cleft, and udder shape. Nine traits characterized by milk production and milkability were analyzed in machine milking conditions (150 measurements). Analysis of variance was done by the GLM procedure of SAS statistical package. Extraordinary great variability in all traits of linear udder evaluation was detected, as well as in traits connected with milk production and milkability. The obtained results suggest that LC breed has better milkability parameters than EF breed. The differences in milk production and analysed parameters of milkability were too large between the individual flocks.

The objective was to evaluate growth performance, feed intake and health by suckling Lacaune lambs consuming ewe's milk or milk replacers with different lactose (LAC) ratios. Thirty-six male lambs with approximately six days of age (4,98 ± 1,20 kg) were used, and evaluated until weaning (60 days of age). These were divided in 12 cohorts, with three animals each, and housed in pens, corresponding to four pens per treatment. The experimental treatments were: Ewe's milk; Milk replacer 36% LAC, milk replacer containing 36% of lactose and; Milk replacer 29% LAC, milk replacer containing 29% of lactose. The lambs fed with Milk replacer 29% LAC showed lower (p≤0.05) final body weight, average daily gain, total feed intake and worse feed conversion, in relation to the animals treated with Ewe's milk. The lambs that received Milk replacer 36% LAC did not differ (p>0.05) from the animals treated with Ewe's milk and Milk replacer 29% LAC for the variables mentioned above. There was no treatment effect (p>0.05) on the mortality or diarrhea rate. Thus, Milk replacer 36% LAC can replace the Ewe's milk without impairing growth performance, intake and health of lambs, but the use of the Milk replacer 29% LAC, despite not having affected the health, can reduce the growth performance and feed intake in lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the research was to evaluate the influence of sex, breeding group, litter size and age of lambs when placed in lambing pens for their growth rate during rearing. The average daily gain of lambs was evaluated based on their weighing data each week after their placement into lambing pens. Lambs of I mproved Valachian, Tsigai and Lacaune breed (n=26) had been gradually integrated to the experiment. Artificial rearing was carried out using a feed slot machine. All lambs were weighted on a digital scale with an accuracy of 0.1 kg at birth, when placed in the lambing pens and then every week until weaning. The breeding group factor had no statistically significant effect on the average daily gain during milk rearing. The average daily gains of lambs at the end of milk rearing were the same for all experimental grups. The ewe lambs at the end of milk rearing reached a higher average daily gain than ram lambs; but we did not detect statistically significant influence of sex on the average daily gain. The litter size factor had a highly significant effect (P<0.01) only on the growth rate of lambs during the first week after beieng placed in the lambing pens. At the end of milk rearing, the average daily gain was the same for single-litter-lambs and twinlitter-lambs too. The difference of the age of their placement into lambing pens had no statistically significant effect on the weight of the lambs at the end of milk rearing. Statistically significant effect (P<0.05) was found in lambs of different age at their placement in the lambing pens on the average daily gain from placing in to the end of milk rearing. The lambs involved in rearing had a lower weight gains when placed into the lambing pens at an older age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the grade of crossbreeding (Lacaune x Manchega) and environmental factors on milk production in a commercial flock in Spain. A total of 5769 milk production records of sheep with different degrees of purity of the Lacaune breed crossed with Manchega were used as follows: 100% Lacaune (n = 2960), 7/8 Lacaune (n = 502), 13/16 Lacaune (n = 306), 3/4 (n = 1288), 5/8 Lacaune (n = 441) and 1/2 Lacaune: Manchega (n = 272). Additional available information included the number of parity (1 to 8), litter size (single or multiple), and the season of the year of lambing (spring, summer, autumn and winter). A mixed model was used to evaluate the level of crossbreeding and environmental factors on milk production. The 100% Lacaune sheep presented the highest milk production with respect to the F1 Lacaune x Manchega sheep (p < 0.01), showing that as the degree of gene absorption increases with the Manchega breed, it presents lower milk yield. The 100%, 13/16, and 3/4 Lacaune genotypes had the highest milk yields with respect to the 1/2 Lacaune/Manchega breed (p < 0.001). The Lacaune registered on average 181.1 L in a period adjusted to 160 days of lactation (1.13 L/ day). Likewise, the parity number, litter size, and season of lambing effects showed significant differences (p < 0.01). It was concluded that 13/16 and 3/4 Lacaune/Manchega ewes presented the highest milk yields with respect to the other crosses.

ABSTRACT: The somatic cell count (SCC) is a diagnostic tool that indicates the mammary gland health and can be determined by the counting of cells in the microscope. There are discussions regarding appropriate staining method to the ewes’ milk. The present study aimed to identify a methodology of microscopic SCC proper to the milk of the ovine species. Therefore, glass slides for smear were manufactured with 10 µL of ewe’s milk in 1 cm2, and the fixers xylol and Carnoy’s solution were tested, as well as and May-Grünwald, Broadhurst-Paley, Wrigth and Panoptic stainings. Carnoy’s solution was elected, because it allowed a better fixation of the dairy film to the microscope slides, and Broadhurst-Paley staining, due to its good coloration and visualization of cells, as well as the differentiation of cytoplasmic corpuscles in ewe’s milk. Broadhurst-Paley coloration is a tool applicable to the somatic cell count in ovine specie’s milk.

The aim of this study was to describe the health status of udder through analysis of somati cell count (SCC) in milk of Lacaune breed. The study was conducted at five Slovak farms. Milk yield recordings and milk samples were taken from March till August by certificated organisation for milk recording, where also milk analysis on SCC was processed. In total 1192 samples were analysed. Milk samples were divided into the five categories on the basis of SCC: SCC <0.2 × 106, between 0.2 - 0.4 × 106, 0.4 - 0.6 × 106, 0.6 - 1 × 106 and >106 cells.mL-1. Animals were divided into seven stages of lactation (first: 30-60 days of lactation and then each following 30 days a further group of lactation stage was considered). The Mixed model with Scheffe's analysis as a post hoc test was used. SCC on farm 3 was highest (5.80 ±0.04 log SCC mL-1) as compared with others farms (p <0.05). Significant effect of farms on milk yield demonstrates different level of farm management. Between farm 1 and 3 the differences in milk yield per milking is more than double. Frequency of distribution of milk samples was 53.36%, 13.93%, 6.29%, 7.21% and 19.21% for different categories respectively. In category >106 cells.mL-1 the highest percentage was on farm 4 (33.57%) and lowest on farm 2 (8.06%) though more representative percentage was on farm 5 (12.05%) due to larger number of animals. The negative effect of high SCC on milk yield was observed in all farms. Data also revealed that main part of individual milk samples had SCC below 0.6 × 106 cells.mL-1 which could be an important argument for future legislative establishment of limits for SCC in ewe's milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the intensive production system of Lacaune dairy sheep is the only profitable method for producers outside of the French Roquefort area, little is known about this type of systems. This study evaluated yield records of 3677 Lacaune sheep under intensive management between 2005 and 2010 in order to describe the lactation curve of this breed and to investigate the suitability of different mathematical functions for modeling this curve. A total of 7873 complete lactations during a 40-week lactation period corresponding to 201 281 pieces of weekly yield data were used. First, five mathematical functions were evaluated on the basis of the residual mean square, determination coefficient, Durbin Watson and Runs Test values. The two better models were found to be Pollott Additive and fractional polynomial (FP). In the second part of the study, the milk yield, peak of milk yield, day of peak and persistency of the lactations were calculated with Pollot Additive and FP models and compared with the real data. The results indicate that both models gave an extremely accurate fit to Lacaune lactation curves in order to predict milk yields (P = 0.871), with the FP model being the best choice to provide a good fit to an extensive amount of real data and applicable on farm without specific statistical software. On the other hand, the interpretation of the parameters of the Pollott Additive function helps to understand the biology of the udder of the Lacaune sheep. The characteristics of the Lacaune lactation curve and milk yield are affected by lactation number and length. The lactation curves obtained in the present study allow the early identification of ewes with low milk yield potential, which will help to optimize farm profitability.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of different crossbreeds (CB) of Lacaune (LC) and East Friesian (EF) breeds (LC 50 EF 50, LC 75 EF 25 and LC 87.5 EF 12.5) on daily milk yield (DMY) and basic milk composition (contents of total solids (TS), fat (F), protein (P), casein (C) and lactose (L) for the whole lactation. The evaluation of the interactions between CB and parity (PA) and between CB and litter size (LS) on above mentioned indicators was also an integral part of this study. The study was carried out on the organic farm in Valašská Bystřice. The factor of CB had a significant effect only on DMY and contents of P and C for the whole lactation whilst the higher proportion of LC breed in genotype, the higher DMY and the lower P and C contents. The CB x PA had a significant effect on all indicators except for the lactose content when in all CB the DMY increased with the increase of the lactation number. On the other hand, in all CB the contents of TS, F, P and C were relatively very variable depending on the parity. Lastly, as for the interaction between CB and LS, the ewes with twins produced significantly more milk compared to ewes with singles and these ewes had also significantly higher contents of P and C and not significantly higher contents of TS and F.

Genetic parameters and breeding values were estimated based on 11 708 daily milk yields from 2255 lactations (1351 sheep, 19 different flocks) between the years 2004 and 2010. The pedigree covered 2334 individuals, including both the recorded animals and their known ancestors. The fixed effects were estimated by the least-squares method, while the genetic parameters were estimated by the REML method. The data were tested by 49 models, but on the basis of the coefficient-of-determination value and the significance of the effects, only 10 models were used for REML analysis. The most suitable model was chosen on the basis of the breeding values distribution and the heritability of daily milk production, which was estimated at 0.28. The fixed effects of the flock parity number, the flock test day, and the linear and quadratic coefficients of flock's days-in-milk in the chosen model were all highly significant (P < 0.0001) for the test-day milk yield. The breeding values had a normal distribution and a standard deviation of 0.46 kg.

The objective was to compare the susceptibility of sheep breeds Lacaune, Bergamacia, Santa Ines and animals without defined breed (AWDB) kept confined to gastrointestinal helminths. The design used was a randomized block design being considered treatment the breeds. For research, the animals kept at pasture, were exposed to natural infection and kept from March to September 2008. A month before the start of the experiment, all animals were dewormed and confined. The anthelmintic used contained the active ingredient Moxidectin (0.2 mg/kg, Cydectin®, Fort Dodge, Brazil). Fecal examinations were performed twice a week and the animals with fecal egg count (FEC) over 4000 were dewormed. The mean variations of fecal egg count for the breed studied were: Lacaune 700-2600, Bergamacia 100-300, Santa Ines 61-200 and Natives 63-200. The average count of the sheep Lacaune FEC was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than the other breeds, while the FEC of animals Bergamacia, Santa Ines and Native were not statistically different (p > 0.05) among themselves. In coprologic tests, there was no difference between the percentage of helminths between the breeds, being identified the following genera: Haemonchus (70%), Trichostrongylus (20%), Cooperia (7%) and Oesophagostomum (3%). When analyzed the degree of susceptible breeds.O objetivo do estudo foi comparar a suscetibilidade de ovinos das raças Lacaune, Bergamácia, Santa Inês e animais sem padrão racial definido (SPRD) mantidos confinados a helmintos gastrintestinais. O delineamento utilizado foi blocos ao acaso, sendo considerado tratamento as raças. Para a pesquisa, animais mantidos a pasto, expostos a infecção natural, foram confinados de março a setembro de 2008. Um mês antes do inicio do experimento, todos os animais foram vermifugados e confinados. O anti-helmíntico utilizado continha o princípio ativo Moxidectin (0.2 mg/kg, Cydectin®, Fort Dodge, Brasil). Foram realizados quinzenalmente exames coproparasitológicos e os animais que apresentavam contagem de ovos nas fezes (OPG) superior a 4000 eram vermifugados. A variação média da contagem de ovos nas fezes para as raça estudadas foi: Lacaune 700-2600, Bergamácia 100-300, Santa Inês 61- 200 e SPRD 63-200. A contagem média de OPG das ovelhas Lacaune foi significativamente superior (p < 0,001) ao das demais raças, ao passo que a contagem de ovos nas fezes dos animais Bergamácia, Santa Inês e SPRD não diferiu estatisticamente (p > 0,05) entre si. Nos exames coprológicos, não foi observada diferença entre os valores percentuais de helmintos entre as raças, sendo identificados os seguintes gêneros: Haemonchus (70%), Trichostrongylus (20%), Cooperia (7%) e Oesophagostomum (3%). Quando analisado o grau de infecção dos animais Lacaune para o gênero Haemonchus, 28,33% apresentaram infecção leve, 46,67% moderada, 13,33% pesada e 11,67% fatal. Deste modo, conclui-se que animais da raça Lacaune foram mais suscetíveis a helmintoses gastrintestinais do que Bergamácia, Santa Inês e SPRD quando mantidos em condições de confinamento. Assim, embora o confinamento seja uma alternativa viável para minimizar os efeitos da verminose e aumentar a produtividade do rebanho, deve-se manter alerta a possíveis surtos de helmintoses quando se tratar de raças suscetíveis.

The objectives of the present study were the analysis of cell counts, the comparison between different methods for counting cells and the quantification of different types of cells observed in the milk of Lacaune sheep, using automatic somatic cell counts (SCC) and direct microscopic SCC. Milk smears were stained with methyl green-pyronin-Y and Rosenfeld stain. Mean of automatic cell counts was 0.145 x106 cells/mL of milk, and mean of direct microscopic counts using methyl green-pyronin-Y and Rosenfeld were respectively 0.157 and 0.193 x106 cells /mL of milk. Samples used in direct microscopic counts were evaluated according to the different types of cells and the following results were recorded: 0.094 and 0.14 x106 mononuclear cells /mL, 0.063 and 0.051 x106 polymorphonuclear cells /mL of milk using methyl green-pyronin-Y and Rosenfeld stain, respectively. It may be concluded that there were differences in the methods used for counting cells. The number of cells recorded was lower when methyl green-pyronin-Y and automatic counts were used, compared with direct microscopy using Rosenfeld stain.KEY WORDS: somatic cells and cytology, lacaune, milk, sheep. O presente estudo teve como objetivo a análise da celularidade, a comparação dos diferentes métodos de contagem celular e a quantificação dos diferentes tipos celulares presentes no leite de ovelha da raça Lacaune através da contagem de células somáticas (CCS) automática e da CCS microscópica. Coraram-se os esfregaços lácteos com os corantes verde de metil e pironina-Y e Rosenfeld. O valor mediano da contagem celular automática foi de 0,145 x106 células/mL de leite, e os valores das contagens microscópicas diretas utilizando verde de metil e pironina-Y e Rosenfeld foram respectivamente de 0,157 e 0,193 x106 células/mL de leite. Avaliaram-se as amostras destinadas às contagens microscópicas diretas de acordo com os diferentes tipos celulares, encontrando-se os valores de 0,094 e 0,14 x106 células mononucleares/mL, 0,063 e 0,051 x106 células polimorfonuclares/mL de leite na coloração de verde de metil e pironina-Y e Rosenfeld, respectivamente. Portanto, pode-se concluir que houve diferenças entre os métodos de contagem celular. Com o corante verde de metil e pironina-Y e a contagem automática, o número de células encontrado foi inferior, quando comparados com a microscopia direta utilizando o corante de Rosenfeld.PALAVRAS-CHAVES: Células somáticas e citologia, Lacaune, leite, ovelha.

Evaluation of milk yield, composition and quality of organic milk of crossbreeds of Lacaune (L), East Friesian (EF) and Improved Wallachian (IW), (n = 10, L 50 EF 43.75 IW 6.25) during lactation was carried out on organic farm in Valašská Bystřice in 2007. All sheep were on the third lactation and during study they were reared on permanent pasture. The stage of lactation (SL) had a highly significant effect on milk yield (MY) and contents of total solids (TS), fat (F), protein (P), casein (C), lactose (L) and urea (U). The SL had also a highly significant effect on pH and titrable acidity (TA), whereas on rennet clotting time (RCT) the SL had a significant effect. On the other hand the SL had not a significant effect on somatic cell counts (SCC) and rennet curd quality (RCQ). The highest contents of TS, F and C were found at the end of the lactation, whereas their lowest contents were found on the 120th day. Between the second and the last sampling the lactose content decreased. The content of U and RCT were the most variable indicators whithin the frame of our study. On the other hand SCCs were, during the whole lactation, very well-balanced and relatively low. Between pH and SCC was found positive correlation. TA gradually increased and RCT gradually prolonged with advanced lactation.

Test-day records of purebred Tsigai, Improved Valachian and Lacaune ewes were analysed with a general linear model in order to investigate the effects of flock-test day, lactation number, days in milk, litter size and month of lambing. In total, 121 576 (Tsigai), 247 902 (Improved Valachian) and 2 196 (Lacaune) test-day records gathered over the period 1995-2005 were included in the analyses. Average daily milk yields were 0.604 ± 0.279 kg (Tsigai), 0.595 ± 0.243 kg (Improved Valachian) and 1.053 ± 0.475 kg (Lacaune). The significant (P < 0.05) or highly significant (P < 0.01) effects of flock-test day, lactation number (except for Lacaune), days in milk, litter size (except for Lacaune) and month of lambing (either fixed effects or covariates) tested by Fisher's tests were shown. The model explained about 50% of daily milk yield variability, with coefficients of determination as follows: 0.479 for Improved Valachian; 0.487 for Tsigai; 0.537 for Lacaune. Differences in estimated least-squares means were tested using multiple-range Scheffe's tests. A lower daily milk yield was found for the first lactation, single litter and lactations starting in March in comparison with daily milk yield for the second and third lactations (except for Lacaune), multiple litter and lactations starting in January and February (except for Improved Valachian). Ali-Schaeffer regression adopted for sheep was used for the fitting of lactation curve according to breed.

Udder morphology traits were measured and subjectively assessed by the use of linear scores in 266 ewes of Tsigai (T), Improved Walachian (IW) and Lacaune (LC) dairy breeds. Animals were recorded repeatedly within and between lactations, therefore 772 sets of measurements and linear scores were collected in total. Udder measurements included: udder length, udder width, rear udder depth, cistern depth, teat length, teat angle, sum of cistern cross-section areas scanned by the ultrasound technique from the side and from the bottom in a water bath. Linear scores were assessed for: udder depth, cistern depth, teat placement, teat length, udder attachment, udder cleft, and udder shape from the aspect of machine milking. Analysis of variance was conducted by the mixed procedure of SAS statistical package. The model included effects of experimental day, parity, days in milk, random effect of animal and residual error. Subsequently, correlations between random animal effects for udder measurements and linear scores were computed for individual examined breeds separately. Subjectively assessed linear scores for udder depth, cistern depth, teat position and teat size showed high correlations with actual measurements of the respective traits on udder in all examined breeds (rp = 0.65-0.80). Linear scores for cistern depth and teat position were highly correlated (rp = 0.84; 0.77 and 0.90 for T; IW and LC ewes), suggesting that they are nearly identical traits. Linear score for udder shape was significantly correlated with the linear score for udder attachment in all examined breeds (rp = 0.79; 0.80 and 0.78 for T; IW and LC). In T and IW assessments of the udder shape were also highly correlated with linear score for udder height (rp = 0.84 resp. rp = 0.79) while in LC this correlation was close to zero. In LC assessment of the udder shape was more dependent on teat position (rp = -0.37) and cistern depth (rp = -0.30).

Objective of the current research was to evaluate the effects of crossbreeding the French Lacaune breed with Romanian indigenous Turcana sheep on milk production traits in crossbred ewes. Milk yield in Turcana ewes was on average 77.98±2.73 kg, with limits ranging between 64.67kg and 92.01kg. While in the F1 Lacaune x Turcana, the average milk production was of 109.04±4.70 kg, with limits ranging between 89.23kg and 129.76kg. The F1 Lacaune x Turcana ewes outperformed significantly (p<0.001) the Turcana breed. The fat percentage in milk was on average of 8.02±0.22% with limits ranging between 6.95% and 8.98% in the Turcana breed, and of 8.60±0.40%, ranging between 5.45% and 11.06% in the F1 Lacaune x Turcana ewes. Genotype had no significant influence (p>0.05) on the fat percentage from milk. Current results show that by using Lacaune rams for crossbreeding with the unimproved Turcana, the progeny will have significantly higher milk yields, and thus, the farm returns could be much improved in sheep enterprises that practice the semi-intensive pasture-based farming system. Thus, current results should be advertised to both farmers and the breeders associations, in order for the sheep farmers to take advantage of the breed complementarity found between the specialized Lacaune and the local Turcana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Often the only way to ensure profitability of Lacaune dairy sheep is intensive management, which requires appropriate dry-period treatment to ensure animal productivity and health. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of intramammary antibiotic dry therapy on the performance and health of Lacaune sheep under intensive management. We recorded data for 5981 complete lactation periods that followed a dry period. A total of 2402 lactation periods were preceded by a dry period involving intramammary administration of 300 mg of cephapirin benzathine (antibiotic group) and 3579 lactation periods were preceded by dry periods with no treatment (control group). The following on-farm yield data were collected for individual lactation periods: length of the subsequent lactation period; total milk yield per lactation period; daily milk yield and length of the subsequent dry period. Data on confounding factors that might affect productivity were also recorded, including the individual ewe, number of lactation periods and length of the previous dry period. Milk quality was assessed using data on somatic cell count (SCC) and content of protein and fat taken from the Spanish National Official Milk Yield Recording System. Antibiotic dry therapy significantly improved total yield per lactation period, which was 429±151·1 l in the antibiotic group and 412±165·5 l in the control group, as well as the daily milk yield, which was 1986±497·0 and 1851±543·2 ml/d, respectively (both P<0·0001). The initial dry period was significantly longer in the antibiotic group than in the control group, and dry period length correlated inversely with yield variables such us total yield per lactation period (r=−0·055; P<0·0001) and yield per day in milk (r=−0·039; P<0·0001). As a result, milk yield records systematically underestimated the positive effects of antibiotic dry therapy. Antibiotic dry therapy also significantly improved milk quality. Milk from the antibiotic group showed 50% lower SCC (573±1326 vs. 1022±2126 cells/ml; P<0·0001) and slightly higher content in fat (7·33±0·91 vs. 7·15±0·87%) and protein (5·63±0·44 vs. 5·44±0·4%). The results of this study suggest that cephalosporin dry therapy of Lacaune dairy sheep increases milk production and improves milk quality during subsequent lactation periods. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Many factors contribute to variations in the production and quality of milk of sheep. Knowledge of the composition of the milk of sheep and the influence of the production system contribute to a better utilization of industrial milk. The aim of this study was to determine the composition, production and daily somatic cell count of milk in a confined system. 31 Lacaune breed of sheep, and of these 13 ewes and 18 lambs at 10 and 70 days postpartum, kept under intensive system on a rural property in the inner city of Viamão, RS were followed. Individual samples were collected to determine the levels of fat, protein, lactose, total solids and somatic cell count. The composition of milk obtained demonstrated the suitability of this species for the synthesis of milk with satisfactory levels of solids and consequently with a good yield for production of derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercial milking of sheep is a new agricultural industry in the United States starting approximately 30 years ago. The industry is still small, but it is growing. The majority of the sheep milk is used in the production of specialty cheeses. The United States is the major importer of sheep milk cheeses with 50 to 60% of annual world exports coming to the United States during the past 20 years. Therefore, there is considerable growth potential for the industry in the United States. The only dairy sheep research flock in North America is located at the Spooner Agricultural Research Station of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The research program started in 1993 and has been multifaceted; dealing with several areas important to commercial dairy sheep farmers. The East Friesian and Lacaune dairy breeds were compared and introduced to the industry through the research program. Both dairy breeds produced significantly more milk than traditional meat-wool breeds found in the U.S., but the two breeds differed in their production traits. East Friesian-cross ewes produced more lambs and slightly more milk than Lacaune-cross ewes whereas Lacaune-cross ewes produced milk with a higher percentage of fat and protein than East Friesian-cross ewes. Lactation physiology studies have shown that ewes with active corpora lutea have increased milk yields, oxytocin release during milking is required to obtain normal fat percentages in the milk, large udder cisterns of dairy ewes can allow for increased milking intervals, and short daylengths during late pregnancy results in increased milk yield. In the nutrition area, legume-grass pastures and forages with a higher percentage of legume will result in increased milk production. Grazing ewes respond to additional supplementation with increased milk yield, but it is important to match the supplement to the quality of the grazing. Ewes on high quality legume-grass pastures that are high in rumen degradable protein respond with increased milk production to supplements high in energy and/or high in rumen undegraded protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existem poucos dados sobre a produção de sêmen da raça Lacaune, no sul do país. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi o de avaliar a produção e a qualidade do sêmen de carneiros desta raça, criados no estado do Rio Grande do Sul (RS). Foram utilizados 12 carneiros, de idades entre 1-4 anos, criados em condições intensivas. O sêmen foi colhido por vagina artificial e foram avaliadas as características quantitativas e qualitativas e a circunferência escrotal, do inverno de 2002 até a primavera de 2003. Com exceção da concentração espermática, foram observadas variações estacionais em todas as características estudadas. O volume variou de 1.1 ± 0.4 mL, no inverno de 2002, a 1.5 ± 0.4 mL no outono de 2003. O número total de espermatozóides por ejaculado variou de 4.0 ± 3.3x10(9) (inverno de 2002) a 5.7 ± 3.3x10(9) (verão de 2003). Observou-se variação estacional significativa (P < 0,05) na circunferência escrotal em 2002, bem como variação significativa entre as idades dos animais, no inverno do mesmo ano. Os valores médios da produção espermática observados no verão e o outono foram superiores aos obtidos no inverno e primavera. O verão e outono foram considerados as estações mais indicadas para a utilização de machos da raça Lacaune em programas reprodutivos, no RS. Mais estudos devem ser conduzidos, para a verificação de efeitos estacionais sobre o congelamento do sêmen.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo a análise da celularidade, a comparação dos diferentes métodos de contagem celular e a quantificação dos diferentes tipos celulares presentes no leite de ovelha da raça Lacaune através da contagem de células somáticas (CCS) automática e da CCS microscópica. Coraram-se os esfregaços lácteos com os corantes verde de metil e pironina-Y e Rosenfeld. O valor mediano da contagem celular automática foi de 0,145 x106 células/mL de leite, e os valores das contagens microscópicas diretas utilizando verde de metil e pironina-Y e Rosenfeld foram respectivamente de 0,157 e 0,193 x106 células/mL de leite. Avaliaram-se as amostras destinadas às contagens microscópicas diretas de acordo com os diferentes tipos celulares, encontrando-se os valores de 0,094 e 0,14 x106 células mononucleares/mL, 0,063 e 0,051 x106 células polimorfonuclares/mL de leite na coloração de verde de metil e pironina-Y e Rosenfeld, respectivamente. Portanto, pode-se concluir que houve diferenças entre os métodos de contagem celular. Com o corante verde de metil e pironina-Y e a contagem automática, o número de células encontrado foi inferior, quando comparados com a microscopia direta utilizando o corante de Rosenfeld. PALAVRAS-CHAVES: Células somáticas e citologia, Lacaune, leite, ovelha.

This study investigated factors affecting milk production and lactation curves from complete lactations of Lacaune dairy sheep. Animals were part of a single flock under intensive management and were milked twice daily starting at lambing. The results of the analyses of 7788 complete lactations showed an average total milk yield of 434±183 l from lactations 234±63 d long, with an average lambing interval of 302±65 d. A Pollott additive mathematical model was used to estimate complete lactation curves. Clustering analysis identified four lactation types among Lacaune dairy sheep differing mainly in productivity i.e. milk yield per lactation (MY) and length of lactation (DIM). The so-called SL type involved short, less productive lactations (n=2137; 27·4%; MY=222±75·5 l and DIM=182±52·9 d). The SN type involved short lactations of normal productivity (n=2039; 26·2%; MY=396±73·7 l and DIM=205±33·1 d). The LP type involved long and productive lactations (n=2169; 27·9%; MY=487±70·5 l and DIM=265±40·7 d), while the LVP type included long and extremely productive lactations (n=1443; 18·5%; MY=694±114·0 l and DIM=295±54·7 d). Sheep showing the best lactation curves were usually younger than other sheep, and they had higher yield during the previous lactation, a shorter previous dry period (55±50·4 for LP and 61±55·0 d for LVP types) and longer lambing intervals. In addition, they tended to be born in September and to lamb in March, October and December. Sheep were remarkably stable in their lactation curve behaviour: the curve type observed for the first lactation was highly likely to persist in subsequent lactations (P<0·0001). These results suggest that farmers can use the shape of the first lactation curve to guide their selection of ewes for breeding and retention on the farm, thereby improving flock productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the intensive production system of Lacaune dairy sheep is the only profitable method for producers outside of the French Roquefort area, little is known about this type of systems. This study evaluated yield records of 3677 Lacaune sheep under intensive management between 2005 and 2010 in order to describe the lactation curve of this breed and to investigate the suitability of different mathematical functions for modeling this curve. A total of 7873 complete lactations during a 40-week lactation period corresponding to 201 281 pieces of weekly yield data were used. First, five mathematical functions were evaluated on the basis of the residual mean square, determination coefficient, Durbin Watson and Runs Test values. The two better models were found to be Pollott Additive and fractional polynomial (FP). In the second part of the study, the milk yield, peak of milk yield, day of peak and persistency of the lactations were calculated with Pollot Additive and FP models and compared with the real data. The results indicate that both models gave an extremely accurate fit to Lacaune lactation curves in order to predict milk yields (P = 0.871), with the FP model being the best choice to provide a good fit to an extensive amount of real data and applicable on farm without specific statistical software. On the other hand, the interpretation of the parameters of the Pollott Additive function helps to understand the biology of the udder of the Lacaune sheep. The characteristics of the Lacaune lactation curve and milk yield are affected by lactation number and length. The lactation curves obtained in the present study allow the early identification of ewes with low milk yield potential, which will help to optimize farm profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]