THE EFFECT OF APPLIED CROSSBREEDING ON INCREASING OF MILK PRODUCTION IN SHEEP

Abstract

The aim of the research was to identify new methods to increase milk production in
sheep. An evaluation of milk production at Ţigaie local breed, in comparison with
half-breed females from crossbreeding of local breed sheep with Awassi rams (Aw
x Ti) and with Lacaune (La x Ti) was conducted. Estimation of milk production
was done according to given by International Committee for Animal Recording
(AT method) and statistical analysis was performed using the Restricted Maximum
Likelihood method. Mean milk production in Aw x Tiewes was 29, 28% higher
than in local breed Ţigaie, and 32. 20% higher than in La x Ti ewes. Differences of
milk yield found in three groups of animals were very significant (p<0. 001). Based
on obtained results it could be concluded that crossbreeding of Ţigaie with Awassi
breed rams had a better effect on increasing of milk production than crossbreeding
with Lacaune breed rams.