ASC461 Animal Reproduction (8)

Reproduction is central to the efficiency of livestock production industries and the breeding and management of companion animals and wildlife. Successful reproduction is dependent on managers and carers having a sound knowledge of reproductive principles. This subject is designed to develop the basic understanding of the reproductive anatomy, physiology, endocrinology and behaviour in selected farm, companion animals and wildlife species. Students will have the opportunity to examine strategies to control reproduction and gain hands on experience in reproductive evaluation and fertility management of livestock.

This subject is clearly differentiated from the paired subject, ASC261, in that the learning objectives and assessment clearly reflect the higher level offering appropriate to Master level learning.

Availability

* Offering has a residential school. Please view following information for further details.

Session 1 (30)
On Campus
Wagga Wagga Campus
Online *
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: ASC461. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

Master of Animal Science (articulated set) students only

Incompatible Subjects

ASC261

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • Be able to describe reproductive anatomy and related function in major farm and companion animal species;
  • Be able to explain in detail the relationship between the endocrine systems that regulate the physiological and reproductive processes and the behavioural changes that occur throughout the oestrous cycle;
  • Be able to discuss the processes of gametogenesis, fertilisation, maternal recognition of pregnancy, foetal development, placentation, parturition, puerperium and lactation;
  • Be able to apply the reproductive principles to control reproductive potential in animals;
  • Be able to evaluate the reproductive potential and evaluate factors that limit reproduction in males and females and develop management strategies to improve fertility;
  • Be able to discuss and explain in detail artificial breeding techniques for domestic animals and explain the benefits of using such techniques;
  • Be able to describe using specific examples different methods of contraception with a detailed focus on immunocontraception through a literature review, demonstrating a high level of scientific writing and critical thinking.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Anatomy of reproduction in the male and female
  • Gametogenesis in the male and female
  • Endocrine control of reproduction in the male and female
  • The events of the oestrous cycle, endocrine, physiological and behavioural
  • The process of gamete transport and fertilisation
  • Factors affecting puberty, anoestrus and seasonality
  • Maternal recognition of pregnancy, placentation and foetal development
  • Paturition, lactation and the puerperium
  • The assessment of reproductive potential
  • The use of artificial breeding technologies to improve reproductive potential
  • Methods to decrease reproductive potential, contraception, in domestic, wild and pest species
  • Factors limiting reproductive potential and their management
  • Reproductive biology and management of selected domestic and wild species.

Residential School

This subject contains a 3 day Compulsory Residential School.

The Residential School provides opportunities for a hands on approach for the theory taught.

Special Resources

This subject has a 3 day residential school

Contact

For further information about courses and subjects outlined in the CSU handbook please contact:

Current students

Future students

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2019. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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