Genetic coding and strategies for growth and development. Genetic size scaling. Natural selection and fitness. Resource allocation. Side effects of selection. Physiological consequences of selection. Selection and side effects on product quality. Selection for feeding efficiency. Selection and animal behaviour. Selection and fertility. Maternal effects. Comparing animal races and species from different perspectives.

Students will be able to describe domestic animals as a biological system with development strategies developed through evolution and adaptation to the environment. Students will learn examples where domestic animal breeding has resulted in the partial disruption of this biological system. Students will be able to analyse these examples and reflect on how different domestic animal breeds and species can be compared. The following concepts will be explained fitness, resource allocation, maternal effects, development strategies etc. The most important traits in domestic breeding will be explained, in addition to experiments examining the consequences of selection. The student should also be able to consider different ways of comparing domestic animals, and exhibit a balanced view of ethical and biological aspects of breeding through discussions.

Lectures with discussions. Independent studies.

Personal teacher support will be provided if desired.

Lecture notes and scientific articles. Revised yearly.

HFA200 or the equivalent.

HFA200.

Presentation of report

Oral examination.

150 hours.

Special requirements in Science

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13 lectures with some exercises lasting 2 hours. Semester presentations.

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An examiner assesses the oral examination. Individual examination result.