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Unit of study_
AVBS3010: Livestock Production Systems
Livestock production systems are changing rapidly as a result of pressures to increase productivity, sustainability and profitability. These changes are further augmented by the rapid growth in new knowledge and emergence of new technologies, and changes in the diet of world populations. In this unit you will be exposed to contemporary livestock production systems through a whole-system approach integrating animals, pastures, environment, management and economics. The unit starts with a section describing the holistic approach to livestock production systems, then examines each component of the production system, and how these interact and affect each other. You will integrate concepts from animal biology and ecology, genetics, nutrition, reproduction, health and welfare, agronomy and economics. You will analyse farming systems and develop solutions to optimise production, sustainability and social goals. You will learn the use of simulation models and decision support systems, new technologies and holistic farm business analysis and planning. Computer-based and field classes will allow you to gain direct, practical experience in key areas required to work with the livestock industries in leading roles as consultants, advisors, managers or scientists in sustainable livestock enterprises
| Code | AVBS3010 |
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| Academic unit | Life and Environmental Sciences Academic Operations |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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12 credit points from (AVBS2XXX or ANSC3101 or BIOL2XXX or FOOD2000 or GEGE2X01 or GENE2001 or GENE2002 or ITLS2000) |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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AGRO4005 |
| Assumed knowledge:
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Familiarity with data analysis and animal handling |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. investigate concepts from junior, specialised units relevant for livestock farming systems including soils, plants, and animals (e.g. nutrition, reproduction, genetics, animal body functions)
- LO2. evaluate the impact of animal nutrition, health and welfare, genetics and management on the farming system
- LO3. describe livestock farming systems, their components and the way these interact with each other to affect key outcomes
- LO4. investigate and identify factors affecting productivity (e.g. productivity leakages), profitability, sustainability and animal welfare
- LO5. develop management strategies to optimise the livestock production systems with ethical, efficient and sustainable practices
- LO6. formulate and develop solutions to improve farm production systems with management plans that integrate cross-disciplinary expertise
- LO7. develop communication skills that are articulate, evidence-base and appropriate for stakeholders of the livestock industries
- LO8. collaborate in a multidisciplinary team to address livestock production challenges and communicate outcomes effectively to the target audience
Unit outlines
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