Selection study to improve reproduction performance and carcass quality of Barbados blackbelly sheep : final report

Selection of animals was based largely on growth rate and carcass quality evaluations. Due to wide variations in weaning weight, height, length, and carcass quality/quantity of the Blackbelly sheep, continuation of selections for profligacy, weaning weight, and carcass quality will be necessary to achieve the goal of establishing a sound base on which to develop breeding programs for the Blackbelly sheep. Carcass quality was excellent overall and the 140 lb carcasses were not excessively fat according to U.S. Department of Agriculture standards. Dressing percentages ranged from 45.7 to 59.3, with an average of 52%. Quality grade ranged from average good (8) to prime minus (13). Yield grade ranged from 1.8 to 3.4. (Author abstract, from PN-ABK-546)