1 Department of Animal Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
2 Directorate: Animal Sciences, Western Cape Department of Agriculture, Private Bag X1, Elsenburg 7607, South Africa
The projected global population of 9.6 billion people by the year 2050 poses significant challenges in meeting the increasing demand for high-quality protein, sustainability, and improved production systems. In South Africa, livestock production plays a pivotal role in the agricultural sector, contributing approximately 42% of the overall agricultural output value during the 2020/2021 period. However, nearly 70% of the country’s agricultural land is unsuitable for crop cultivation, making livestock farming, particularly sheep farming, a sustainable practice, especially in arid regions. The sheep industry in South Africa holds significant economic importance, supporting both small-scale and commercial farming.
Embryonic losses remain a…
