Animals

Any viable tilapia grow-out system is dependent on adequate oxygen levels. As stocking rates and fish size increase, so too does demand for oxygen, and it is important to ensure adequate supply at all times.

Poor conformation places stress and pressure on the hock, causing tissue to break down over time. This leads to severe injury, says Kim Dyson.

Michael Duckitt says that farming Nguni cattle in the Swartland has decreased his farming risks.

Keeping chickens in and around a stable has its pros and cons, but with a little care and planning, fowls can help to keep pest numbers down, says Dr Mac.

Crossbreeding beef cattle is gaining ground, as SA farmers increasingly value high productivity and low production costs. Prof Michiel Scholtz, head of the Vaalharts Crossbreeding Programme, tells Wilma den Hartigh about the programme’s contribution to the utilisation of crossbreeds.

An increase in water temperature means a depletion in oxygen levels. How do tunnel-based fish farms cope with extreme heat and ensure that fish receive their required oxygen levels?

In addition to honey, bees produce propolis, a sticky, resinous substance that can be used to treat a number of equine problems.

Chief technician at the Agricultural Research Council’s Beef Cattle Improvement Scheme, Frans Jordaan, discusses the genetic-based guidelines for ensuring the best purchase at an auction.

Mechanical horse exercisers, from hot horse walkers to the latest programmable devices, offer many advantages over physically walking a horse or letting it loose in a paddock, says Dr Mac.

Ace pigeon flier Theo Mienie recently retired from the sport after more than six decades. He spoke to Thomas Smit about the highlights of his career and offered advice to fanciers.

Boer goat stud breeder Johan Boshoff uses production data as a valuable tool to breed a new generation of goats to take his herd, the breed, and the industry forward. He explains to Gerhard Uys why this is important and how he goes about it.

The South African aquaculture industry continues to experience difficulty with the import and farming of certain species. In neighbouring countries, by contrast, the industry is flourishing.

A horse that refuses to drink will not only lose condition, it could dehydrate, writes Kim Dyson.

Some dismiss red pigeons as "hawk feed", others have had great success racing them. Thomas Smit says colour is only skin deep.

Aloe Vera has many beneficial properties. Plant it around the stables, suggests Kim Dyson.

SA Stud Book’s top smallstock breeder for 2015, Clynton Collett from Venterstad, plans to increase the performance of his Meatmaster stud through better selection based on reproductive performance.

The legendary Wauldby Dohne Merino Stud from the Amabele area near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape was founded by Deemie Blaine in 1947. Mike Burgess visited Blaine’s grandson, Robbie, a finalist in the 2015 National Sheep Farmer of the Year competition, to find out how he continues to farm his stud in this challenging environment.

To show a horse at top level you need aptitude, dedication and hard work, explains Kim Dyson.

Top stud breeder Hennie Viljoen says farmers must use top genetics to increase productivity and profitability.

Despite controversy, using the Bemer to heal injured horses seems to be popular, says Dr Mac.