(i) Animals affected: Gumboro disease primarily affects young chickens, typically between 3 to 6 weeks of age.

Question

(i) Animals affected: Gumboro disease primarily affects young chickens, typically between 3 to 6 weeks of age.

Asked on March 29, 2026Biology

This biology question covers important biological concepts and processes. The step-by-step explanation below helps you understand the underlying mechanisms and reasoning.

Accepted Answer · 2026-03-29T08:44:10.233Z

a) (i) Animals affected: Gumboro disease primarily affects young chickens, typically between 3 to 6 weeks of age. (ii) Causal organism: The disease is caused by the Infectious Bursal Disease Virus (IBDV), which is an Avibirnavirus. (iii) Incubation: The incubation period for Gumboro disease is relatively short, usually 2 to 3 days. (iv) Symptoms of attack: Symptoms include depression, ruffled feathers, watery diarrhea, dehydration, vent pecking, prostration, and a sudden increase in mortality. (v) Control: Control measures involve vaccination (live and inactivated vaccines), strict biosecurity protocols, proper hygiene, and implementing all-in/all-out management systems. b) Five characteristics of Romney Marsh dual purpose sheep: • They are a dual-purpose breed, valued for both their meat and wool production. • They are known for their hardiness and adaptability, thriving in various climates, particularly damp conditions. • They produce a heavy fleece of good quality, with a long staple and good crimp, suitable for various textile uses. • They are characterized by good meat production, having a well-muscled body and producing a good carcass. • They are generally polled (naturally hornless).

Accepted Answer · 2026-03-29T08:44:10.233Z

a) (i) Animals affected: Gumboro disease primarily affects young chickens, typically between 3 to 6 weeks of age. (ii) Causal organism: The disease is caused by the Infectious Bursal Disease Virus (IBDV), which is an Avibirnavirus. (iii) Incubation: The incubation period for Gumboro disease is relatively short, usually 2 to 3 days. (iv) Symptoms of attack: Symptoms include depression, ruffled feathers, watery diarrhea, dehydration, vent pecking, prostration, and a sudden increase in mortality. (v) Control: Control measures involve vaccination (live and inactivated vaccines), strict biosecurity protocols, proper hygiene, and implementing all-in/all-out management systems. b) Five characteristics of Romney Marsh dual purpose sheep: • They are a dual-purpose breed, valued for both their meat and wool production. • They are known for their hardiness and adaptability, thriving in various climates, particularly damp conditions. • They produce a heavy fleece of good quality, with a long staple and good crimp, suitable for various textile uses. • They are characterized by good meat production, having a well-muscled body and producing a good carcass. • They are generally polled (naturally hornless).