Internal parasite control is the largest health problem in global sheep production systems, resistance to anthelmintics increases with every use and new drugs are slow to be developed. Parasites are constantly evolving and we must adapt our management strategies to counter this. Recent exploration of genetic alternatives has shown great potential and measurable results. In a relatively short time SIG has managed to reduce worm egg output from adult ewes during the periparturient period by 50% using FEC measurements and BLUP analysis. This has translated into one less anthelmintic use in lambs over a season, potential for improvement through genetics is huge.
