Introduction
This unit provides an overview of the major Tasmanian animal production systems and how they fit within the broader Australian and worldwide contexts. Students use systems thinking to explore the variety of strategies that growers use meet their production targets and explore the impact of grower management decisions along the value chain. These include decisions around production intensification, husbandry, genetic tools, feed base and niche market opportunities. Students learn about key biological processes that enable animals to grow and reproduce and explore how these processes impact product quantity and quality. Excursions to commercial animal production enterprises enable students to see the real-life complexities of these growing systems and to interact with well-established Tasmanian producers. Students apply their systems-based thinking by comparing the visited enterprises and designing a stock management plan. Understanding how the many system elements can impact production and preparing management plans prepares students for undertaking further animal studies (including production animal research) or working in many industry roles including as growers, consultants, extension officers and processors.
Summary
| Unit name | Animal Production Systems |
| Unit code | KLA120 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture |
| Discipline | Agriculture and Food Systems |
| Coordinator | Doctor Sarah Andrewartha |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Introductory |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Compare the key characteristics and drivers of efficient, effective and profitable animal production systems.
- Describe key biological principles that impact profitable animal production
- Describe key attributes of Australian and Tasmanian animal production systems
- Design a plan to manage production animals in an Australian production system
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Lecture, 2 x 50min lectures weekly; Practical, 1 x 3hr practical or 1 x 2hr tutorial or 1 x 4hr field trip weekly |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Systems test (10%)|Nutrient capture and use test (20%)|Animal management report and plan (30%)|Examination (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.