(a) Give four reasons why farmers keep specimen E. (b) Mention two products that could be obtained from specimen E. (c) If specimen E was serviced on 12th M...

Specimen E is a rabbit.

(a) Four reasons why farmers keep the rabbit

• It provides meat that is rich in protein and low in fat.
• It is a source of income to the farmer.
• It is prolific, matures early and has a short gestation period, so it multiplies rapidly.
• It provides raw materials such as fur/pelt and also droppings used as manure. (It is also kept as a pet and for research.)

(b) Two products obtained from the rabbit

• Meat.
• Pelt/skin (fur). (Bone and manure are also obtained.)

(c) Expected kindling date

The gestation period of a rabbit is about 31 days (30 to 32 days). Counting 31 days from the date of conception, 12th May 2016:

From 12th May to 31st May is 19 days; the remaining 12 days fall in June (19 + 12 = 31). Therefore the expected kindling date is 12th June 2016 (allowing 30 to 32 days, between 11th and 13th June 2016).

(d) Two ways of controlling ear mange on the rabbit

• Apply a recommended acaricide/miticide or sulphur ointment (or medicated oil) into the affected ears.
• Maintain good sanitation of the hutch, isolate affected animals and treat with a veterinary drug such as ivermectin.

(e) Endoparasites and ectoparasites that could infest the rabbit

• Two endoparasites: coccidia (Eimeria) and tapeworm (also roundworm and liver fluke).
• Two ectoparasites: mange mites (ear mites) and fleas (also lice and ticks).