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Breeds of Livestock

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A stout Medium Wool Merino sheep standing in the grass.This is the main representative of the Merino breed in Australia and is found in extremely high number throughout NSW, Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia.

 

Medium-Wool Merinos are primarily grown for wool production, although improved carcass quality gives this breed a dual purpose. Their wool is almost totally absorbed by the textile trade, in particular high quality apparel wool.

 

The strain is large framed and relatively plain bodied, producing a heavy fleece which is soft handling and of good color with a fiber diameter of 20-22 microns. Staple length is approximately 90 mm.

Two Medium Wool Merino sheep with long curled horns.

 

References

Handbook of Australian Livestock, Australian Meat & Livestock Corporation, 1989, 3rd Edition

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