Statistical modelling of grazing preference of sheep when presented with arange of plant types

A statistical model of the grazing preference of sheep is presented for the evaluation of spaced plants in small plots for plant breeding purposes. Pl ants are located randomly to reduce the effect of external factors on diet selection, and to differentiate between discriminator?; and random grazing. Consistency of discrimination among gratings at-id sites (Massey Universit y, New Zealand and INIA La Estanzuela, Uruguay) was tested. The statistical design and subsequent analyses considered all sources of variation to mini mize error. and to separate genetic effects from environment effects. Clona l replicates were used to enhance error-control. and hence the precision of heritability estimates. as most characters are inherited quantitatively, P ost-grazing leafiness is considered the best character to select and breed for animal preference in a red clover germplasm.