Texas FFA Livestock Judging PracticeTest

Helminths are of major economic importance to the livestock industry in regard to the management of?

1. Internal Parasites

2. External Parasites

3. Nutrition

4. Breeding

The correct answer is: Internal Parasites

Helminths are parasitic worms that primarily affect the internal systems of animals, causing a range of health issues. These internal parasites are known to lead to significant economic losses in the livestock industry due to their impact on animal health, growth rates, and overall productivity. Infected livestock may experience weight loss, decreased feed efficiency, and increased susceptibility to other diseases. Managing helminth infestations is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of livestock, which is why they are considered a major concern within livestock management practices. In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of livestock management. External parasites involve organisms that affect the outer surfaces of animals, while nutrition and breeding pertain to genetic and dietary factors that influence livestock performance but do not specifically address the issue of internal parasitic infestations like helminths. Thus, internal parasites represent the primary concern related to helminths in this context.