19th Annual Student Research Conference
Science
Development of a Prediction Equation for Total Body Mass Across Three Sizes of Equids (Equus caballus)
Kathryn M. Smith* and Tammy R. Bragg
Dr. Charlie Apter and Dr. Dean DeCock, Faculty Mentors
Extending an ongoing allometric study, a prediction equation for total body mass of domestic horses was developed. Previously, nine body dimensions, including body mass, were determined for 46 draft horses, 88 miniature horses, and 43 stock-type horses. Sampled individuals included mares and intact and gelded males as the previous study found no significant gender differences. The prediction equation utilizes heartgirth and body length, both easily obtained in the field by untrained individuals. The horse torso was treated as a cylinder, with radius derived from heartgirth and body length representing cylinder height. Linear regression analysis of torso volume and total body mass yielded a strong linear relationship (r = .994, P < .001). An accurate prediction equation for total body mass which utilizes easily measured body dimensions would be useful since nutritional requirements and dosages of various medications are typically expressed on a per-unit-body mass basis.
Keywords: Body Mass, Horse, Equid, Allometry
Topic(s):Agricultural Science
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 52-5
Location: VH 1408
Time: 3:45