Title: Use of feeder steer descriptors to predict feedlot and carcass performance.
Abstract: Feeder steer descriptor s at feedlot entr y were examine d for thei r abilit y to predic t determinant s of final value as assessed by feedlot and carcas s performance . Data analyse d were on 460 animal s from four group s of differin g breed , sex, managemen t histor y and end marke t weight . Variable s analysed were feedlot daily gain, final liveweight , carcas s weight , dressin g % , carcas s eye muscle are a (EMA), carcas s P8 fat depth , retai l beef yield % and marblin g score . Steer descriptor s were most useful for predictin g final weight and carcas s weight , and potentiall y useful in helpin g to predic t carcas s P8 fat dept h and beef yield % . Association s with feedlot and carcas s trait s often differe d between dat a sets, limitin g the usefulnes s of descriptors . Steer weight at entr y was notabl e for the constanc y of its associatio n with final weight (regressio n coefficient approximatel y 1.0) and carcas s weight over divers e dat a groups . The most useful steer descriptor s were considere d to be liveweight , age (in months) , fatnes s (a scan or score) , hip height , and muscle thicknes s (a score or scan).
Publication Year: 1999
Publication Date: 1999-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
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