Characteristics of Diverse Breeds in Cycle IV of the Cattle Germ Plasm Evaluation Program at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center

Authors

Larry V. Cundiff, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Keith Gregory
R. M. Koch, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
John D. Crouse
Michael E. Dikeman

Date of this Version

December 1991

Comments

Published for Proceedings, The Range Beef Cow Symposium XII December 3, 4 & 5, 1991, Fort Collins, Colorado.

Abstract

Breed differences in performance characteristics are an important genetic resource for improving efficiency of beef production. Diverse breeds are required to exploit heterosis and complementarity through crossbreeding and new composite breeds and to match genetic potential with diverse markets, feed resources and climates. This report presents preliminary results from an ongoing study at the Roman L. Hruska U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (MARC) to characterize breeds of cattle representing diverse biological types for traits that influence quantity and value of production.