Animal Science, Department of
Date of this Version
2017
Citation
2017 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. University of Nebraska Extension MP104. Lincoln, NE.
Abstract
Two economic selection indices were developed for Beefmaster cattle, one for a terminal objective and one for a maternal objective. The terminal index was developed assuming bulls would be mated to mature cows with all resulting progeny harvested. The maternal index was developed assuming bulls would be mated to a combination of heifers and mature cows, with resulting progeny retained as replacements or sold at weaning. Relative economic values for the terminal objective traits hot carcass weight, marbling score, ribeye area, 12th- rib fat and feed intake were 91.29, 17.01, 8.38,- 7.07 and- 29.66, respectively. Relative economic values for the maternal objective traits calving difficultly direct, calving difficulty maternal, weaning weight direct, weaning weight maternal, mature weight and heifer pregnancy were- 2.11,- 1.53, 18.49, 11.28,- 33.46 and 1.19, respectively. The application of economic selection indices facilitates genetic improvement of beef cattle by aiding producers with their sire selection decisions.
Included in
Large or Food Animal and Equine Medicine Commons, Meat Science Commons, Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health Commons
Comments
© 2016 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.