Department of Animal Science
Date of this Version
1986
Abstract
Crossbreeding results between tropical breeds and European beef breeds as well as within breed (mainly Zebu) genetic variability for some economically important traits is reviewed. Heterosis of between 9% to 11% has been reported for preweaning growth rate, 2% to 11% for postweaning and carcass traits as well as up to 15% for reproduction related traits in crosses involving Bos indicus and Bos taurus cattle. Maximum heterosis was observed in crosses involving Zebu and Criollo cattle, both well adapted to the tropics. Within breed genetic parameter estimates under tropical conditions are still scanty. Based on the production environment and after a review of the literature possible research opportunities and challenged in animal breeding and genetics related to the tropics are discussed.
Comments
Published in 3rd World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, edited by Gordon E. Dickerson and Rodger K. Johnson, 4 vols. (Lincoln: University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, 1986). Copyright © 1986 Board of Regents University of Nebraska.