J. Anim Sci.
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J. Anim Sci. 1974. 38:256-263.
© 1974 American Society of Animal Science
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Prediction of Feeder Calf Performance and Subsequent Carcass Characteristics

John D. Crouse1, Michael E. Dikeman2, Dell M. Allen2 and Charles E. Murphey3

U. S. Department of Agriculture and Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506

Abstract

Visual appraisal of 14 feeder calf traits and average daily gain from birth to weaning on 449 feeder calves, representing a wide range in biological type, were analyzed as predictors of average daily gain and subsequent carcass qualitative and quantitative characteristics. Calves were placed in a feedlot postweaning and slaughtered in three groups after 215, 243 and 271 days on feed. U.S.D.A. quality and yield grades were determined on the carcasses and the right side of each carcass was made into semi-boneless, closely trimmed, retail cuts. Correlations and prediction equations were calculated over all subclasses and within subclasses based on breeds of sire, breeds of dam and slaughter groups. Intraclass correlations between appraisers' estimates of feeder calf traits are presented.

No combination of feeder calf traits produced a meaningful estimator of carcass quality grades. Within subclasses, average daily gain from birth to weaning was the most important predictor of carcass cutability. Higher carcass cutability was associated with lower feedlot rates of gain. In the heterogeneous breed type population, subjective estimates of trimness, finish, length and height were important in predicting carcass quantitative traits. Correlations among appraisers were high for most characteristics evaluated except for evaluations of length of rump.

Footnotes

1 U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, Nebraska 68933, A.R.S., U.S.D.A.

2 Department of Animal Science and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan.

3 Standardization Branch, Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S.D.A., Washington, D.C. 20250.






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Copyright © 1974 by the American Society of Animal Science.