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Heterosis and Management Effects in Postweaning Growth of Angus, Hereford and Reciprocal Cross Cattle^{1, 2,}

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Clay Center, Nebraska 68933

Abstract

Heterosis for postweaning growth and weight was estimated in crosses of the Angus and Hereford breeds. Two data sets were analyzed. Immediately after weaning, 1,095 calves recorded in data set I were placed on feed, and 210 in data set II were assigned randomly to either immediate feeding or deferred management.

Differences between effects of the Angus and Hereford breeds on postweaning performance were not statistically significant. Steers outgained heifers by 10%. Steers exhibited a greater advantage over heifers under deferred management (wintered, grazed and then fed) than when placed immediately on feed.

Crossbreds exceeded straightbreds by 5 to 6% for postweaning gain and weight; heterosis effects were similar for steers and heifers. The breed of sire by breed of dam by management interaction in data set II approached significance (P<.10) for ADG from weaning to slaughter. Heterosis estimates for this trait were 90 g (9.6%) in the group placed on feed immediately after weaning and 30 g (3.7%) in the deferred cattle.

¹ The cooperation of the Nebraska Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, is acknowledged.

² Semen used to produce AI calves was provided by the American Angus Association and the American Polled Hereford Association.

³ Present address: Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843.

⁴ U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, A.R.S., U.S.D.A.