J. Anim Sci.
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J. Anim Sci. 1982. 54:1169-1174.
© 1982 American Society of Animal Science
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Carcass and Meat Characteristics of Flemish Giant and New Zealand White Purebred and Terminal-Cross Rabbits1

Steven Lukefahr2, W. D. Hohenboken2, P. R. Cheeke2, N. M. Patton3 and W. H. Kennick2

Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331

Abstract

Twenty Flemish Giant, 22 New Zealand White and 23 Flemish Giant x Florida White-New Zealand White, terminal-cross market rabbits were evaluated for carcass quantity and quality traits. Analyses of variance identified significant differences among breeds in all body measurements and carcass traits studied (P≤.05), except carcass loin width and percentage giblets. The effects of litter size at weaning and age at slaughter likewise were significant for several carcass traits. Overall, Flemish Giant-sired progeny had more favorable body composition than New Zealand White progeny (P≤.01). Comparison of terminal-crosses to purebred groups revealed that crossbred rabbits had advantages for body measurement and lean yield traits (P≤.05). However, terminal-crosses deposited slightly more fat and were less tender than purebreds (P≤.05). Residual correlations indicated a strong positive relationship between preslaughter weight and carcass weight and lean yield traits. Moderate to high positive correlations between body measurements and carcass weight traits also were observed. The multiple regression of cooked meat weight on body weight and body loin width at slaughter was calculated. The coefficient of determination corresponding to this linear model was .74. This study demonstrates the potential of the Flemish Giant as a terminal sire breed and the potential role of crossbred meat rabbits in the commercial sector of the rabbit industry.

Footnotes

1 Technical Paper No. 5929, Oregon Agr. Exp. Sta.

2 Dept. of Anim. Sci.

3 Lab. Anim. Res.






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Copyright © 1982 by the American Society of Animal Science.