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Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://purl.umn.edu/120913

Title: Benefits of net feed intake in a large commercial feedlot
Authors: Herd, Robert M.
Arthur, Paul F.
Dibley, K.
Mula, D.
Snelgar, T.
Thompson, J.
Authors (Email): Herd, Robert (Robert.Herd@industry.nsw.gov.au)
Arthur, P.
Keywords: net feed intake
steers
feedlot
efficiency
Issue Date: 2011-10
Abstract: This experiment investigated the benefits of feeding steers bred from parents known to be of high genetic merit for feed efficiency (HE; midparent net feed intake-estimated breeding value (NFI-EBV) ≤-0.3kg/day), medium efficiency (ME: midparent NFI-EBV >-0.3 to 0.14 kg/day), or low efficiency (LE; midparent NFI-EBV ≥0.16kg/day). The steers were evaluated over a 251-day feeding period in a large commercial feedlot. Genetic superiority in NFI had a favourable impact on the commercial performance of Angus steers by reducing feed consumed with no adverse effect on final turnoff weight. Each HE steer consumed on average 2.60t of feed compared to 2.87t by the ME and LE steers, with no compromise in weight gain. The HE steers gained less subcutaneous ribfat during the feedlot period but marbling scores were not influenced by NFI, and dressing percentage was higher in the HE steers. The feed efficiency benefit was sustained for 251 days and showed that genetic improvement of feed efficiency will reduce feed costs in a large commercial feedlot.
URI: http://purl.umn.edu/120913
Identifiers: 1449-5937
Institution/Association: AFBM Journal>Volume 08, Number 1, 2011
Total Pages: 3
From Page: 73
To Page: 75
Collections:Volume 08, Number 1, 2011

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