Comparative growth and carcase characteristics of Shorthorn, Brahman × British, Friesian and Sahiwal X Friesian steers on the Atherton Tableland, north Queensland

Abstract

Liveweight gains of Shorthorn, Brahman x British cross and Friesian steers grazing improved grass-legume pasture were studied on the Atherton Tableland, north Queensland between 1970 and 1975. Representative animals were slaughtered at mean liveweights of approximately 400, 500 and 600 kg and carcase characteristics examined. Friesian steers gained faster than the Shorthorns and Brahman crosses but produced lighter carcases at any liveweight because of lower dressing percentages. Friesian carcases had a higher bone percentage than the other two genotypes, and carried less subcutaneous fat. Yields of saleable meat were comparable in all three genotypes. In a subsequent study, weight gains in Friesian and Sahiwal x Friesian steers were similar. The Sahiwal x Friesian steers had a higher dressing percentage, and produced heavier carcasses with greater subcutaneous fat cover than Friesian. Further studies on this genotype for beef production are warranted.