Pre and Post-Weaning Performance Characteristics of Brahman, Boran and Tuli Crosses in Beef Cattle Evaluation Programs

Abstract

Preliminary results are presented for birth weights weaning weights calf survival to
weaning and post weaning gain both off pasture and under feedlot conditions in the Germ Plasm Evaluation Program at the University of Queensland, Gatton College. Progeny of Brahman sires were heavier at birth and at weaning than those of Boran, Tuli and Hereford sires (P<0.01). The greater birth weights resulted in a higher incidence- of dystocia in cows giving birth to Brahman sired calves. Total calf losses to weaning for Boran sired calves of 3.7% were significantly less -than in calves sired rby Brahman, Tuli and Hereford sires (P<0.05). Castratc male progeny of Brahman , Boran and Tuli sires were grown on a high energy feedlot diet from 10 months of age for 83 days. Brahman sired calves showed significantly higher growth rates (P<0.05) than other animals, while the carcases of Boran sired steers had significantly greater fat depth at the 12th rib and P8 sites (P<0.01). Female progeny of Brahman, Boran and Tuli sires when grown on poor quality native
tropical pastures resulted in greater weight gains for Brahman progeny than for Tuli progeny which was higher than for progeny of Boran sires (P<0.05).