Development of body components in Kenana cattle. 1. Development of carcass and non-carcass components of the body

Abstract

SummaryThirty-two weaned Kenana bull calves were adequately fed to maximize growth and serially slaughtered at predetermined live weights of approximately 100, 200, 300 and 400 kg. Eight animals were slaughtered at each slaughter point and slaughter data collected. Dressing-out percentage increased with the increase in slaughter weight but the increase was more marked between the first and the second slaughter points than between subsequent slaughter points. Kenana cattle compare favourably with Hereford, Hereford × Friesian, Friesian and Shorthorn × Ayrshire steers in dressing-out percentage; and are, apparently, superior to Jersey steers in that trait.The model, y = axb, in the logarithmic form, was used to describe patterns of proportional weight increase of body components throughout the experimental period and in three arbitrary phases. The patterns of development which were demonstrated by some body components throughout the test period were not necessarily re-exhibited, in all stages, when development was considered in phases. These body components changed their patterns of proportional increase in weight as development proceeded.