Analysis of Growth Intensity and Carcass Characteristics of Wagyu‑Aberdeen Angus Crossbred Steers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate growth ability (weight, daily weight gains) and selected carcass characteristics during fattening period of Wagyu × Aberdeen Angus crossbred steers (F1). A total of 72 animals were evaluated over a period of 4 years. The observed animals were monitored from rearing (8 months) to slaughter (30 months). Statistical evaluation was performed by SAS 9.3 (GLM procedure); variables were corrected for effects of the year, season of birth and sire effect. Sire effect proved to be the most significant in our evaluation. Offsprings sired by Bull 1 had significantly (P < 0.05) better growth ability than offsprings of other two tested bulls. Slaughter analysis of tested steers showed, that mean value of dressing percentage was 55.61 %. Significantly highest dressing percentage was found for Bull 1 offsprings (56.72 %, P < 0.05). The average carcass weight of tested steers was 443.46 kg and the highest carcass weight was again achieved by offsprings of Bull 1 (486.39 kg; P < 0.05). Average value of beef marbling score was 5.21. Slaughter analyses of carcass cuts (cut‑out, round, chuck, rump, tenderloin, shank, flank) and tallow showed that average weight of these lean cuts was 127.32 kg and tallow content was 39.31 kg at average. The highest values of these parameters were observed in offspring of bulls Bull 1 (P < 0.05).

Keywords

• growth
• crossbreed
• carcass cuts
• marbling
• sire