EQUIPAMENTOS, INSTALAÇÕES E PROTOCOLOS DE MENSURAÇÃO DE CONSUMO DE MATERIA SECA EM BOVINOS

Abstract

Data of dry matter intake (DMI) individually measured in animals are critical to the feed efficiency (FE) indexes. This information guide the decisions made in breeding programs. Here, the objective was describes the technologies and protocols available to measure the DMI in cattle and the use of these information on genetic evaluations. The electronic identification by radio frequency when coupled with weighing bunks (plus storage of data) can be used for monitoring the DMI throughout the day. When performed at individual pens, the cattle feedlot may change the behavior, performance and, consequently, the FE. Thus, the relevance of data at these housing types can be questioned. Calan-gate is an alternative system for collective pens, however, dominant animals can get access to food of subordinates. In the GrowSafe System it is possible obtained data of DMI plus the time (duration) and frequency (bunk attendance). Studies indicate that changes in DMI are due to interactions and behavior of animals in collective pens. In the context of genetic evaluation, although individual pens (IP) are useful for measuring DMI, this condition is not representative. Data from IP can negatively impact on estimates of heritability for DMI and FE. Several studies have shown that there is moderate to strong genetic correlation between the DMI data and FE indexes, showing considerable variation exists among animals. Thus, genetic selection using these features greatly increase profitability in the beef cattle production system. Additionally, the accuracy and precision in the measurement of DMI are critical in this process.

Keywords

• beef cattle
• feed efficiency
• genetic evaluation
• intake
• technologies.