Prediction of carcass composition in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus L.) by use of selected indicator bones and muscles

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Abstract
The applicability of using individual bones and muscles as "indicator" tissues for the estimation of body composition in reindeer of various age groups from newborn to maturity was studied. In lean reindeer of both sexes, weights of selected muscles and bones were highly correlated with carcass weight. Total muscle weight was predicted accurately from the weight of each muscle, as was total bone weight from the weight of each indicator bone. Crude chemical composition of carcass was reflected accurately from analyses of indicator muscles. Bone marrow weights and fat contents, on the other hand, were not reliable indicators of body condition in lean reindeer. The use of specific muscles and bones represents an easy and reliable method for estimating body weight and crude chemical composition in reindeer, and opens the possibility through the biopsy sampling of muscle, of continuous monitoring of body condition in free-ranging animals.