A theory of beef production

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A theory of beef production is presented as a logical basis for discussion. It offers data to support its validity through successful application to commercial beef breeding herds. The five time-related factors which have the greatest effect on herd performance and profitability are considered to be a) the number of heifers in oestrus on the first day of mating which is related to nutrition, body weight, management and previous herd performance; b) the length of the interval from calving to first heat and conception which is related to the time of calving and mating, nutrition and management; c) the gestation length, e.g. Angus 273–279 (6) Carier, A. H. , Muller, J. P. and Baker, D. L. 1975. “Exotic Breeds for Beef Herds. Preliminary Results”. In Proceedings Ruakura Farmers Conference [Google Scholar] and Charolais 284–96 (1) Edwards, J. , Joss, T. D. , Hodges, J. , Leyburn, J. , O'Connor, K. L. , MacDonald, D. , Smith, G. F. and Wood, P. 1966. The Charolais Report, England: (Milk Marketing Board). Breeding and Production Organisation. [Google Scholar] (2) Hanly, G. J. and Mossman, D. H. 1976. A study of commercial breed production on typical hill country. N.Z. vet. J., 25: 3–7. [Google Scholar] (7) Laster, D. B. , Climp, A. H. and Gregory, K. E. 1972. Age and weight at puberty and conception in different breeds and breed crosses of beef heifers. J. Anim. Sci., 34: 1031–1034. [Google Scholar] ; d) the percentage calving in the first 21 days and e) the repeatability of herd performance within limited mating systems over a 3–5 year period. This theory involves the reduction in losses, direct increases in production and the more effective utilization of available assets. Effective production systems ensure all three factors occur at the same time.