Abstract
Genetic and phenotypic correlations among various traits in beef cattle were estimated using data from 195 steers and 190 heifers born over a 5-year period, the progeny of 36 bulls. No negative genetic correlations that would handicap selection are evident among the traits studied. The genetic correlations were all positive except those between grades and subsequent growth rates which appear to be independent genetically, and a negative correlation between rate of gain and TDN requirements per unit gain. This of course could be expressed as a positive correlation between rate and efficiency of gain. High positive correlations were found between gains in a particular period and grade at the end of the period. Slaughter and carcass grades have high correlation and the correlations between feeder grade at weaning and slaughter, carcass or yearling feeder grade are moderately high. Perhaps the most important genetic correlation found was that between preweaning growth rate and subsequent rate of gain in the feedlot or on pasture. This was estimated to be 0.69 for the steers and 0.51 for the heifers. Improvement in both traits should result from selection for either. Copyright © . .