Systems-of-Breeding-Goat

Cattle Breeding Systems Notes

Straightbreeding

  • Definition: Mating of animals within the same breed, with registration papers from a breed organization.

  • Purebreeding:

    • Involves mating of two registered purebreds.

    • Purebreds have extensive pedigrees traceable to one breed.

    • Marketed to other breeders for genetics or to crossbreeders for heterosis.

    • Typically commands a premium for offspring due to superior genetics.

  • Inbreeding:

    • Mating of closely related animals, could increase superior traits.

    • Example: Mating a high milk-producing cow with a related bull known for milk production genetics.

    • Types of Inbreeding:

      • Linebreeding: Mating of distantly related animals (e.g., cousins).

      • Closebreeding: Mating of closely related animals (e.g., full siblings), highest risk of inferior genetics or deformities.

Outcrossing

  • Definition: Mating animals from different families within the same breed, not related.

  • Purpose: Introduce new genetics while staying within the breed.

Grading Up

  • Definition: Mating a purebred male to a grade female (non-registered high-caliber genetic animal).

  • Purpose: Raise superior animals without purebred investment.

Crossbreeding

  • Definition: Mating animals from different breeds; offspring are hybrids and not registered.

  • Advantages:

    • Faster growth, quicker maturation, enhanced traits from each breed.

    • Heterosis: Performance advantage in hybrids over average parental performance.

Crossbreeding Systems for Beef Cattle

  • Undertaken to:

    • Utilize attributes of multiple breeds.

    • Produce progeny suited to target markets while maintaining adaptation.

    • Improve productivity in slow-evolving traits (e.g., environmental adaptation, fertility).

    • Gain from heterosis.

Establishing a Crossbreeding Program

  1. Define current herd situation (markets, breeds, nutrition, environment).

  2. Set achievable management and nutritional levels.

  3. Identify target markets and breeding objectives.

  4. Decide on the best-performing breed types.

  5. Develop a long-term breeding plan (may take up to 10 years).

  6. Stick to the established plan.

Crossbreeding Systems Overview

  • Two Breed Cross: Produces F1 progeny, best for selling at slaughter or to breeders.

    • Example: Bos indicus females mated with a different breed bull for heterosis.

  • Backcross:

    • All male calves from F1 sold; F1 females mated to one parental breed for slaughter.

    • Maximizes heterosis for maternal traits.

  • Three Breed Cross:

    • Incorporates three distinct breeds; all F1 progeny sold.

    • Anticipates both maternal and individual heterosis.

  • Rotational Cross:

    • Mates males from multiple breeds with crossbred females over time.

    • Each breed contributes strengths; might result in inconsistent market meeting based on variation.

  • Composite Breed:

    • Developed from multiple breeds; advantages include same management as straight breeding post-crosses.

    • Changes can be made if market demands shift.

Key Considerations

  • Inbreeding isn't significant in large herds (>200-300); can be problematic in small herds.

  • Loss of heterosis occurs if a herd relies on one bull for generations.

  • Saanen, 3/8 Anglo-Nubian