Evaluation of mating systems involving five breeds for integrated beef production systems: II. Feedlot segment.

Computer models were used to simulate the feedlot segment of an integrated beef production system. Five breeds, Angus (A), Charolais (C), Hereford (H), Limousin (L), and Simmental (S), in three mating systems, pure-breeding and two- and three-breed rotational crossbreeding, were evaluated for feedlot and carcass performance. Breed data were taken from the literature. Feeder calves (steers and non-replacement heifers) entered the feedlot at 205 d of age. After a 35-d adjustment period, calves were custom-fed to four slaughter end points: 440 d, 457 d, 288-kg carcass weight, or low Choice. Cattle were fed to requirements (megacalories of ME). Input costs included feed and nonfeed expenses (purchase prices, transportation, yardage, and medicinal fees). Carcass values were $2.65 and $2.54/kg of carcass weight for steer and heifers, respectively, between 272 to 318 kg. Over- or underweight carcasses were discounted $.60/kg. At the 440-d end point, Select grade steer and heifer carcasses were discounted an additional $.22 and $17/kg, respectively. Biological efficiency was measured as megacalories of ME/kg of gain, and economic efficiencies were measured as input costs per kilogram of carcass weight, input costs per kilogram of lean weight, and input costs per carcass value. Continental breed combinations (C and S) were most efficient at age- and weight-constant end points for megacalories of ME per kilogram of gain and for input costs per carcass value and most efficient at all end points for input costs per kilogram of carcass weight and input costs per kilogram of lean weight. British breed combinations (A) were most efficient at a fat-constant end point for megacalories of ME per kilogram of gain and input costs per carcass value. Therefore, choosing breed combinations for feedlots depends on slaughter end point and measures of efficiency.