Comparison of Feedlot Performance and Carcass Traits of Charolais and Brahman Sired Three-Breed Cross Calves

Feedlot performance and carcass traits were compared between Charolais and Brahman sired three-breed cross calves. Data were obtained on 251 calves (127 heifers and 124 steers). All calves were placed on a self-fed finishing ration immediately after wea,ning and slaughtered when each animal attained an estimated low choice carcass grade. Feedlot performance favored calves sired by Charolais. Charolais sired calves gain .31Ib/day more rapidly and were 91 Ib heavier at slaughter. Significant sirebreed differences were also found for carcass traits. Charolais sired calves were 391b heavier in carcass weight, had a .07 Ib advantage in carcass weight per day of age, were lower in dressing percent by 1.2 percent, had .15 inches less fat cover, .33 percent less KHP fat, 1.99 square inches more REA and 2.05 percent higher estimated cutability than Brahman sired calves. Tenderness scores were similar and quite acceptable for both sirebreeds. Based on actual performance, Charolais cross calves would return $16.46 more per head above feedlot costs than Brahman cross calves.