Implications of Breed Type Evaluations

Quality, quantity, and cost of feed resources available for beef production vary from one region of the country to another and within regions, depending upon climatic factors and natural resources available in specific production situations. Diversity among breeds can be exploited by crossbreeding to optimize performance levels and to match genetic resources with the climatic environment, feed resources, and consumer preferences for lean and tender beef products. Crossbreeding also provides for significant benefits of heterosis on components of production efficiency. In this presentation, research results will be reviewed focusing on effects and utilization of heterosis and breed differences, and on the importance of matching genetic potential with consumer preferences and the climatic environment.