The effect of initial fattening weight on sustainability of beef cattle production in feedlots

V Demircan

doi:10.5424/sjar/2008061-290

Abstract

The aim of this study was to conduct cultural energy (CE) analyses of beef cattle animals with different initial weights. Data were obtained by a questionnaire administered to 100 beef farms selected by stratified random sampling. The beef farms were divided into three groups based on initial animal weights and were analyzed. Initial weights were assigned as light (276 kg, 32 farms). Cultural energy used for feed for the treatments was derived from their lot feed consumption and values from the literature. Transportation energy was included in the analysis. As the objective of the study was to evaluate CE analysis of the feeding systems, energy that the calves had deposited in muscle and fat tissue, when they were purchased was deducted from carcass energy. Total expended CE was highest for the lighter animals (P

Highlights

The aim of this study was to conduct cultural energy (CE) analyses of beef cattle animals with different initial weights
Data were primary information obtained by a questionnaire from beef farmers in Afyon province, Turkey
The CE expended for feedlot operations for Kansas feedlots was used (Lipper et al, 1976)

Summary

Introduction

The aim of this study was to conduct cultural energy (CE) analyses of beef cattle animals with different initial weights. The beef farms were divided into three groups based on initial animal weights and were analyzed. Cultural energy Mcal–1 of protein energy decreased as initial body weight increased (P < 0.05). El propósito de este estudio fue realizar análisis de la energía para el engorde (CE) de ganado vacuno con diferentes pesos iniciales. La energía de alimentación constituyó más de la mitad del total de CE y fue superior en el ganado más ligero (P < 0,05). As world population and energy use increase, animal production systems that are more sustainable, consume less energy and use less cereal are needed. To sustain agricultural production, effective energy use in agriculture is required, since it gives f inancial savings, preserves fossil fuel resources and reduces air pollution (Pimentel, 1980; Pervanchon et al, 2002)

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