Growth of beef heifers from 7 to 11 months of age

Abstract

The purpose of the experiment was to evaluate the effect of live weight gain on growth parameters of beef heifers rearing on native pasture supplemented during autumn and winter seasons post-weaning (04/21/2004 to 09/16/2004; 148 days). The live weight gain was -1.08; 19.52 e 57.83 kg for treatments MA (Maintenance), BA (Low) and MO (Moderate), respectively. In the same order, the supplement offered was equivalent to 0.54; 0.81 and 1.25% of their live weight. The experimental design was entirely randomized. Initially, the heifers were 7 month old and weighted 171.13 kg. The parameters evaluated were body condition score (5 point scale), hip height, hearth girth and weight:height ratio. At the end of the period, the evaluated parameters differed between treatments, with the exception of hip height parameter between MA and BA. Even if the heifers did not gain live weight the hip height increased. As much lower was the live weight gain, as stronger was the influence on the hip height and heart girth, showing positive linear effect for all treatments. The body condition score did not increase, even for the treatment with higher live weight gain. The linear live weight gain effect on wheight:height ratio was similar between heifers groups.