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Limousine and Charolais cattle breeds are assuming increasing importance in the Italian beef cattle sector. Indeed, both breeds are involved in a national rural development project. The success of a breeding programme depends heavily not only on the defined breeding objective but also on the selected criteria used to attain it. Data from the Charolais and Limousine Italian Association (born between 1960 and 2017) were used to estimate both genetic parameters and trends for calving interval (CI) and age at first calving (AFC) and genetic diversity. Population structures were investigated through probabilities of gene origin approach whereas variance components estimation was used to obtain breeding values of reproductive parameters. Heritabilities for AFC and CI were 0.24 and 0.03 for Limousine and 0.32 and 0.02 for Charolais, respectively. An increasing genetic trend was observed for AFC. For CI, no significant gains of genetic origin have been verified. In both breeds, pedigree completeness was moderate, and the observed inbreeding coefficient was low. No herd is classified as a nucleus or isolated and they all use external bulls. Heritability for AFC in both breeds suggests possible improvements when selected. Limited improvements are expected for CI by means of a traditional genetic breeding scheme. A reduction in the generation interval might represent a cost-effective solution to increase annual genetic gain. Pedigree analysis suggests population bottleneck in both breeds.HIGHLIGHTS Limousine and Charolais breeds are involved in the national project for the genetic improvement of cattle populations raised in Italy. Genetic indexes will be developed following a genomic approach. This study is preparatory for the implementation of a selective programme of this type. The breeds presented a reduced number of animals in the genetic formation. High ‘bottleneck effect’. Moderate heritability for age at first calving.

Brazil is the world's fourth largest milk producer; this activity extends throughout the national territory, with productions of approximate 34 billion liters of milk per year. The objective of this work was to evaluate the genotype-environment interaction (GEI) in purebred Holstein cows for milk (M), protein (P), and fat (F) yields. The statistical models used were the standard animal model (AM), which disregards the GEI, and hierarchical reaction norm models with homoscedastic (HRNMHO) and heteroscedastic (HRNMHE) residual variance, and one (HRNMHO1S and HRNMHE1S) and two (HRNMHO2S and HRNMHE2S) steps. HRNMHO1S presented a better fit of the data for all traits, with higher heritability for the best environments. Most bulls presented robust phenotypes; however, GEI was found with a reclassification of the bulls in the environmental gradient. Although few, and less used, bulls with plastic phenotypes were found for all traits, and the use of them can optimize genetic gains in specific environments.

Background: Closed breeding populations are useful to conduct basic and applied research. The Wye Angus herd is one of them. It was founded using only a few animals. The pedigree of the descendants of the original herd can be completely described by historical records resulting from strong selection. Wye Angus genetics has influenced that of Aberdeen Angus, Red Angus, and Brangus cattle worldwide. Objective: To evaluate parameters and genetic trends associated with the reproduction traits of the Wye Angus herd between the years 1937 and 2012. Methods: We used pedigree information of 11,692 individuals. The reproductive traits assessed were age at first calving (AFC), calving interval (CI), and scrotal circumference (SC). The covariance components were estimated by Bayesian inference. The genetic trends were obtained by linear regression of the genetic values over birth years of the animals. Results: The heritability estimates for AFC, and CI were negligible, although a small genetic gain was associated with CI. Because the AFC and CI values of the herd are small, past reproductive management has produced favourable results for the heifers. Conclusion: The Wye Angus herd has enough genetic variability for genetic gain through selection on SC. Resumen Antecedentes: Las poblaciones reproductivas cerradas son útiles para realizar investigacion básica y aplicada. El hato Wye Angus es uno de ellos. Fue fundado utilizando sólo unos pocos animales. El pedigrí de los descendientes del hato original puede describirse completamente mediante registros históricos resultantes de una fuerte selección. La genética del Wye Angus ha influido en la del Aberdeen Angus, Red Angus y Brangus en todo el mundo. Objetivo: Evaluar los parámetros y las tendencias genéticas de características reproductivas del rebaño Wye Angus en el periodo entre 1937 y 2012. Métodos: Utilizamos información de pedigrí de 11.692 individuos. Las características evaluadas fueron circunferencia escrotal (SC), edad al primer parto (AFC) y el intervalo entre partos (CI). Los componentes de (co)variancia fueron obtenidos mediante metodología Bayesiana. Las tendencias genéticas fueron obtenidas por regresión lineal ponderada de los valores genéticos sobre el año de nacimiento del animal. Resultados: Las estimaciones de heredabilidad para AFC y CI fueron insignificantes, aunque se asoció un pequeño beneficio genético con CI. Sin embargo, la AFC y el CI del rebaño son bajos, indicando que el manejo reproductivo ha traído resultados favorables para las novillas. Conclusion: El rebaño Wye Angus posee suficiente variabilidad genética para la ganancia genética por medio de la selección para SC. Resumo Antecedentes: O rebanho Wye Angus foi fundado a partir de poucos animais e destaca-se por ser um rebanho fechado, com informações completas de pedigree e forte seleção, oferecendo vantagens únicas em termos de realização de pesquisas em melhoramento genético animal. Além disso, a genética de Wye Angus tem influenciado os de Aberdeen Angus, Red Angus e Brangus em todo o mundo. Objetivo: Avaliar os parâmetros genéticos e tendências de características reprodutivas do rebanho Wye Angus no período entre 1937 e 2012. Métodos: Foram usadas informações do pedigree de 11.692 individuos. As características avaliadas foram: perímetro escrotal (SC), idade ao primeiro parto (AFC), e do intervalo entre partos (CI). Componentes de (co) variância foram obtidos por meio da metodologia Bayesiana. As tendências genéticas foram obtidas por regressão linear ponderada dos valores genéticos sobre o ano de nascimento do animal. Resultados: Hereditariedade para AFC e CI foram insignificantes, embora um pequeno ganho genético tenha sido associado a CI. No entanto, os valores para AFC e CI do rebanho são baixos, indicando que o manejo reprodutivo trouxe resultados favoráveis para as novilhas. Conclusão: O rebanho Wye Angus tem variabilidade genética suficiente para ganho genético através de seleção para SC.

Brazilian Pantanal has edaphoclimatic adversities that can strongly affect genotypes. Therefore, sheep breeders should choose animals with a suitable body conformation able to express all the genetic potential. The objective of this work is to describe the body conformation of Santa Ines, Texel and Suffolk ewes raised in the Pantanal region. Four hundred and three adult ewes belonging to the Santa Ines (n = 188), Texel (n = 150) and Suffolk (n = 65) breeds were assessed to obtain eleven measures of length, width, and body perimeters. In addition, the morphometric measures were combined for calculations of conformation indices, milk and meat potential production, and genetic capabilities. Measurements of udder, direction of teats and ears, ear size, and head profile were also evaluated. Breed differences for quantitative variables were evaluated through analysis of variance (ANOVA) while the chi-squared test was conducted for qualitative variables. Subsequently, a factorial analysis was performed on the quantitative variables. Factors were labeled according to the factorial weights of the variables in each factor and used as new variables. The hypothesis of equality between breeds was tested simultaneously considering the new variables through multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Fischer’s discriminant function. The degree of similarity between breeds was evaluated by using canonical analysis and cluster analysis considering the mean Euclidean distance with grouping by means of complete linkage. According to the qualitative results, Texel and Suffolk ewes did not show phenotypic variability, but a well-defined breed standard. Santa Ines ewes presented variability, thus requiring genetic improvement and breed standardization. Quantitative characteristics (morphometry and indices) varied according to breed of origin. Suffolk and Texel ewes presented the most desirable model for meat production. The main difference between breeds is on body size and structure, which is relevant to the production system used in the Pantanal region.

The relationship between body development and external measures in sheep could provide useful information to define the optimal slaughter time as well as the adequate nutritional management. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the morpho-functional diversity of Dorper sheep crossed with Brazilian native breeds using in vivo morphometric analysis. The animals evaluated were from crosses of Dorper with Morada Nova, Rabo Largo and Santa Ines sheeps. The animals were slaughtered at 120 and 240 days of age. Body and carcass measures, weight of meat cuts and growth were evaluated. The crossbred animals were analyzed by sex, totaling six treatments. A factorial analysis was performed using two sets of data: the in vivo morphometric measures, and all the other characteristics and these factors were used as new variables. The differences among treatments were analyzed using MANOVA and canonical analysis. The meat cuts, conformation, marketability adaptation, and early maturity of the animals slaughtered at 120 days, as well as the meat cuts, conformation, adaptation, early maturity, and hindquarter of the animals slaughtered at 240 days were evaluated. As regards body measurements, at both slaughter ages, the following factors were discriminated: height, robustness, length, and thoracic circumference. Animal slaughtered at 120 days of age showed greater differences whereas at 240 days the differences diminished allowing to individuate which treatments were more adaptive or productive. Crosses ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Ines (male and female), and ½ Dorper × ½ Rabo Largo male slaughtered at 240 days seem to show higher productivity and better marketability abilities. The other crosses tend to have a more rustic profile (less productive) and smaller size, reaching however adult size earlier and showing better adaptive characteristics, which allows to decide for slaughtering at younger ages.

This study investigated phenotypic differences of zebu females from four breeds using variables of growth, feed efficiency, and age at first calving. Weights throughout the life were recorded, and a growth curve was fitted using the Gompertz model. The growth was also evaluated at standardized ages (205, 365, and 550 days) using the body weight and the total and daily weight gains. The Kleiber index and age at first calving were used as measures of feed efficiency and sexual precocity, respectively, totaling 25 variables. New variables were created using the factor analysis and used in new multivariate analyzes. Only six factors explained 95.41% of the total variance and were used for the subsequent analyses. The factors were defined as maturity, precocity, feed efficiency postweaning, feed efficiency post 1 year of age, puberty, and birth weight. There were differences between breeds according to the multivariate analysis of variance. Each breed appeared in a quadrant on the Biplot graph, showing relationship with different factors, demonstrating the diversity of zebu females. There is a difference in growth, feed efficiency, and sexual precocity in Brazilian zebu females, allowing the identification of potentials of the animals and help breeders and decision-makers.

In Brazil, much of the sheep farming is practiced with native breeds or crossbred with specialized breeds. The market is growing and to serve consumers it is necessary to regularly provide quality meat. Rearing these animals with lower production costs can be achieved using feed efficiency and growth information, useful to define the most appropriate crossbreed for both farm structures and breeder’s objectives. Thus, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the growth, carcass traits and Kleiber ratio (KR) of, respectively, 44 and 39 animals slaughtered at 120 (120D) and 240 days (240D) of the following crosses: Dorper x Morada Nova females and males (F_DMN, M_DMN), Dorper x Santa Ines females and males (F_DSI, M_DSI), and Dorper x Rabo Largo females and males (F_DRL, M_DRL). The traits evaluated were: the weight of the rib, loin, left half carcass, shoulder, leg, Longissimus Dorsi muscle area (LDM), growth curve and KR. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used, and it was observed, at 120D, that DSI and M_DRL had higher cut weights. There was the superiority of the M_DSI in relation to the others for the cuts rib, loin (excerpt with DRL that was similar), half carcass and shoulder at 240D. At 240D all crossbreeds have a value greater than 100 % of the percentage of their asymptotic weight, except the M_DSI. At 240D the animals tended to lower values of KR compared to 120D. Differences were observed between the crosses considering the variables simultaneously. In the grouping at 120D, an approximation between DSI and M_DRL was observed. The DMN at 240D, have lower values for carcass traits and growth and superiority for KR and degree of maturity. The M_DRL with F_DRL and F_DSI were characterized as intermediate for growth, carcass, and KR. In PCA1 at 120D, most of the explanation for differentiating crosses are concentrated in meat cuts. At 240D again, the carcasses contributed to differentiate the crosses, however sharing with the parameters of growth. It is concluded that animals should be slaughtered before 240D. If it is used to slaughter 120D, the cattle rancher can choose, when economically feasible, to slaughter animals regardless of sex and crossing, however, the farmers must be attentive only to prioritize the DSI and M_DRL as an alternative to serving the consumer market that prefers heavier cuts.

So far, rumination has been used as a proxy for monitoring dairy cow health at farm level. However, investigating its genetic aspects as well as its correlation with other important productive traits may turn this management tool into a new informative selection criterion. However, scientific evidences on genetic correlation among rumination time (RT) and milk production and milk composition are still scarce. Therefore, the objective of this study was to estimate the heritability of RT across three lactation phases and its genetic correlation with milk production, milk composition and somatic cell count (SCC). Results of our study showed that heritability for RT was 0.34 and was constant across lactation. The mean genetic correlations between RT and milk production and composition traits were 0.07 (milk production), -0.07 (protein yield), -0.31 (fat yield), and -0.32 (fat/protein ratio). The mean genetic correlation between RT and the SCC was 0.05.

Evaluating phenotypic diversity makes it possible to identify discrepancies in aptitudes among animals of different genetic bases, which is an indicator of adaptive or selective differences between populations. The objective of this work was to evaluate the morphofunctional diversity of 452 male and female adult equines (Arabian, Quarter Mile, Pantaneiro, and Criollo breeds, and undefined crossbreeds of horses and mules) raised in the Pantanal biome (Brazil). Linear measurements were performed to estimate conformation indexes. Initially, a discriminant analysis was performed, regardless of the animal's size, followed by factor analysis. The factors were characterized and used as new variables. The diversity among equines and their relationship with the factors were evaluated using multivariate analysis. The factors were classified according to their decreasing importance: balance, rusticity, and robustness for the measurement factors; and load, ability, conformation, and equilibrium for the index factors. The genetic groups of equines have well-defined morphofunctional characteristics. The main differences are based on the rusticity and ability typologies in relation to those based on performance. Equines introduced to the Pantanal biome presented a more robust and compact body with good conformation. As a result, these horses may have superior athletic performance during equestrian activities when compared to the Pantaneiro local breed. However, this biotype may represent less rusticity (less adaptive capacity). Therefore, the regional breed can be equal or better in equestrian activities than breeds introduced to the Pantanal biome. Thus, breeders may cross horses from local breeds as an alternative to those introduced. Undefined crossbred male equines presented a different profile from the Pantaneiro breed, which may indicate little use of crossbreeds in breeding.

The objectives of this work were to evaluate the genotype-environment interaction, and estimate genetic parameters, genetic trends, and performance dissimilarity-weight gain from birth to weaning (WGBW), adjusted weight to 205 days (W205), weight gain from weaning to 18 months of age (WG18), and adjusted weight to 550 days (W550)-in Nellore animals born between 1986 and 2012, and raised in pasture-based system in three different environmental gradients in Brazil. Data of 62,001 animals-11,729 raised in the Alto Taquari/Bolsão region (ATBR), 21,143 raised in the Campo Grande/Dourados region (CGDR) and 29,129 raised in the western São Paulo/Paraná region (SPPR) in Brazil-were used. The contemporary groups were defined by sex, location, and birth year and season, with at least nine individuals, two different environments, and breeding bulls with at least five progenies. The statistical model contained the direct additive and residual genetic effects (random effects), and environmental and contemporary group effects (fixed effects). Genetic parameters, genotype-environment interaction and genetic trends were estimates using animal model (uni- and/or bi- traits). The level of similarity between regions was evaluated using principal components. The animals raised in the CGDR had superior performance regarding the traits evaluated. The direct heritability estimates ranged from 0.39 to 0.44 (WGBW), 0.41 to 0.45 (W205), 0.42 to 0.55 (WG18) and 0.60 to 0.62 (W550). The maternal heritability of the traits ranged from 0.20 (WGBW), 0.12 to 0.18 (W205), 0.00 to 0.06 (WG18) and 0.02 to 0.22 (W550). According to the Spearman correlation, the ranking of the breeding bulls in the regions evaluated were different. The mean of Euclidean distance indicated low similarity between ATBR and CGDR (43.20), and ATBR and SPPR (29.24). CGDR and SPPR presented similarity of 17.84. The breed values increased over the years in the traits evaluated. The cumulative variance percentage of the first two main components explained 99.99% variation among the regions, and the weight gains of the animals were the most important to differentiate the regions. A genotype-environment interaction was found for the traits evaluated, thus, the breeding bull selected with superior genetic merit for one region might not be the best for others.

Genetic breeding programs generally evaluate animals considering the same objectives, but the indices used in the selection criteria can vary. This can give rise to distinct bull rankings in each program. Thus, we aimed to create alternatives for the referral of bulls for mating through multivariate analyses. We used information from the summaries of two genetic evaluation programs (1 and 2) with Nellore bulls. Characteristics were separated into groups: weight, carcass and reproduction. Groups were formed using the mean Euclidean distance and the Tocher optimization method. The means of each trait among the animals allocated to the same group were used to compose the following subindexes: weight gain (siWG), carcass (siCG) and reproduction (siRG). Based on the mean of the group subindex classification, we calculated the average index of group classification (iAGc). When classifying the best groups by characteristics, we observed an increase (superiority of some bulls) in the estimated breeding values (EBVs) by comparison with the total number of bulls evaluated by the programs, selected animals and best 10 final indexes of the programs. There was a change in bull classification when using the iAGc in relation to the classification using the final indexes of the programs. The coefficient of simple coincidence showed that there was a change in bull classification between programs, both between deciles of the final indexes and groups of characteristics. The subindexes siWG, siCG and siRG are important for correcting specific problems in herds. The iAGc should be used instead of the final index of the programs, providing more options for the selection of bulls for mating.

The aim was to investigate the population structure of eight beef breeds: three local Tuscan breeds under extinction, Calvana (CAL), Mucca Pisana (MUP), and Pontremolese (PON), three local unselected breeds reared in Sardinia, Sarda (SAR), Sardo Bruna (SAB), and Sardo Modicana (SAM), and two cosmopolitan breeds, Charolais (CHA) and Limousine (LIM), reared in the same regions. An effective population size ranges between 14.62 (PON) to 39.79 (SAM) in local breeds, 90.29 for CHA, and 135.65 for LIM. The average inbreeding coefficients were higher in Tuscan breeds (7.25%, 5.10%, and 3.64% for MUP, CAL, and PON, respectively) compared to the Sardinian breeds (1.23%, 1.66%, and 1.90% in SAB, SAM, and SAR, respectively), while for CHA and LIM they were &lt, 1%. The highest rates of mating between half-siblings were observed for CAL and MUP (~9% and 6.5%, respectively), while the highest rate of parent&ndash, offspring mating was ~8% for MUP. Our findings describe the urgent situation of the three Tuscan breeds and support the application of conservation measures and/or the development of breeding programs. Development of breeding strategies is suggested for the Sardinian breeds.

Vaccine abscesses are key factors to condemn beef cattle carcasses. Often, economic losses can compromise the profitability of both slaughter house and rural producer. This study aimed to quantify the losses in beef production by carcass parts damnation due to vaccine reactions. The study was conducted in partnership with the slaughter house located in Itapetinga (BA, Brazil). From a total of 7,033 slaughtered animals, 5,225 carcasses were evaluated (74.3% of total). Excised parts of carcasses due to vaccine reaction were separated, weighed and later discarded to rendering plant. The percentage of carcasses with some loss was greater than 98%. Disposal by vaccine reaction exceeded 0.500 kg/carcass. The average loss of total slaughtered animals reached 0.24% of the carcass. Considering only the studied slaughter house, there was an economic loss of R$ 29,978.75 in just 13 days of operation, or, the equivalent in american dollars of US$ 7,457.40 (exchange of 01/14/2016). Tissues removed from carcasses due to abscess formation cause significant loss for both slaughter houses and rural producers.

Dairy cattle production is distributed throughout the Brazilian regions. However, Brazilian producing regions are different in air temperature and humidity, diet, birth season, and other factors that may alter the reproductive performances of cows. The age of the cow at first calving (AFC) is a good indicator of sexual precocity since it shows the beginning of the female reproductive life and has a great influence on cow replacement costs. Researches on genotype-environment interaction (GEI) show the importance of using specific bulls for the different production systems in Brazil since most semen used in the country is imported. The objective of this work was to evaluate GEI for AFC in Holstein cows in Brazil, using reaction norms. The statistical models used were the standard animal model, which disregards the GEI, and hierarchical reaction norm models with homoscedastic (HRNMHO) and heteroscedastic (HRNMHE) residual variance, and one (HRNMHO1S and HRNMHE1S) and two (HRNMHO2S and HRNMHE2S) steps. HRNMHO1S presented better fit to the data, with lower heritability for environments with lower AFC, and higher heritability for environments with higher AFC. The GEI found was complex, with a reclassification of bulls, denoting the importance of considering GEI for evaluation and selection of bulls for different production levels. The reduction of AFC is possible when using breeding bulls adapted to the tropical and subtropical conditions of Brazil.

The genotypes express differentiated responses depending on the environmental conditions and this can cause a re-ordering of the genotype in the environmental gradient. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate the genotype-environment interaction (GxE) for age at first calving (AFC) in Limousine and Charolais cattle raised in Italy, using reaction norm model (RNM). The data comprises information from 35,255 Limousine and 7,339 Charolais animals, born between 1999 and 2017. The standard animal model (AM), which ignores the G x E interaction, and the hierarchical models of reaction norms with homogeneous and heterogeneous residual variances with one and two steps (MHNRHO1P, MHNRHO2P, MHNRHE1P, and MHNRHE2P) were used for the analysis. In both breeds, the MHNRHOP1 model presented the best fit. In favorable environments (lower AFC), there was less phenotypic variation; the AFC expression of the animals was close and this may have caused lower estimates of additive genetic effects ( σ A 2 ) and consequently lower heritabilities (h²). In Charolais, the h² for the animal model (AM) was 0.13, whereas for MHNRHOP1 the value varied throughout the environmental gradient from 0.06 to 0.13, for low and high AFC environments, respectively. In Limousine breed, a lower h² (0.06) was observed in the animal model (AM), while in the MHNRHOP1 model it varied from 0.00 to 0.15. In both breeds, bulls with higher genetic merits for one environment were not for another, demonstrating the existence of the GxE. In Charolais and Limousine breeds, more than 93.75% and 87.72% of the bulls presented extremely robust or robust genotypes, respectively. Although most bulls are robust, there are bulls reactive to the environment, which can lead to incorrect selection of breeders. The results suggest that the genotype-environment interaction should be considered in the selection for AFC in both breeds raised in Italy.

Os índices de conformação corporal (ICC) possibilita estimar aptdões de equinos. Não existem estudos que avaliem ICC em diferente grupos genéticos (GG) de equídeos puros criados no Pantanal. O objetivo foi avaliar ICC de 452 equídeos distribuídos em Árabe, Quarto de Milha, Pantaneiro, Crioulo, equinos e muares mestiços. Foram mensurados nos equídeos medidas lineares e através da combinações destas, realizou-se a estimação dos ICC. Para análise da diversidade entre os grupos genéticos, utilizou-se procedimento univariados e multivariados. Os ICC apresentam diferenças entre os grupos genéticos de equídeos criados no Pantanal. Pode-se hipotisar que os produtores tem optado por utilizar raças exóticas na produção de equinos e muares mestiços, visto o menor distanciamento encontrado entre a Crioula e Quarto de Milha, e maior com a raça local (Pantaneira). Equinos Pantaneiros, equinos e muares mestiços fêmeas possui menor aptdão para tarefas que exigem força, menor porte corporal e capacidade de carga, aptdões para sela em relação as raças puras exóticas. Apesar dos equinos Pantaneiros apresentarem menores aptdões para aitvidade que exijam força e capacidade de carga em relação as raças exóticas, não houve uma diferença de classificação suficiente para mudar o tipo coporal do animal (brevelíneo, mediolíneo e longelíneo), e considerando que esta raça possui perfil eumétrico (médio porte) e já adaptada as condições do Pantanal, os produtores podem optar seu uso quando se busca agregar também a rusticidade nos animais.

Purebred and crossbred calves (n = 3,871) were selected that were born in the sub-region of the Pantanal of Aquidauana (Brazil), derived from Nellore, Brangus, Wagyu, and 1/2 Brangus + 1/2 Nellore cows, which were artificially inseminated by bulls of the Aberdeen Angus, Red Angus, Brangus, Nellore, and Wagyubreeds. Parameters such as weaning weight, daily gain from birth to weaning, and the number of days to gain 160 kg, were assessed inthese calves and phenotypic correlations between the traits were evaluated. Data were analyzed using two statistical models. The first model included sire breed effects, the genetic group of the cow, sex, year of birth (AN), birth season (EN), and the interaction AN * EN. The second model included the genetic group of the calf, sex, AN, EN, and the interaction AN * EN. The genetic group of the cow and calf and the interaction AN * EN did not significantly affect body weight (p < 0.05). The average weaning weights of progeny were as follows: Aberdeen Angus bulls, 177.70 ± 3.28 kg; Red Angus, 180.31 ± 3.46 kg; Brangus, 181.48 ± 3.15 kg; Nellore, 175.43 ± 3.60 kg; and Wagyu, 173.16 ± 2.96 kg. RESUMO. Utilizaram-se informações de 3.871 bezerros puros e cruzados, provindos de fêmeas das raças: Nelore, Brangus, Wagyu e 1/2 Brangus vs. 1/2 Nelore, as quais receberam o sêmen proveniente de touros das raças Aberdeen Angus, Red Angus, Brangus, Nelore e Wagyu para avaliar efeitos sobre o peso a desmama, ganho diário de peso do nascimento a desmama e o número de dias para se obter 160 kg de bezerros nascidos na sub-região do Pantanal de Aquidauana (Brasil), avaliando correlações fenotípicas entre as características. Analisaram-se os dados, utilizaram-se dois modelos estatísticos. O primeiro incluiu efeitos de raça do touro, grupo genético da vaca, sexo, ano de nascimento (AN), estação de nascimento (EN) e interação AN*EN. O segundo incluiu grupo genético do bezerro, sexo, AN, EN e interação AN*EN. Grupo genético da vaca e interação AN*EN do bezerro não influenciou (p < 0.05) no peso ao desmame. Observou-se peso médio ao desmame para filhos de touros Aberdeen Angus de 177,7 ± 3,3 kg, Red Angus de 180,3 ± 3,5 kg, Brangus de 181,48 ± 3,2 kg, Nelore de 175,4 ± 3,6 kg e Wagyu de 173,1 ± 3,0 kg.

The paper examined the coats and morphometric and conformation indices of 125 adult Quarter horses, distributed in purebred horses (67 females and 26 males) and crossbred horses (24 females and 8 males), used in Lasso competitions in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Coat color variation was studied based on simple count of the occurrences of the phenomenon. The morphometric analysis considered 28 linear measurements, which were the base for the calculation of 12 conformation indices. The least squares method was applied. The variation sources in the model were the effects of gender, genetic group (purebred or crossbred horses), and the interaction genetic group/gender. The Pearson correlation was estimated between the morphometric and the conformation indices. The most predominant coat colors among the horses were bay (42.40 %) and chestnut (22.40 %). The variation sources affected the morphometric and conformation indices (p

Resumo Objetivou-se avaliar a estrutura populacional de 91.579 animais da raça Nelore criados no Semiárido Nordestino, nascidos entre 1965 e 2011. Analisaram-se o pedigree e a estimação dos parâmetros populacionais baseados na probabilidade de origem do gene. Nos primeiros anos, registraram-se nascimentos superiores de fêmeas, tendendo ao equilíbrio entre os sexos com o passar dos anos. Os números de efetivo de animais fundadores (ƒe) e ancestrais (ƒa) indicaram a utilização reduzida de animais na formação genética do rebanho. Dentre 24.676 ancestrais, 450 foram responsáveis por 50% da variabilidade genética da população. Dos 10 fundadores de maior importância, 8 se apresentam dentre os 10 ancestrais; o indivíduo com maior expressão apresentou coeficiente de relação médio (CR) de 1,31%, explicando 1,81% da variabilidade. 72% dos animais têm pais e mães identificados, observando-se perda de informação entre as gerações. 100% dos rebanhos utilizam touros externos e 61% deles vendem touros, não havendo classificação núcleo ou isolado. Endogamia variou de 0,14% na segunda geração a 0,73% na oitava, enquanto que o CR oscilou de 0,8% a 0,35% entre a primeira e a quarta geração, decrescendo a partir da quinta. Observou-se um intervalo médio de gerações de 8,3 anos. O rebanho possui número reduzido de animais na formação genética e pequena integralidade do pedigree, dificultando a estimativa de alguns parâmetros populacionais. Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the population structure of 91,579 Nellore cattle reared in the Northeast semi-arid, born between 1965 and 2011. We analyzed the pedigree and the estimation of population parameters based on the probability of gene origin. In the early years, a higher number of female births occured, tending to gender balance over the years. The number of founder animals (fe) and ancestors (fa) indicated the reduced use of animals in the genetic formation of the herd. Among 2,4676 ancestors, 450 were responsible for 50% of the genetic variability of the population. Of the 10 most important founders, 8 were among the 10 ancestors. The individual with the highest expression presented a mean coefficient of relationship (CR) of 1.31%, explaining 1.81% of the variability.72% of animals have identified fathers and mothers, revealing loss of information between generations. 100% of the herds use external bulls and 61% of them sell bulls, with no core classification or isolate. Inbreeding ranged from 0.14% in the second generation to 0.73% in the eighth, while the CR ranged from 0.8% to 0.35% between the first and fourth generations, decreasing from the fifth on. The average generation interval observed was of 8.3 years. The herd has a small number of animals in the genetic make-up, and small completeness of pedigree, making it difficult to estimate some population parameters.

Resumo Qualquer atividade equestre exig e equino com aptidão adequada, podendo ser identificada através da conformação corporal (IC), calculada pela combinação de medidas biométricas. Objetivou-se avaliar IC de 86 equinos, pertencentes aos grupos genéticos (GG): Crioulo (CR), Brasileiro de Hipismo (BH), Árabe (ARB), Quarto de Milha (QM), Puro Sangue Inglês (PSI) e mestiços com pequena estatura corporal, rotulado Petiço (PE). Avaliaram-se relação cernelha garupa, peso corporal estimado, torácico, corporal, corporal relativo, conformação, compacidade e carga 1 e 2, carga na canela e dáctilo-torácico. Analisaram-se efeito de sexo (S), GG e interação S*GG; correlações entre IC; componentes principais, elaborando-se diagrama de dispersão com biplot, para se verificar a distribuição dos GG em relação aos IC; e cluster para verificar distância entre GG. Os efeitos foram responsáveis por variações (P

A bacia hidrográfica da Lagoa Comprida (BHLC) sofre o impacto do uso e ocupação de sua área devido à expansão urbana de Aquidauana/MS. Objetivou-se analisar a relação entre resíduos sólidos (kg/m²), orgânico (RO) e inorgânico (RI), e o comportamento do pH e matéria orgânica (MO) (mg/dm³) do solo da BHLC. Abriram-se na BHLC cinco trincheiras de 1 m² de superfície e 40 cm de profundidades em três pontos: local de um Antigo Lixão Municipal (ALM); duas áreas onde se encontra o Parque da Lagoa Comprida (Centro do Parque – ACP e Trilha Ecológica do Parque – TEP). De cada trincheira, peneirou-se o solo, separando-se os RO e RI; e determinou-se a MO e pH. Para a granulometria realizaram-se amostragens compostas nas profundidades 0-20 e 20-40 cm, sendo a textura dos solos nas áreas franco-arenosas. RI e RO relacionaram-se negativamente com MO e pH respectivamente. ACP e TEP apresentaram os maiores valores para RO e MO. ALM apresentou o maior valor para RI e pH. Conclui-se que o pH na ACP e TEP foi ácido, possivelmente associado à MO em decomposição. Os RI podem estar contribuindo nos teores da MO na área do ALM, o que demonstra a importância de cuidados nos locais onde despejam lixos.

We analyzed the pregnancy rate (PR) and birth rate (BR) of Nellore cows raised extensively in the Cerrado/Pantanal during 4 mating seasons (2009-2012), assessing the relationship with the temperature and humidity index (THI) and the effect of the year and breeding season. We used information from 2,116 cows, which were categorized as either multiparous (n = 1430), primiparous (n = 338), or nulliparous (n = 348). In the months of the breeding season (December-February), temperature and relative humidity data were collected to calculate the temperature and humidity index (THI). An ANOVA was performed with a model that included sources of variation from the fixed effects of category of cow and year on PR and BR; and a linear regression analysis and correlation between THI and PR and BR. We observed a significant effect (p < 0.05) on PR. We classified the average across breeding seasons as a moderate THI. The THI of the breeding seasons showed high and significant (p < 0.05) effects only on the nulliparous BR, and low values in other categories. It is concluded that the seasonal THI was not related to the performance of cows, except BR in nulliparous cows. Analisou-se taxa de prenhez (TP) e de natalidade (TN) de matrizes Nelores criadas extensivamente no Cerrado/Pantanal, acasaladas durante 4 estações de monta natural (2009 a 2012), avaliando relação com índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU) e efeito do ano da estação de monta. Utilizaram-se 2.116 informações de matrizes, pertencentes às categorias de multíparas (n = 1430), primíparas (n = 338) e nulíparas (n = 348). Nos meses de estação de monta (dezembro a fevereiro) coletaram-se informações da temperatura e umidade relativa do ar, para o cálculo de índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU). Realizaram-se análise de variância com um modelo contendo como fontes de variação os efeitos fixos de categoria e ano de estação de monta sob a TP e TN; e análise da regressão linear e correlação entre o ITU e a TP e TN. Observaram-se efeito significativo (p < 0,05) de categoria sob a TP. Classificou-se o ITU médio entre as estações de monta como moderado. O ITU das estações de monta apresentou relação alta e significativa (p < 0,05) apenas na TN das nulíparas, e baixas tendências de relação com as demais. Conclui-se que o ano da estação de monta e o ITU não apresentaram relação com desempenho das matrizes, exceto as nulíparas considerando ITU e TN.

Conhecer o progresso genético e fenotípico de uma população é importante para se avaliar o resultado dos programas de seleção adotados e como elementos norteadores de ações futuras. Assim, objetivou-se estimar parâmetros genéticos, tendências genéticas e fenotípicas dos pesos aos 205 (P205), 365 (P365) e 550 (P550) dias de idade, idade ao primeiro parto (IPP), circunferência escrotal (CE) e intervalos de partos (IDP) de 175.231 bovinos Nelore, nascidos no período de 1967 a 2011 na região Nordeste do Brasil. Os componentes de (co) variância e valores genéticos foram obtidos por meio da metodologia da máxima verossimilhança restrita. As estimativas dos coeficientes de herdabilidades para as características de crescimento foram de baixa a moderada magnitude. A seleção direta proporcionará maiores ganhos genéticos para P550. Para as características reprodutivas, a estimativa de herdabilidade foi baixa para IPP e próxima a zero para IDP. Contudo, para a CE a herdabilidade foi moderada, indicando seu uso como critério de seleção. As tendências genéticas diretas para P205, P365, P550 e IPP, indicam pequenos ganhos genéticos ao longo dos anos. Os progressos fenotípicos evidenciam que as características estão melhorando com o decorrer dos anos, principalmente em decorrência da melhoria ambiental.

The request for products of buffalo origin beef and milk has been growing throughout the years, and to meet this demand it is necessary to obtain animals with high levels of performance guaranteed through generations. Thus, it is of paramount importance to know the heritability of the desired traits in order to genetically improve the populations. The objective was to estimate the genetic parameters for weight gain from birth to weaning BWGW and from weaning to 12 months of age WGW12 of Murrah 4675 , Mediterranean 405 , and Jaffarabadi 766 buffaloes raised in Brazil. Bayesian inference with the bi-trait model was used. The direct heritability in the Mediterranean and the Jaffarabadi breeds presented low to moderate estimates whereas the Murrah breed was medium for the two traits considered. Heritability estimates for maternal effect were low for BWGW and decreased with advancing age but remained present until 12 months of age. The genetic correlations found between all traits indicate that selection for increased weight gain at younger ages leads to increased weight gain at 12 months and it is thus possible to select at this age since the weight gains are highly correlated in all breeds.

The primary aim of this study was to characterize the phenotypes of equines raised in the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul, one of the central-western states of Brazil. Eighteen linear measurements were collected from 498 adult horses belonging to several different breeds, including Pantaneira (n = 52), Arabic (n = 28), Crioulo (n = 31), Mangalarga (n = 8), Quarter Horse (n = 97), Petiço (n = 9), Crossbred Horses (i.e., undetermined breeding; n = 170), and Mules (n = 74). These measurements were compared to similar measurements taken of English Thoroughbreds (n = 14) and Brazilian Equestrians (n = 15) in the city of Campo Grande, the capital of Mato Grasso do Sul. We used analysis of variance to test the influence of several factors, including genetic group, category (horse or mule), sex, and their interactive effects, on phenotypic characteristics. Correlation estimates verified the Euclidean distance between genetic groups categorized via cluster analysis. The effects were significant (P < 0.05) for many of the phenotypic characteristics. Horses showed higher values for most of the measurements compared to mules, except for the length of the head, lumbar back length, and cannon bone circumference, as well as greater correlation between weight and heart girth (r = 0.98). Cluster analysis determined that the animals were categorized into nine groups, with 10 distinct populations. Correspondence analysis showed that the Crioulo, Crossbred Horses, Mules, Pantaneiro, and Mangalarga breeds were less distinct phenotypically. The Petiço breed was not grouped, whereas Quarter Horses, English Thoroughbreds, and Brazilian Equestrians were more phenotypically distinct from the other breeds.