Bioeconomic evaluation of pasture sheep finishing using castor bean cake / Avaliação bioeconômica da terminação de ovinos sob pastejo utilizando torta de mamona

This study evaluates the economic viability of sheep finishing systems on irrigated Tamani grass pasture under continuous stocking, using castor bean cake. Four production systems were simulated: sheep supplemented with soybean meal on pasture fertilized with urea (SMUR), sheep supplemented with detoxified castor bean cake on pasture fertilized with urea (CCdUR), sheep supplemented with soybean meal on pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake (SMCC) and sheep supplemented with detoxified castor bean cake on pasture fertilized with in natura castor bean cake (CCdCC). A minimum unit of 3 hectares and an average slaughter weight of 28 kg were considered. A minimum selling price, at which the least profitable system would become profitable, was stablished: US$ 2.38 and US$ 4.45/kg per kilogram of body weight and carcass weight equivalent, adopting a minimum rate of return of 3.5% per year, based on the Selic rate. The costs for organic fertilization were 46.01% higher than in systems using chemical fertilization. The selling of live animals was not attractive in any of the systems evaluated, and the opposite was observed for the selling of carcasses and non-carcass components. System SMUR proved to be more profitable, with a gain of US$ 0.53 per kg carcass.

Objetivou-se avaliar a economicidade de sistemas de terminação de ovinos em pastagem irrigada de capim-tamani sob lotação contínua, utilizando torta de mamona. Foram simulados quatro sistemas de produção: ovinos suplementados com farelo de soja e o pasto adubado com ureia (FSUR), ovinos suplementados com torta de mamona destoxificada e o pasto adubado com ureia (TMdUR), ovinos suplementados com farelo de soja e o pasto adubado com torta de mamona in natura (FSTM) e ovinos suplementados com torta de mamona destoxificada e o pasto adubado com torta de mamona in natura (TMdTM). Foi considerada a unidade mínima de 3 hectares e determinado um peso médio ao abate de 28 kg de peso corporal. Estabeleceu-se um preço de venda mínimo, no qual o sistema de criação menos lucrativo se tornasse rentável de 2,38 e 4,45 dólares por quilograma de peso corporal e por equivalente de peso da carcaça, dotando uma taxa mínima de atratividade de 3,5% ao ano, com base na taxa Selic. Os custos com adubação orgânica, em média, são 46,01% superiores aos sistemas que utilizam adubação química. A venda de animais vivos não é atrativa em nenhum dos sistemas avaliados, sendo o contrário observado para a comercialização de carcaças e dos não componentes da carcaça de ovinos. O sistema de produção FSUR se mostrou mais lucrativo, com ganho de US$ 0.53 centavos por kg de carcaça.

Lipid profile and metabolic parameters of tilapia in the finishing phase in earth ponds or using biofloc technology

Tilapia is a species with great growth potential. Its production comes from a semi-intensive system, such as earthen ponds (EP). Recently, biofloc technology (BFT) appears as an option to intensify fish production. The objective of this work was to compare the organosomatic indices, biochemical parameters, and chemical composition of tilapia reared in EP and BFT. Fish were grown for 150 days, with an initial weight of ≅ 2 g and a final weight of ≅ 780 g. Thereafter, tissues and organs were collected to determine organosomatic indices and analyze biochemical parameters, fatty acid, and proximate composition. The carcass yield was higher for tilapia reared in EP than BFT. The production system did not affect the fish fillet yield. The other organosomatic parameters were higher for tilapia reared in BFT. Tilapia reared in EP showed higher content of crude protein and lipids in the fillet. In both production systems, there was no difference in the body lipid profile. Fish in BFT showed a higher concentration of glucose and ammonia in the muscle and amino acids in the liver. Fish reared in EP showed a higher concentration of lactate in the liver compared to those in BFT. In conclusion, the production system alters the metabolism of fish. The biofloc has a considerable amount of fatty acids, which can be considered in the formulation of diets for tilapia in this system.(AU)

Weaning and concentrate supplementationon the characteristics of carcass cuts and longissimusmuscle of Suffolk lambs finished on pasture

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of weaning and concentrate supplementation on the characteristics of carcass cuts and longissimusmuscle of Suffolk lambs finished ona Tifton 85 (Cynodonspp.) pasture. Weaning and concentrate supplementation strategies were evaluated in four finishing systems: i) non-weaned and non-supplemented lambs; ii) non-weaned lambs supplemented with concentrate in creep feeding;iii) weaned and non-supplemented lambs; and iv) weaned lambs supplemented with concentrate. In the systems with weaning, lambs were weaned at 46 ± 6 days of age. In the systems with supplementation, the concentrate was offered daily at 2% of lambs body weight. Weaning led to a decrease, whereas supplementation led to an increase in carcass cut weights. Supplemented lambs had lower yields of neck and uncovered ribs, and higher yields of breast + flank and loin. The characteristics of loin eye and fat thicknessover the longissimusmuscle presented lower values in weaned lambs and higher values in supplemented lambs. Keeping lambs with their dams and offering concentrate supplementation until slaughter are strategies recommended to obtain heavier cuts with increased muscularity and fat content.(AU)

Insensibilização e a qualidade da carne suína: Revisão bibliográfica / Stunning and pork meat quality: Bibliographic review

Produtos de origem animal destinados ao consumo humano vêm apresentando uma notoriedade quanto a biossegurança, rastreabilidade, qualidade, higiene e bem-estar animal frente aos consumidores. Após a terminação do suíno na granja, as etapas de pré-abate e abate, refletiram diretamente no produto final, consequentemente nos lucros obtidos pela empresa. Este trabalho tem por objetivo explicar como devem ser empregados os dois principais métodos de insensibilização aplicados na suinocultura e os efeitos na carcaça quanto a utilização dos mesmos. Demostrando desta forma, que ambos os sistemas são eficazes quanto ao bem- estar e a qualidade do produto final, desde que sejam adequadamente administrados.(AU)

Products of animal origin destined for human consumption have been presenting a notoriety regarding biosecurity, traceability, quality, hygiene and animal welfare to consumers. After finishing the pigs on the farm, the preslaughter and slaughter stages reflect directly on the final product, and consequently on the profits obtained by the company. This paper aims to explain how the two main stunning methods used in pig farming should be used and the effects on the carcass when using them. Thus, demonstrating that both systems are effective in terms of welfare and quality of the final product as long as they are properly managed.(AU)

Socioeconomic and investment profile of environment control in a swine integration system

The objective of this study was to characterize and understand the investment profile towards technologies for control and automation of climate control on swine farms, focused on integrated producers on the same integration system. A structured questionnaire including open, dichotomic, or multiple-choice questions was responded by 190 integrated producers classified as nursery (28,300 swines), wean-to-finish (WTF; 144,388 swines), or finishing unit (FU; 164,185 swines) farms. Data were described and categorized according to the type of integrated producer (nursery, WTF, and FU) and income history during a 24-month interval. The most predominant farmer profile was of a 44.5-year-old man, with incomplete secondary education. Furthermore, the majority of the farms had family-based labor with an average area of 43.6±65.5 ha and ~2.4 economic activities developed. Overall, a reduced labor availability was observed, although the integrated producers declared to be satisfied with the activities. Interestingly, integrated producers with a better income history declared a longer working (high = 37; average = 31; regular = 31; low = 28 min). The investment profile in automation technologies is conservative; however, potential improvements in pig performance were the most popular justification for potential investments. Furthermore, high costs, knowledge in technologies, interest rates, and quality of the available material are the limiting factors for investing in environment control. A total of 74% of the integrated producers considered the activity as economically profitable. Lastly, the uptake of environmental control technologies is strongly associated with the average income received by farmers.(AU)

Stress levels of mangalita, large white, and pietrain pigs reared in different housing systems in south eastern Europe / Níveis de estresse de mangalita, grandes porcos brancos e pietrain criados em diferentes sistemas de alojamento no sudeste europeu

Cortisol is a steroid hormone that regulates a wide range of vital processes throughout the body, including metabolism and the immune response. It also has a very important role in helping the body respond to stress. Numerous studies have been conducted around the world to compare the development rates of pigs raised indoors to those raised outdoors, but the results have been ambiguous and, in many cases, conflicting. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of various housing systems (indoors with no free access to outdoor runs or indoors with free access to outdoor runs) on stress levels and slaughter value in growing-finishing pigs.

O cortisol é um hormônio esteroide que regula uma ampla gama de processos vitais em todo o corpo, incluindo o metabolismo e a resposta imune. Ele também tem um papel muito importante em ajudar o corpo a responder ao estresse. Numerosos estudos foram realizados em todo o mundo para comparar as taxas de desenvolvimento de porcos criados em ambientes fechados com aqueles criados ao ar livre, mas os resultados foram ambíguos e, em muitos casos, conflitantes. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar os efeitos de vários sistemas de alojamento (dentro de casa sem acesso livre a corridas ao ar livre ou dentro de casa com acesso livre a corridas ao ar livre) nos níveis de estresse e no valor de abate em suínos em crescimento e terminação.

Weaning and concentrate supplementation on the characteristics of carcass cuts and longissimus muscle of Suffolk lambs finished on pasture

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of weaning and concentrate supplementation on the characteristics of carcass cuts and longissimus muscle of Suffolk lambs finished on a Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.) pasture. Weaning and concentrate supplementation strategies were evaluated in four finishing systems: i) non-weaned and non-supplemented lambs; ii) non-weaned lambs supplemented with concentrate in creep feeding; iii) weaned and non-supplemented lambs; and iv) weaned lambs supplemented with concentrate. In the systems with weaning, lambs were weaned at 46 ± 6 days of age. In the systems with supplementation, the concentrate was offered daily at 2% of lambs' body weight. Weaning led to a decrease, whereas supplementation led to an increase in carcass cut weights. Supplemented lambs had lower yields of neck and uncovered ribs, and higher yields of breast + flank and loin. The characteristics of loin eye and fat thickness over the longissimus muscle presented lower values in weaned lambs and higher values in supplemented lambs. Keeping lambs with their dams and offering concentrate supplementation until slaughter are strategies recommended to obtain heavier cuts with increased muscularity and fat content.(AU)

Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasitic diseases of swine in different production phases in commercial pig farms from the State of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil / [Ocorrência de parasitoses gastrointestinais dos suínos, nas diferentes fases de produção, em granjas comerciais de Santa Catarina, Brasil]

Gastrointestinal parasites are important, since they can cause a decrese in the performance of swine. The occurrence of parasites in pig farms can create economic losses such as reduction in the value of carcasses and increasing expenses with medicines and veterinary assistance. This study aimed at investigating the occurrence of intestinal parasites in different phases of production reared pigs in intensive prodution systems in the western region of the State of Santa Catarina. A total of 403 fecal samples were analyzed, of which 51.86% were positive for one or more parasites in different phases of production. Finishing pigs had the highest prevalence of parasites (60.19%) followed by nursery pigs (55.44%), pigs in breading sows (50.49%), and suckling piglets (40.81%). Strongylida parasites had higher occurrence (28.78%), and were also the most frequent in the finishing, breading sows, and nursery phases. Coccidia were more occurrent in suckling piglets. This study highlights the need of implementing suitable antiparasitic control measures in all phases of swine production associated with a surveillance system for the diagnosis of endoparasite infection in pigs. Our results demonstrate that endoparasites are highly occurring in pigs, even in intensive system animals on technified farms.(AU)

Parasitas gastrointestinais são importantes, pois podem causar uma diminuição no desempenho dos suínos. A ocorrência de parasitas em granjas de suínos pode gerar perdas econômicas, como redução no valor das carcaças e aumento de gastos com medicamentos e assistência veterinária. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a ocorrência de parasitas intestinais nas diferentes fases de produção de suínos criados em sistemas intensivos, na região oeste do estado de Santa Catarina. Foram analisadas 403 amostras fecais, das quais 51,86% foram positivas para um ou mais parasitas nas diferentes fases de produção. Os suínos de terminação apresentaram a maior prevalência de parasitas (60,19%), seguidos por suínos de creche (55,44%), suínos em gestação (50,49%) e leitões em lactação (40,81%). Parasitas da ordem Strongylida tiveram maior ocorrência (28,78%) e também foram os mais frequentes nos estágios de terminação, reprodução e creche. Coccídios foram mais ocorrentes em leitões lactentes. Este estudo destaca a necessidade de implementar medidas de controle antiparasitário adequadas em todas as fases da produção suína, associadas a um sistema de vigilância para o diagnóstico de infecção por endoparasitas em suínos. Os resultados demonstram que os endoparasitas são altamente ocorrentes em suínos, mesmo em animais de criação intensiva em granjas tecnificadas.(AU)

Causes of death of beef cattle raised in feedlots / Causas de morte de bovinos de corte criados em confinamentos

The causes of death of cattle kept in pre-export feedlots (PEFs) and in feedlot for finishing for slaughter are described. Two studies were conducted: a retrospective study of mortality cases in feedlots from 2000 to 2017 registered at the "Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico" of the "Faculdade de Veterinária" of the "Universidade Federal de Pelotas"; and a prospective study from January 2018 to August 2019, following up 22 feedlots for finishing and six PEFs for the export of live cattle. From January 2000 to August 2019 samples of 150 cases of diseases that affected feedlot cattle were received from 22 feedlots for finishing and 115 of the six PEFs followed. Mortality considering all diagnosed diseases was significantly higher in feedlots for finishing (p<0.05), than in PEFs for the export of live cattle, of 1% and 0.12%, respectively. Diseases of the digestive system were the most important causes, of death in feedlots regardless of its purpose. Acidosis presented the highest mortality rates both in feedlot for finishing (3.33%) as in PEFs for export (0.95%). In all cases the disease occurred due to failure in the adaptation of animals to the ingestion of concentrated foods. Bovine tick fever and pneumonia presented mortality rates of 0.13% and 0.09%, respectively in PEFs. In the feedlot for finishing seneciosis was the second cause of death due to cattle coming from areas with high infestation by the plant. In the present study, it was possible to identify the main diseases that occur in cattle feedlots for finishing or for the export of live animals in the southern region of Rio Grande do Sul. These diseases are known in other systems of cattle breeding and can be prevented or controlled through management, chemoprophylaxis or vaccination, minimizing losses due to mortality.(AU)

Descrevem-se as causas de morte de bovinos mantidos confinados em estabelecimentos pré-embarque (EPEs) para exportação de animais vivos e em estabelecimentos de terminação para abate. Foram realizados dois estudos: um retrospectivo dos casos de mortalidade em confinamentos de 2000 a 2017 registrados no Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico da Faculdade de Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Pelotas; e um estudo prospectivo de janeiro de 2018 a agosto de 2019, acompanhando-se 22 confinamentos de terminação e seis EPEs para exportação de bovinos vivos. No total, de janeiro de 2000 a agosto de 2019 foram recebidos no LRD-UFPel amostras de 150 casos de enfermidades que afetaram bovinos confinados, 35 provenientes de 22 confinamentos de terminação e 115 dos seis EPEs acompanhados. A mortalidade considerando-se todas as enfermidades diagnosticadas foi significativamente maior nos confinamentos para terminação (p<0,05), do que nos EPEs para exportação de bovinos vivos, de 1% e 0,12%, respectivamente. As doenças do sistema digestivo foram as causas de morte mais importante nos confinamentos, independente da finalidade. Acidose apresentou as maiores taxas de mortalidade tanto nos confinamentos para terminação (3,33%) como nos EPEs para exportação (0,95%). Em todos os casos a doença ocorreu devido a falha na adaptação dos animais à ingestão de alimentos concentrados. Tristeza parasitária bovina e pneumonias apresentaram taxas de mortalidade de 0,13% e 0,09, respectivamente em EPEs de exportação. Nos confinamentos para terminação a seneciose foi a segunda causa de morte devido aos bovinos serem provenientes de áreas com alta infestação pela planta. Este estudo permitiu identificar as principais enfermidades diagnosticadas em confinamentos para terminação de bovinos ou para exportação de bovinos vivos na região Sul do Rio Grande do Sul. Observou-se que são doenças que ocorrem em outros sistemas de criação de bovinos e que podem ser prevenidas ou controladas por meio de manejo, quimioprofilaxia ou vacinação, minimizando prejuízos por mortalidade de animais.(AU)

Causes of death of beef cattle raised in feedlots / Causas de morte de bovinos de corte criados em confinamentos

The causes of death of cattle kept in pre-export feedlots (PEFs) and in feedlot for finishing for slaughter are described. Two studies were conducted: a retrospective study of mortality cases in feedlots from 2000 to 2017 registered at the "Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico" of the "Faculdade de Veterinária" of the "Universidade Federal de Pelotas"; and a prospective study from January 2018 to August 2019, following up 22 feedlots for finishing and six PEFs for the export of live cattle. From January 2000 to August 2019 samples of 150 cases of diseases that affected feedlot cattle were received from 22 feedlots for finishing and 115 of the six PEFs followed. Mortality considering all diagnosed diseases was significantly higher in feedlots for finishing (p<0.05), than in PEFs for the export of live cattle, of 1% and 0.12%, respectively. Diseases of the digestive system were the most important causes, of death in feedlots regardless of its purpose. Acidosis presented the highest mortality rates both in feedlot for finishing (3.33%) as in PEFs for export (0.95%). In all cases the disease occurred due to failure in the adaptation of animals to the ingestion of concentrated foods. Bovine tick fever and pneumonia presented mortality rates of 0.13% and 0.09%, respectively in PEFs. In the feedlot for finishing seneciosis was the second cause of death due to cattle coming from areas with high infestation by the plant. In the present study, it was possible to identify the main diseases that occur in cattle feedlots for finishing or for the export of live animals in the southern region of Rio Grande do Sul. These diseases are known in other systems of cattle breeding and can be prevented or controlled through management, chemoprophylaxis or vaccination, minimizing losses due to mortality.(AU)

Descrevem-se as causas de morte de bovinos mantidos confinados em estabelecimentos pré-embarque (EPEs) para exportação de animais vivos e em estabelecimentos de terminação para abate. Foram realizados dois estudos: um retrospectivo dos casos de mortalidade em confinamentos de 2000 a 2017 registrados no Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico da Faculdade de Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Pelotas; e um estudo prospectivo de janeiro de 2018 a agosto de 2019, acompanhando-se 22 confinamentos de terminação e seis EPEs para exportação de bovinos vivos. No total, de janeiro de 2000 a agosto de 2019 foram recebidos no LRD-UFPel amostras de 150 casos de enfermidades que afetaram bovinos confinados, 35 provenientes de 22 confinamentos de terminação e 115 dos seis EPEs acompanhados. A mortalidade considerando-se todas as enfermidades diagnosticadas foi significativamente maior nos confinamentos para terminação (p<0,05), do que nos EPEs para exportação de bovinos vivos, de 1% e 0,12%, respectivamente. As doenças do sistema digestivo foram as causas de morte mais importante nos confinamentos, independente da finalidade. Acidose apresentou as maiores taxas de mortalidade tanto nos confinamentos para terminação (3,33%) como nos EPEs para exportação (0,95%). Em todos os casos a doença ocorreu devido a falha na adaptação dos animais à ingestão de alimentos concentrados. Tristeza parasitária bovina e pneumonias apresentaram taxas de mortalidade de 0,13% e 0,09, respectivamente em EPEs de exportação. Nos confinamentos para terminação a seneciose foi a segunda causa de morte devido aos bovinos serem provenientes de áreas com alta infestação pela planta. Este estudo permitiu identificar as principais enfermidades diagnosticadas em confinamentos para terminação de bovinos ou para exportação de bovinos vivos na região Sul do Rio Grande do Sul. Observou-se que são doenças que ocorrem em outros sistemas de criação de bovinos e que podem ser prevenidas ou controladas por meio de manejo, quimioprofilaxia ou vacinação, minimizando prejuízos por mortalidade de animais.(AU)

Termination of lambs fed concentrate or pasture: performance and technical feasibility / Terminação de cordeiros alimentados com concentrado ou pastagem: desempenho e viabilidade técnica

A total of 28 uncastrated lambs, with 20kg of body mass (BM) were distributed into two different finishing systems where animals were fed either concentrate (CFS) or pasture (PFS) until 35 kg BM. The CFS diet consisted of 77.4% of corn grain; 20.2% soybean meal; 1.4% limestone and 1.0% sodium bicarbonate. The PFS diet consisted of both native pasture and ryegrass. The evaluated parameters were: dry matter intake (DMI), organic matter intake (OMI), crude protein intake (CPI), neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI), feed conversion (FC), mean daily gain, days to reach 35kg BM, ruminal pH, in vivo biometric measurements, carcass composition, percentage of commercial cuts, pallet composition, and proportion of body components. The CFS animals had higher DMI, OMI, CPI and lower NDFI when compared to PFS. Also, animals feed CFS presented higher mean daily gain and better FC. Animals from CFS took 77 days to reach 35kg BM whereas animals from PFS took 278 days. The ruminal pH was higher, and more adequate, in the PFS group when compared to the CFS group. The CFS lambs presented better quantitative characteristics and conformation, and higher fat deposition. PFS lambs, on the other hand, provided leaner and more muscular carcasses. Thus, the termination of lambs without use of bulky feed is technically feasible and provides better zootechnical performance and carcass characteristics. However, the ruminal pH drop may compromise the system and must be observed.(AU)

Conduziu-se ensaio biológico com 28 cordeiros não castrados, com massa corporal (MC) inicial de 20 kg, distribuídos em dois diferentes sistemas alimentares de terminação: concentrado (STC) ou pastagem (STP). A dieta do STC foi constituída de 77,4% de grãos de milho; 20,2% de farelo de soja; 1,4% de calcário e 1,0% de bicarbonato de sódio. A dieta do STP foi constituída de pastagem nativa e azevém. Os animais permaneceram nos sistemas até atingirem 35 kg de MC. Os parâmetros avaliados foram: consumo de matéria seca (CMS), consumo de matéria orgânica (CMO), consumo de proteína bruta (CPB), consumo de fibra em detergente neutro (CFDN), conversão alimentar (CA), ganho médio diário, dias para atingir 35kg, pH ruminal, medidas biométricas in vivo, composição de carcaça, porcentagem de cortes comerciais, composição da paleta e proporção de componentes corporais. Os animais do SFC apresentaram maior CMS, CMO, CPB e menor CFDN quando comparados com o STP. Ainda os animais do STC apresentaram maior ganho médio diário e melhor CA. Os animais do STC levaram 77 dias para atingir 35kg de MC, enquanto os animais do STP levaram 278 dias. O pH ruminal foi maior e mais adequado no STP que no STP. Os cordeiros do STC apresentaram melhores características quantitativas e conformação, e maior deposição de gordura. Por outro lado, o STP forneceu carcaças mais magras e mais musculosas. Assim, a terminação de cordeiros sem utilização de ração volumosa é tecnicamente viável e proporciona melhor desempenho zootécnico e características de carcaça. Entretanto, a queda do pH ruminal pode comprometer o sistema e deve ser observada.(AU)

Castração de bovinos Nelore na terminação em confinamento / Castration of Nellore cattle in feedlot finishing diets

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o desempenho e características de carcaça de bovinos Nelore castrados e não castrados terminados em confinamento com dieta de alto concentrado. Trinta e seis bovinos machos da raça Nelore com idade de 24 meses, provenientes de recria em sistema de pastejo contínuo, foram divididos em dois grupos de 18 animais (castrados e não castrados) com peso vivo inicial (PVi) médio de 347,5 kg ± 21,61 kg. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, divididos de acordo com o PVi para cada condição sexual avaliada, constituindo desta forma dois tratamentos experimentais: animais castrados e animais não castrados. Cada tratamento foi composto por seis baias (3 animais/baia), sendo estas consideradas as unidades experimentais do estudo. O período de confinamento foi de 112 dias, sendo o abate realizado no 113º dia. Foram avaliados a ingestão de matéria seca (IMS), o ganho de peso diário (GPD), conversão alimentar (CA) e eficiência alimentar (EA). Além disso, foram avaliados a deposição de tecido muscular e adiposo por meio de ultrassonografia. Após o abate dos animais foram determinados o peso de carcaça quente (PCQ), o peso de carcaça fria (PCF) e rendimento de carcaça (RC). Os dados foram analisados utilizando-se o programa PROC MIXED do SAS e teste de Tukey (P ≤ 5%). Não houveram diferenças significativas para as variáveis PVi e IMS em porcentagem de PV. Já as variáveis PVf, GPD, CA e EA apresentaram efeitos significativos, tendo o grupo de animais não castrados melhor desempenho produtivo. Para as avaliações de características de carcaça foram observadas diferenças significativas para PCQ e PCF onde os animais do grupo não castrado também apresentaram melhores pesos de carcaça. Portanto, conclui-se que para sistemas de confinamento com dietas de alto teor de concentrado, a castração de bovinos Nelore não é recomendada, pois interferiu negativamente no desempenho produtivo das carcaças dos animais castrados.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the performance and carcass characteristics of Nelore bulls and steers, finished in feedlot with high concentrate diet. Thirty-six male Nelore cattle with 24 months old, from rearing in a continuous grazing system were divided into two groups of 18 animals (castrated and non-castrated) with initial mean body weight (iBW) of 347.5 kg ± 21.61 kg. The experimental design was a randomized complete block according to iBW for each sexual condition evaluated, constituting two experimental treatments: castrated animals and non-castrated animals. Each treatment consisted of six pens (3 animals/pen), these being considered the experimental units. The feedlot period was 112-days and the slaughter was carried out on the 113th day. The dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion (F:G) and feed efficiency (G:F) were evaluated. In addition, the deposition of muscular and adipose tissue was evaluated by means of ultrasonography. After slaughtering of the animals the hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW) and carcass yield (YG) were determined. The data were analyzed using thePROC MIXED program from SAS and Tukey test (P ≤ 5%). There was no significant difference for the variables iBW and DMI in percentage of BW. The fBW, ADG, F:G and G:F variables had significant effects, and the group of non-castrated animals obtained abetter productive performance. For the carcass traits evaluations, a significant difference was observed for HCW and CCW, where animals from the non-castrated group also had better carcass data. Therefore, it is concluded that for feedlot systems with highconcentrate diets, castration of Nellore cattle is not recommended because it interfered negatively in the productive performance of the castrated animals.

Performance of calves born in different periods of the calving season in intensive beef cattle farming / [Desempenho em pecuária de corte intensiva de progênies nascidas em diferentes períodos da estação de parição]

The objective of this study was to evaluate, for two years, the performance of 124 female and 105 male Braford calves born during the first and second halves of the same calving season and the effects of birth period on the development of males until slaughter, as yearlings, and of females until calving, after having mated at 13-15 months of age. Early-born females were heavier than those born late at weaning (119.3 vs 109.9kg; P<0.05), at the start of the breeding season (275.0 vs 263.0kg; P<0.05), and at the end of the breeding season (300.0 vs 289.5kg; P<0.05), in addition to being more fertile (70 vs 50% pregnancy rate). There was no difference (P>0.05) in the development of males born early in relation to those born late, except for weaning weight, which was higher in the former. Steers born early were ready for slaughter at a younger age (459.6 vs 490.1 days; P<0.05), and both groups (early- and late-born) had a body condition classified as fat (4.21 points). In intensive production systems, both male and female calves perform better if they are born during the first half of the calving season.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar, por dois anos, o desempenho de 124 bezerras e 105 bezerros Braford nascidos durante a primeira e segunda metades da mesma estação, bem como os efeitos do período de nascimento no desenvolvimento dos machos até o abate e das fêmeas até o primeiro parto, após serem acasalados entre 13/15 meses de idade. As fêmeas nascidas precocemente foram mais pesadas do que as nascidas tardiamente ao desmame quando bezerras (119,3 vs. 109,9kg; P<0,05), no início da estação reprodutiva (275,0 vs. 263,0kg; P<0,05) e no final da estação reprodutiva (300,0 vs. 289,5kg; P<0,05), além de terem maior fertilidade (taxa de prenhez 70 vs. 50%). Não houve diferença (P>0,05) no desenvolvimento de bezerros nascidos precocemente em relação aos nascidos mais tardiamente, exceto no peso ao desmame, com superioridade dos primeiros. Os novilhos nascidos mais cedo ficaram prontos para o abate à idade mais jovem (459,6 vs. 490,1 dias; P<0,05), e ambos os grupos (nascidos precoce e tardiamente) tinham uma condição corporal classificada como gordura (4,21 pontos). Em sistemas de produção intensiva, os bezerros machos e fêmeas nascidos precocemente, na primeira metade da estação de parição, possuem melhor desempenho.(AU)

Castração de bovinos Nelore na terminação em confinamento / Castration of Nellore cattle in feedlot finishing diets

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o desempenho e características de carcaça de bovinos Nelore castrados e não castrados terminados em confinamento com dieta de alto concentrado. Trinta e seis bovinos machos da raça Nelore com idade de 24 meses, provenientes de recria em sistema de pastejo contínuo, foram divididos em dois grupos de 18 animais (castrados e não castrados) com peso vivo inicial (PVi) médio de 347,5 kg ± 21,61 kg. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, divididos de acordo com o PVi para cada condição sexual avaliada, constituindo desta forma dois tratamentos experimentais: animais castrados e animais não castrados. Cada tratamento foi composto por seis baias (3 animais/baia), sendo estas consideradas as unidades experimentais do estudo. O período de confinamento foi de 112 dias, sendo o abate realizado no 113º dia. Foram avaliados a ingestão de matéria seca (IMS), o ganho de peso diário (GPD), conversão alimentar (CA) e eficiência alimentar (EA). Além disso, foram avaliados a deposição de tecido muscular e adiposo por meio de ultrassonografia. Após o abate dos animais foram determinados o peso de carcaça quente (PCQ), o peso de carcaça fria (PCF) e rendimento de carcaça (RC). Os dados foram analisados utilizando-se o programa PROC MIXED do SAS e teste de Tukey (P ≤ 5%). Não houveram diferenças significativas para as variáveis PVi e IMS em porcentagem de PV. Já as variáveis PVf, GPD, CA e EA apresentaram efeitos significativos, tendo o grupo de animais não castrados melhor desempenho produtivo. Para as avaliações de características de carcaça foram observadas diferenças significativas para PCQ e PCF onde os animais do grupo não castrado também apresentaram melhores pesos de carcaça. Portanto, conclui-se que para sistemas de confinamento com dietas de alto teor de concentrado, a castração de bovinos Nelore não é recomendada, pois interferiu negativamente no desempenho produtivo das carcaças dos animais castrados.(AU)

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the performance and carcass characteristics of Nelore bulls and steers, finished in feedlot with high concentrate diet. Thirty-six male Nelore cattle with 24 months old, from rearing in a continuous grazing system were divided into two groups of 18 animals (castrated and non-castrated) with initial mean body weight (iBW) of 347.5 kg ± 21.61 kg. The experimental design was a randomized complete block according to iBW for each sexual condition evaluated, constituting two experimental treatments: castrated animals and non-castrated animals. Each treatment consisted of six pens (3 animals/pen), these being considered the experimental units. The feedlot period was 112-days and the slaughter was carried out on the 113th day. The dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion (F:G) and feed efficiency (G:F) were evaluated. In addition, the deposition of muscular and adipose tissue was evaluated by means of ultrasonography. After slaughtering of the animals the hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW) and carcass yield (YG) were determined. The data were analyzed using thePROC MIXED program from SAS and Tukey test (P ≤ 5%). There was no significant difference for the variables iBW and DMI in percentage of BW. The fBW, ADG, F:G and G:F variables had significant effects, and the group of non-castrated animals obtained abetter productive performance. For the carcass traits evaluations, a significant difference was observed for HCW and CCW, where animals from the non-castrated group also had better carcass data. Therefore, it is concluded that for feedlot systems with highconcentrate diets, castration of Nellore cattle is not recommended because it interfered negatively in the productive performance of the castrated animals.(AU)

Meat quality of Maremmana young bulls

Maremmana is a local Italian breed reared in southern Tuscany and northern Latium. Twenty-two young bulls were reared in pasture system with concentrate supply (PSCS), whereas 20 young bulls were reared in feedlot intensive system (IS) in order test differences between meat typologies. The bulls were slaughtered at 18 months old. The performances at slaughtering were similar between finishing systems. IS bull meat has shown higher cooking loss than PSCS bull meat (p < 0.001), higher moisture content (p < 0.01), and fat (p < 0.001), and lower crude protein (p < 0.001). The SFA, MUFA and PUFA percentage were similar between meat typologies; whereas if considered in mg per 100 gr of muscle MUFA and SFA content was higher in PSCS meat (p < 0.05). Among the Healthy Indices, C18:2/C18:3 was higher in IS System (14.08 vs. 9.77; p < 0.001); the results of the PCA (Principal Component Analysis) of fatty acids composition showed that PSCS meat was characterized by MUFA and SFA, while IS meat was identified by C18:2/C18:3, and ω6/ ω3.(AU)

Meat quality of Maremmana young bulls

Maremmana is a local Italian breed reared in southern Tuscany and northern Latium. Twenty-two young bulls were reared in pasture system with concentrate supply (PSCS), whereas 20 young bulls were reared in feedlot intensive system (IS) in order test differences between meat typologies. The bulls were slaughtered at 18 months old. The performances at slaughtering were similar between finishing systems. IS bull meat has shown higher cooking loss than PSCS bull meat (p < 0.001), higher moisture content (p < 0.01), and fat (p < 0.001), and lower crude protein (p < 0.001). The SFA, MUFA and PUFA percentage were similar between meat typologies; whereas if considered in mg per 100 gr of muscle MUFA and SFA content was higher in PSCS meat (p < 0.05). Among the Healthy Indices, C18:2/C18:3 was higher in IS System (14.08 vs. 9.77; p < 0.001); the results of the PCA (Principal Component Analysis) of fatty acids composition showed that PSCS meat was characterized by MUFA and SFA, while IS meat was identified by C18:2/C18:3, and ω6/ ω3.

In vivo biometry and carcass characteristics of lambs in different finishing systems / Biometria in vivo e características de carcaça de cordeiros em diferentes sistemas de terminação

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of different finishing systems on the in vivo measurements, quantitative and qualitative carcass characteristics, commercial cut ratio, and shoulder tissue composition of lambs. Thirty-two male lambs were distributed in four finishing systems with eight replications each, as follows: suckling lambs on pasture; suckling lambs in confinement, with access to creep-feeding containing corn bran and soybean meal; weaned lambs fed roughage, characterized by ad libitum supply of alfalfa hay; and weaned lambs fed concentrate, composed of oat grain and soybeanmeal. The lambs were slaughtered as they reached the pre-set live weight at slaughtering of 30 kg. Most of the in vivo biometry variables were not significant (P > 0.05) when comparing the finishing systems, except for hindlimb height and thoracic perimeter. Regarding the quantitative carcass characteristics, all variables differed (P < 0.05) between systems, except for carcass length, leg width, and subcutaneous fat thickness. For the qualitative carcass characteristics, only the fatness and carcass conformation presented significant differences (P < 0.05). Most in vivo measurements and the proportion of carcass cuts were not influenced by finishing systems. Weaned lambs fed an exclusive concentrate diet presented leaner carcasses with an inferior conformation when compared to the other finishing systems. Suckling lambs in confinement presented shoulders with a higher fat deposition when compared to those weaned. Suckling lambs both on pasture and in confinement presented a superiority in the quantitative carcass characteristics when compared to weaned lambs.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a influência dos diferentes sistemas de terminação sobre as mensurações in vivo, as características quantitativas e qualitativas da carcaça, a proporção dos cortes comerciais e a composição tecidual da paleta de cordeiros. Foram utilizados 32 cordeiros machos, distribuídos em quatro sistemas de terminação com oito repetições cada, conforme a seguir: cordeiros lactentes em pastagem; cordeiros lactentes em confinamento, com acesso ao creep-feeding contendo farelo de milho e soja; cordeiros desmamados com volumoso, caracterizado pelo fornecimento ad libitum de feno de alfafa; e cordeiros desmamados com concentrado, composto por grão de aveia e farelo de soja. Os cordeiros foram abatidos à medida que atingiram o peso vivo de abate pré-estabelecido de30 kg. A maioria das variáveis de biometria in vivo não foram significativas (P > 0,05) entre os sistemas de terminação, com exceção da altura do posterior e do perímetro torácico. Quanto às características quantitativas da carcaça, todas a variáveis foram diferentes (P < 0,05) entre os sistemas, exceto o comprimento de carcaça, a largura de perna e a espessura de gordura subcutânea. Para as características qualitativas da carcaça, apenas o estado de engorduramento e a conformação apresentaram diferenças significativas (P < 0,05). A maioria das mensurações in vivo e as proporções dos cortes da carcaça não sofreram influência dos sistemas de terminação. Os cordeiros desmamados com dieta exclusiva de concentrado, apresentaram carcaças magras com conformação inferior aos demais sistemas determinação. Os cordeiros lactentes em confinamento apresentaram paletas com maior deposição de gordura do que os desmamados. Tanto cordeiros lactentes em pastagem, quanto em confinamento, apresentaram superioridade nas características quantitativas da carcaça em relação aos cordeiros desmamados.(AU)

Influence of lamb finishing system on animal performance and meat quality

This study aimed to assess the influence of lamb finishing systems on zootechnical performance, as well as on carcass and meat quality. The experiment was conducted at the APTAs experimental farm. Thirty-three lambs were used - both sexes, initial age of 90 ± 3 days, Texel with Santa Inês, each animal being one experimental unit, with 6 males and 5 females per treatment. Treatments consisted of: lambs finished on pasture, in semi-feedlot or in feedlot. The lambs were slaughtered with average live weight of 35 kg. Weight gain and carcass measures were taken by ultrasound. After slaughter, carcass conformation and yield, pH, temperature, color, water retention capacity and tenderness were measured. Animals finished on pasture had lower weight gain, were slaughtered at an older age, with lighter carcass weight, smaller loin area, lower shank compactness index, besides lighter shoulder and shank weights, compared to the other production systems (p < 0.05). There was no difference between the semi-feedlot and the feedlot systems for the assessed characteristics. In conclusion, production systems affect animal performance, as well as carcass and meat quality, especially when it comes to important production aspects, such as slaughter age and yield of premium cuts.(AU)

Influence of lamb finishing system on animal performance and meat quality

This study aimed to assess the influence of lamb finishing systems on zootechnical performance, as well as on carcass and meat quality. The experiment was conducted at the APTA’s experimental farm. Thirty-three lambs were used - both sexes, initial age of 90 ± 3 days, Texel with Santa Inês, each animal being one experimental unit, with 6 males and 5 females per treatment. Treatments consisted of: lambs finished on pasture, in semi-feedlot or in feedlot. The lambs were slaughtered with average live weight of 35 kg. Weight gain and carcass measures were taken by ultrasound. After slaughter, carcass conformation and yield, pH, temperature, color, water retention capacity and tenderness were measured. Animals finished on pasture had lower weight gain, were slaughtered at an older age, with lighter carcass weight, smaller loin area, lower shank compactness index, besides lighter shoulder and shank weights, compared to the other production systems (p < 0.05). There was no difference between the semi-feedlot and the feedlot systems for the assessed characteristics. In conclusion, production systems affect animal performance, as well as carcass and meat quality, especially when it comes to important production aspects, such as slaughter age and yield of premium cuts.

Produção e conforto térmico de bovinos da raça Nelore terminados em sistemas integrados de produção agropecuária / Production and thermal comfort of Nellore beef cattle finished in integrated crop-livestock systems

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a pastagem, o desempenho, o conforto térmico e os parâmetros hematológicos de bovinos Nelore na fase de terminação em sistemas integrados de produção agropecuária com duas densidades de árvores (ILPF-1L= 196 árvores ha-1 e ILPF-3L=448 árvores ha-1) e em pleno sol (ILP). Foram avaliados a massa e a composição morfológica da forragem, o ganho médio diário, o ganho de peso por área e a taxa de lotação no verão e no outono, bem como as variáveis climáticas dos sistemas em três horários e parâmetros hematológicos dos animais (n=60). A massa de forragem foi superior no tratamento ILP e no verão (P<0,05). Porém, a redução da massa de forragem nos sistemas ILPFs não interferiu no desempenho dos animais (P>0,05). A temperatura ambiente, a temperatura do globo e o índice de temperatura e umidade foram melhores nos tratamentos com sombreamento e no período da manhã, proporcionando maior conforto aos animais, sendo ainda confirmado pelo menor volume globular dos bovinos em ILP (P<0,05). Conclui-se que os sistemas com componente arbóreo diminuem a massa de forragem, mas essa redução não altera o desempenho dos animais na fase de terminação. Além disso, os sistemas ILPFs melhoram o conforto térmico, entretanto essa melhora não foi suficiente para favorecer o desempenho.(AU)

The objective of this work was to evaluate pasture, performace, thermal comfort, and haematological parameters of Nellore cattle in the finishing phase in integrated crop-livestock systems with two tree densities (ICLF-1L= 196 ha -1 trees and ICLF-3L= 448 ha -1 trees) and in full sun (ICL). The forage mass morphological composition of the pasture average daily gain, weight gain per area, stocking rate of the animals were evaluated in summer and autumn, and the climatic variables of systems we evaluated at three different times, and haematological parameters of the animals (n= 60). The forage mass was higher in the ICL treatment and summer (P<0.05). However, the reduction of the forage mass in the ILPFs systems did not interfere with the performance of the animals (P>0.05). Ambient temperature, globe temperature and temperature and humidity index were better in shade treatments and in the morning, providing greater comfort to the animals, and was also confirmed by the lower globular volume of the bovines in ICL (P<0.05). It is concluded that the systems with trees reduce the forage mass but this reduction does not alter the animals' performance in the finishing phase. In addition, ICLFs improve the thermal comfort of the animals, however, this improvement was not enough to favor their performance.(AU)