Influence of irrigation and supplementation on performance and ingestive behavior of beef cattle on mixed grass pastures

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of beef cattle with two levels of energy-protein supplementation of low-consumption on African Bermudagrass pasture, overseeded in winter with oat and ryegrass, with or without irrigation. Twenty-four castrated Angus steers (11 months old and had an initial average of 220 kg body weight (BW)) were used in experimental area of 3.6 ha. The experiment was completely randomized in a 2×2 factorial design, with three replicates. The evaluation period was 249 days (July/2019 to March/2020). The treatments were: irrigated pasture with supplementation of 1 g/kg BW or 2.7 g/kg BW and non-irrigated pasture with 1 g/kg BW of supplement or 2.7 g/kg BW. The grazing method was continuous with a variable stocking rate. Irrigation provided pastures with better chemical composition in winter and spring. Irrigation increased the daily accumulation rate in winter (84.6 vs. 45.9 kg DM/ha/day), providing a greater stocking rate (1,702 vs. 1,385 kg/ha) and, consequently, body weight gain per hectare. Supplementation of 2.7 g/kg BW provided a greater stocking rate in winter (1,652 vs. 1,435 kg/ha) and spring (3,096 vs. 2,811 kg/ha), not changing in summer. The association of irrigation and supplementation of 2.7 vs. 1.0 g/kg BW improves the intake pattern by the animal in summer without changing productivity parameters. Irrigation increases productivity and the nutritional value of pasture with higher livestock production per area in periods of water deficit. The supply of 2.7 vs. 1.0 g/kg BW provides a greater stocking rate and body weight gain per hectare.(AU)

Legume inclusion or nitrogen fertilization on Aruana grass overseeded with temperate grasses: Performance, carcass characteristics, and fatty acid profile of the meat of beef steers

The objective of our study was to evaluate the effect of the use of legume (Arachis pintoi) or nitrogen fertilization on animal performance, characteristics of carcass and meat, and fatty acids profile of crossbred steers on Megathyrsus maximus cv. Aruana pasture, overseeded with temperate grasses. The experimental design was completely randomized, with three treatments and three replicates. The experiment was carried out from June to October (127 d). The treatments were: Low-N: 100 kg of N/ha; Medium-N: 200 kg of N/ha; and Legume: Arachis pintoi + 100 kg of N/ha. The pasture with higher nitrogen fertilization (N200) showed a more significant forage mass yield. The mixed grass with legumes presented a higher concentration of saturated fatty acids and saturated:unsaturated ratio in the meat. However, the grass pastures resulted in a higher content of unsaturated fatty acids in the meat. The other pasture variables, and characteristics of carcass and meat were not influenced by the treatments. The increase in nitrogen fertilization, from 100 to 200 kg/ha, and Arachis pintoi mixed with Aruana grass pasture overseeded with black oat and ryegrass does not affect the daily weight gain and the carcass and meat characteristics of the steers. The grass-legume mixture decreases the total concentration of unsaturated fatty acids in meat without influencing the concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids.(AU)

Growth performance and meat quality of feedlot steers fed diets with or without natural feed additive

The objective of this study was to evaluate the growth performance and meat quality of feedlot Aberdeen Angus steers fed high-concentrate diets with or without a natural feed additive composed of a mixture of yeasts and essential oils (EO). A completely randomized design with two diets (with or without natural feed additive) and 12 replicates was used. Twenty-four steers with initial shrunk body weight of 402.62±48.2 kg and average age of 18±2.0 months were used. Steers were fed ad libitum a diet containing 777.3 g of concentrate/kg dry matter (DM) and 222.7 g of corn silage/kg DM for 74 days. The mixture of yeast and EO was supplied at the rate of 10.0 and 0.117 g/animal/day, respectively. Average daily weight gain and feed efficiency in the adaptation period was greater in animals fed natural feed additive; however, there was no difference for the total experimental period. Dry matter intake, carcass weight, carcass yield, proportion of carcass bone, carcass muscle + fat:bone ratio, round thickness, and arm length were not altered by treatments. The inclusion of a natural feed additive in the diet increased the cooling loss (0.98 vs. 1.25%), proportion of carcass muscle (51.32 vs. 54.56%), carcass muscle:fat ratio (1.70 vs. 2.11%), leg length (68.79 vs. 70.71 cm), and arm perimeter (36.70 vs. 37.88 cm) and reduced the proportion of carcass fat (30.17 vs. 25.92%). Carcass length was greater in animals fed the diet with a natural feed additive. Meat color, texture, and marbling were not altered by treatments. The addition of natural feed additive to high concentrate diets does not alter the productive performance of feedlot Aberdeen Angus steers, although it can increase the proportion of lean meat of carcasses.(AU)

Single and split nitrogen application on the forage yield, morphogenesis, chemical composition, and tissue nitrogen fractions of Cynodon nlemfuensis under mob grazing / Aplicação de nitrogênio em dose única ou parcelada na produção de forragem, morfogênese, composição química e frações de nitrogênio tecidual de Cynodon nlemfuensis sob pastejo

The aim of this study was to evaluate the forage production, nutritional value (including protein fractions), and morphogenic characteristics of African star grass on nitrogen fertilizer in a single application and split applications of two and four, under mob grazing. The study was conducted on a 1.5 ha area with wellestablished African star grass (Cynodon nlemfuensis). The area was divided into 18 paddocks of 400 m2. for three treatments and six replications that were assigned through a randomized block design. The treatments were: Nap1 =Single N application; Nap2= split into two N applications; and Nap4: split into four N applications. Fertilizer application was 200 kg ha-1 of N in topdressing. Pasture was monitored weekly by sward height. Grazing began when the forage reached between 25 and 30 cm in height and ceased at 10 cm. In almost all months evaluated, Nap1 recorded the highest forage production, daily accumulation rate and available forage mass. Some morphogenic characteristics changed between the fertilization strategies, particularly in the months with greater water availability. The chemical composition did not fluctuate between treatments. African star grass can be fertilized with a single application of nitrogen at 200 kg ha-1 to attain greater forage mass and proportion of leaves, without any changes to the chemical composition and nitrogen fractions. These components were modified by the vegetative phase of the forage.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a produção de forragem, o valor nutricional, frações protéicas e as características morfogênicas da grama estrela africana estabelecida (Cynodon nlemfuensis) sob adubação nitrogenada parcelada em duas, quatro ou em uma única aplicação. O estudo foi conduzido em uma área de 1,5 ha, que foi dividida em 18 piquetes de 400 m2. O experimento foi delineado estatisticamente em blocos ao acaso, constando de três tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos corresponderam a aplicação de 200 kg ha-1 de N em cobertura na forma de ureia: Nap1 = aplicação única; Nap2 = parcelado em duas aplicações; e Nap4: parcelado em quatro aplicações. A pastagem foi monitorada semanalmente a partir da medição da altura do pasto. O rebaixamento da pastagem foi realizado por novilhas leiteiras da raça holandesa com 12 meses de idade. Os animais entravam nas parcelas quando a pastagem apresentava altura de 25 a 30 cm e saiam com 10 cm. Em quase todos os meses avaliados, Nap1 apresentou a maior produção de forragem, taxa de acúmulo diário e massa de forragem disponível. Algumas características morfogênicas mudaram entre as estratégias de fertilização, principalmente nos meses de maior disponibilidade hídrica. A composição química não oscilou entre os tratamentos. O capim-estrela africano pode ser fertilizado com uma única aplicação de nitrogênio de 200 kg ha-1 para obter maior quantidade de forragem e proporção de folhas, sem alteração da composição química e das frações do nitrogênio. Esses componentes foram modificados apenas pelo ciclo vegetativo da forragem foram modificados apenas pelo ciclo vegetativo da forragem.(AU)

Intramuscular fatty acid composition of steers finished on oat pastures mixture with vetch or cornmeal supplementation / Composição de ácidos graxos da gordura intramuscular de novilhos terminados em pastagem de aveia consorciada com ervilhaca ou suplementados com grão de milho moído

The effects of energetic supplementation and mixture vetch (Vica sativa L.) were studied to evaluate the intramuscular fatty acid profile of steers finished on oat (Avena sativa L.) pastures. Eighteen 21-month-old crossbred steers were evaluated. The experiment was carried out in three treatments and six repetitions: oat pasture (OA), oat pasture + vetch (OA + VET), and oat pasture + supplementation (OA + SUP). Supplementation comprised the addition of corn meal at a daily dose of 1% of the animals body weight. Steers receiving supplementation had higher lipid content in Longissimus lumborum than did those fed with OA + VET (1.25 vs 1.02%), whereas those fed with OA (1.15%) showed intermediate values. Conjugated linoleic acid levels were higher in steers fed OA (0.57%) and OA + SUP (0.59%), whereas the highest amount of omega-3 fatty acids was observed in animals fed OA + VET (3.32%). Pasture-finishing without supplementation resulted in a lower ratio of n-6:n-3 (3.14). Steers finished in oat mixture with vetch showed healthier intramuscular fat than did those finished with cornmeal supplementation; importantly, the higher the amount of PUFAs, the better n-6:n-3 ratio.(AU)

Os efeitos da suplementação energética e da ervilhaca (Vica sativa L.) foram estudados para avaliar o perfil de ácidos graxos intramusculares de novilhos terminados em pastagens de aveia (Avena sativa L.). Foram avaliados 18 novilhos mestiços com 21 meses de idade. O experimento foi realizado em três tratamentos e seis repetições: pastagem de aveia (OA), pastagem de aveia + ervilhaca (OA + VET) e pastagem de aveia + suplementação (OA + SUP). A suplementação compreendeu a adição de fubá na dose diária de 1% do peso corporal dos animais. Os novilhos que receberam suplementação apresentaram maior teor lipídico no Longissimus lombar do que aqueles alimentados com OA + VET (1,25 contra 1,02%), enquanto aqueles alimentados com AO (1,15%) apresentaram valores intermediários. Os níveis de ácido linoléico conjugado foram maiores em novilhos alimentados com AO (0,57%) e OA + SUP (0,59%), enquanto a maior quantidade de ácidos graxos ômega-3 foi observada em animais alimentados com OA + VET (3,32%). Animais terminados em pastagens sem suplementação apresentaram menor proporção de n-6: n-3 (3,14). Novilhos terminados em pastagem de aveia com ervilhaca apresentaram gordura intramuscular mais saudável do que aqueles terminados com suplementação de milho moído, uma vez que apresentaram maior quantidade de PUFAs e melhor a relação n-6: n-3.(AU)

Intramuscular fatty acid composition of steers finished on oat pastures mixture with vetch or cornmeal supplementation / Composição de ácidos graxos da gordura intramuscular de novilhos terminados em pastagem de aveia consorciada com ervilhaca ou suplementados com grão de milho moído

ABSTRACT: The effects of energetic supplementation and mixture vetch (Vica sativa L.) were studied to evaluate the intramuscular fatty acid profile of steers finished on oat (Avena sativa L.) pastures. Eighteen 21-month-old crossbred steers were evaluated. The experiment was carried out in three treatments and six repetitions: oat pasture (OA), oat pasture + vetch (OA + VET), and oat pasture + supplementation (OA + SUP). Supplementation comprised the addition of corn meal at a daily dose of 1% of the animals' body weight. Steers receiving supplementation had higher lipid content in Longissimus lumborum than did those fed with OA + VET (1.25 vs 1.02%), whereas those fed with OA (1.15%) showed intermediate values. Conjugated linoleic acid levels were higher in steers fed OA (0.57%) and OA + SUP (0.59%), whereas the highest amount of omega-3 fatty acids was observed in animals fed OA + VET (3.32%). Pasture-finishing without supplementation resulted in a lower ratio of n-6:n-3 (3.14). Steers finished in oat mixture with vetch showed healthier intramuscular fat than did those finished with cornmeal supplementation; importantly, the higher the amount of PUFAs, the better n-6:n-3 ratio.

RESUMO: Os efeitos da suplementação energética e da ervilhaca (Vica sativa L.) foram estudados para avaliar o perfil de ácidos graxos intramusculares de novilhos terminados em pastagens de aveia (Avena sativa L.). Foram avaliados 18 novilhos mestiços com 21 meses de idade. O experimento foi realizado em três tratamentos e seis repetições: pastagem de aveia (OA), pastagem de aveia + ervilhaca (OA + VET) e pastagem de aveia + suplementação (OA + SUP). A suplementação compreendeu a adição de fubá na dose diária de 1% do peso corporal dos animais. Os novilhos que receberam suplementação apresentaram maior teor lipídico no Longissimus lombar do que aqueles alimentados com OA + VET (1,25 contra 1,02%), enquanto aqueles alimentados com AO (1,15%) apresentaram valores intermediários. Os níveis de ácido linoléico conjugado foram maiores em novilhos alimentados com AO (0,57%) e OA + SUP (0,59%), enquanto a maior quantidade de ácidos graxos ômega-3 foi observada em animais alimentados com OA + VET (3,32%). Animais terminados em pastagens sem suplementação apresentaram menor proporção de n-6: n-3 (3,14). Novilhos terminados em pastagem de aveia com ervilhaca apresentaram gordura intramuscular mais saudável do que aqueles terminados com suplementação de milho moído, uma vez que apresentaram maior quantidade de PUFAs e melhor a relação n-6: n-3.

Slaughter body weights of Jersey young bulls finished on feedlot

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of slaughter body weight (SW) on the performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of Jersey bulls in feedlots from weaning to slaughter. Eighteen Jersey bulls (125.7±15.9 kg; 5±0.6 months old) were used in the study. The treatments corresponded to three slaughter-weights: L360 ­ light weight, SW of 360 kg, M390 ­ medium weight, SW of 390 kg, and H420 ­ heavy weight, SW of 420 kg (n = 6/treatment); the animals were slaughtered at 368, 392, and 422 kg, respectively. The average daily gain was not influenced by SW. The M390 and H420 groups remained in feedlot, on average, 6 and 51 d longer, respectively, to reach a similar SW in relation to the L360 group. The increase in SW did not influence dry matter intake. However, the L360 group exhibited greater dry matter intake relative to body weight compared with the other two groups (29 vs. 26 g/kg). The increase in SW resulted in heavier and longer carcasses, with higher hot carcass yields. However, animals with greater SW had lower fat thickness. In addition, the increase in SW led to greater pistol cut, bone, and muscle weight for the carcasses. Although the meat color of Jersey bulls was darker in the H420 group, the meat was considered softer and more palatable by the consumer panel compared with the meat from the L360 group. The L360 group exhibited less fluid loss during thawing and cooking. Shear force measured by Warner Blatzer Shear was lower for H420. Animals slaughtered in the L390 group had an intermediate carcass weight, similar carcass yield, better cover fat and meat quality (color and shear) than animals slaughtered in the H420. Combining these factors with a shorter feedlot time compared with that of heavier animals, the SW of feedlot Jersey bulls is recommended at 390 kg.(AU)

Inherent auction factors that affect the selling price of calves

This study was performed to determine and quantify the inherent auction factors that affect the selling price of beef calves (weanlings - from six to nine months old). Data on the selling price, location and month of the auction, genetic group, lot size live weight, and sex of animals were collected in 148 auctions from January 2004 to December 2014. A total of 4,312 lots corresponding to 48,588 calves were classified into seven genetic groups according to their phenotypic characteristics. The values were deflated using the General Price index (IGP-DI) inflation index and met the parametric assumptions. The selling price was standardized by the yearly median, assuming that its value corresponds to 100%, and the other values varied in their function. Path analysis quantified the direct and indirect effects of the variables taken as explanatory of the selling price, followed by regression analysis and Tukey test. Overall, the direct effect of the average weight was the highest (0.7), followed by sex (0.38). The smallest direct effect was the genetic group (−0.075). There was a growing exponential relationship between average weight of the lot and selling price and a decreasing ratio between price per kilo and the average weight of the lot (−0.0003 percentage points per kilogram). Males were generally 15.7% more valued than females. The British × Zebuine crossbreed was the most valued breed, followed by the British breed (8.9 and 3.6%, respectively). The highest premium was in November, followed by February (9.57 and 8.84%, respectively, compared with median year). The selling price increases linearly by 0.3284 percentage points for each additional animal in the lot. The average weight of the lot was found to be the most important variable in the formation of the selling price, followed by the sex of the animals.(AU)

Fermentação e composição bromatológica da silagem de cana-de-açúcar inoculada com Lactobacillus buchneri, associada ou não à adição de fontes de carboidratos / Fermentation and bromatological composition of silage of sugarcane inoculated with Lactobacillus buchneri, with or without the addition of carbohydrate sources

Avaliaram-se os aspectos fermentativos e bromatológicos da silagem de cana-de-açúcar com adição de inoculante à base de Lactobacillus buchneri, associado ou não à adição de farelo de trigo (20%), de casca de soja (20%) ou à mistura de farelo de trigo (10%) + casca de soja (20%), utilizando delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições. Não foram observados efeitos significativos dos tratamentos sobre o pH da silagem, porém, observou-se temperatura mais elevada no tratamento contendo 10% de farelo de trigo + 10% de farelo de soja em relação aos tratamentos controle, CA e CCS20. A adição de fontes de carboidratos proporcionou aumento médio de 145,86 kg de MV/m3 nos valores de massa específica e, juntamente com a adição de inoculante biológico, recuperação de matéria seca em média 20,5% superior ao da silagem controle, além de elevar os teores de matéria seca em média 2,63% e de proteína bruta em 1,92%. Conclui-se que, isoladamente, a adição do inoculante biológico foi capaz apenas de reduzir as perdas do processo fermentativo em relação à silagem controle e que a adição de fontes de carboidratos, tanto casca de soja como farelo de trigo, melhora o valor nutritivo da silagem de cana-de-açúcar.(AU)

It was evaluated the fermentative and bromatological aspects of sugarcane silage with addition of Lactobacillus buchneri inoculant with or without the addition of wheat bran (20%), soybean hull (20%) or the mixture of wheat bran (10%) + soybean hull (20%), using a completely randomized design with four replicates. No significant effects of the treatments on the pH of the silage were observed, however, a higher temperature was observed in the treatment containing 10% of wheat bran + 10% of soybean meal in relation to the control treatment. The addition of carbohydrate sources provided an average increase of 145,86 kg of MV/m3 in the specific mass values and, together with the addition of biological inoculant, dry matter recovery averaged 20,5% higher than the control silage, in addition to increasing the dry matter contents in an average of 2,63% and crude protein in 1,92%. It is concluded that, in isolation, the addition of the biological inoculant was only able to reduce losses of the fermentative process in relation to the control silage and that the addition of carbohydrate sources, both soybean peel and wheat bran, improve the nutritive value of the cane silage.(AU)

Backgrounding steers on temperate grasses mixed with vetch and/or using energy supplementation.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to evaluate backgrounding beef steers on oat + ryegrass pastures mixed with vetch and/or using energy supplementation. METHODS: A randomized block design with three treatments and three replications was used. The treatments were: grass + supplement (oat + ryegrass + supplementation), legume + supplement (oat + ryegrass + vetch + supplementation) and grass + legume (oat + ryegrass + vetch). A continuous grazing system with a variable stocking rate was used. Twenty-seven intact crossbred steers (1/4 Marchigiana, 1/4 Aberdeen Angus and 2/4 Nellore) aged 7 months old and average weight of 190 kg were used. Steers were supplemented at 1% of the body weight of ground corn. The experiment lasted 84 days, between May and August 2014. Behavioral assessments were performed two times per experimental period, for 24 hours. RESULTS: The forage mass was different between treatments, being greater for steers fed without legume. The accumulation rate, forage allowance, and stocking rate did not differ between treatments due to the adequate adjustment of forage allowance. The final weight of animals, as well as the dry matter intake (kg/d), did not differ between treatments. However, forage intake was higher for non-supplemented animals in relation to supplemented steers. Supplement intake did not alter the total digestible nutrient intake due to pasture quality. Animals fed grass + supplement had higher live weight gain per area than those fed grass + legume. Animals without supplementation spent more time in grazing. CONCLUSION: Feeding behavior was not altered by mixing with vetch or supplementation. Non-supplemented animals started the grazing peak earlier and spent more time in grazing than those supplemented; however, the average daily gain was similar between treatments. The live weight gain per hectare was 47% higher in pastures in which the animals received supplementation compared with those mixed with vetch, a consequence of the substitutive effect.

Fermentação e composição bromatológica da silagem de cana-de-açúcar inoculada com Lactobacillus buchneri, associada ou não à adição de fontes de carboidratos / Fermentation and bromatological composition of silage of sugarcane inoculated with Lactobacillus buchneri, with or without the addition of carbohydrate sources

Avaliaram-se os aspectos fermentativos e bromatológicos da silagem de cana-de-açúcar com adição de inoculante à base de Lactobacillus buchneri, associado ou não à adição de farelo de trigo (20%), de casca de soja (20%) ou à mistura de farelo de trigo (10%) + casca de soja (20%), utilizando delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições. Não foram observados efeitos significativos dos tratamentos sobre o pH da silagem, porém, observou-se temperatura mais elevada no tratamento contendo 10% de farelo de trigo + 10% de farelo de soja em relação aos tratamentos controle, CA e CCS20. A adição de fontes de carboidratos proporcionou aumento médio de 145,86 kg de MV/m3 nos valores de massa específica e, juntamente com a adição de inoculante biológico, recuperação de matéria seca em média 20,5% superior ao da silagem controle, além de elevar os teores de matéria seca em média 2,63% e de proteína bruta em 1,92%. Conclui-se que, isoladamente, a adição do inoculante biológico foi capaz apenas de reduzir as perdas do processo fermentativo em relação à silagem controle e que a adição de fontes de carboidratos, tanto casca de soja como farelo de trigo, melhora o valor nutritivo da silagem de cana-de-açúcar.

It was evaluated the fermentative and bromatological aspects of sugarcane silage with addition of Lactobacillus buchneri inoculant with or without the addition of wheat bran (20%), soybean hull (20%) or the mixture of wheat bran (10%) + soybean hull (20%), using a completely randomized design with four replicates. No significant effects of the treatments on the pH of the silage were observed, however, a higher temperature was observed in the treatment containing 10% of wheat bran + 10% of soybean meal in relation to the control treatment. The addition of carbohydrate sources provided an average increase of 145,86 kg of MV/m3 in the specific mass values and, together with the addition of biological inoculant, dry matter recovery averaged 20,5% higher than the control silage, in addition to increasing the dry matter contents in an average of 2,63% and crude protein in 1,92%. It is concluded that, in isolation, the addition of the biological inoculant was only able to reduce losses of the fermentative process in relation to the control silage and that the addition of carbohydrate sources, both soybean peel and wheat bran, improve the nutritive value of the cane silage.

Production and quality of Tifton 85 pastures overseeded with black oat: effects of irrigation and nitrogen fertilization / Produção e qualidade de pastagens de Tifton 85 sobressemeadas com aveia preta: efeitos da irrigação e adubação nitrogenada

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of irrigation and nitrogen fertilization on the bromatological quality, forage production, and botanical and structural composition of Tifton 85 (Cynodon sp.) pastures overseeded with black oat (Avena strigosa). Four treatments were evaluated in a 2 × 2 factorial scheme (irrigated and non-irrigated × fertilized and non-fertilized), with three replicates, in a completely randomized design. In irrigated paddocks, the irrigation system was activated when the soil matric potential reached a value equal to, or higher than, 10 kPa and 135 kg N ha-¹ was applied to fertilized paddocks, divided into four applications. The forage mass pre- and post-grazing, total forage production, and the botanical, structural, and bromatological composition of the pastures were evaluated. No interaction was observed between the irrigation and nitrogen fertilization factors for any of the variables and no significant differences were observed in forage mass between pre- and post-grazing or in Tifton leaf and stem percentages. Nitrogen fertilization had a significant effect on forage production, which was 2626.41 kg dry matter (DM) ha-¹ higher in fertilized pastures than in unfertilized pastures. In addition, fertilization resulted in a lower percentage of dead material (6.66%), higher percentage of oat leaves (30.84%), higher leaf:stem ratio (1:45), higher crude protein content (24.13%), lower levels of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (64.57%) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) (32.86%), and higher in vitro dry matter digestibility (73.01%) than in unfertilized pastures. The use of irrigation did not influence total forage production, however, it resulted in pastures with lower NDF (65.97%) and ADF (33.54%), and higher in vitro dry matter digestibility (73.48%) than unirrigated pastures. Nitrogen fertilization produced improvements in pasture structure, associated with higher dry matter yield and bromatological...(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da irrigação e a adubação nitrogenada sobre a qualidade bromatológica, produção de forragem e a composição botânica e estrutural de pastagens de Tifton 85 (Cynodon sp.) sobressemeadas com aveia preta (Avena strigosa). Foram avaliados quatro tratamentos em um esquema fatorial 2x2 (irrigado e não irrigado x adubado e não adubado), com três repetições, no delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Em piquetes irrigados o sistema de irrigação foi acionado quando o potencial mátrico do solo atingia o valor igual ou superior a 10 kPa e em piquetes adubados foram aplicados 135 kg N ha-¹, dividido em quatro aplicações. Foram avaliadas a massa de forragem no pré e pós pastejo, a produção total de forragem, a composição botânica, estrutural e bromatológica das pastagens. Não foram observadas interação entre os fatores irrigação e adubação nitrogenada para nenhuma das variáveis e nem diferenças significativas para os valores da massa de forragem no pré e pós pastejo e nas porcentagens de folhas e colmo de Tifton. Houve efeito da adubação nitrogenada sobre a produção de forragem, onde proporcionou incremento de 2.626,41 kg MS ha-¹. Além disso, a adubação proporcionou menor porcentagem de material morto (6,66%), maior porcentagem de folhas de aveia (30,84%), maior relação folha:colmo (1,45), maior teor de proteína bruta (PB) (24,13%), menores teores de fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) (64,57%) e fibra em detergente ácido (FDA) (32,86%) e maior digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (73,01%). O uso da irrigação não influenciou a produção total de forragem, porém, proporcionou pastagens com menores teores de FDN (65,97%) e FDA (33,54%) e maior digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (73,48%). A adubação nitrogenada proporcionou melhorias na estrutura das pastagens, associadas à maior produção de matéria seca e melhor qualidade bromatológica, enquanto que a irrigação apenas proporcionou pastagens com menores teores de fibras e...(AU)

Influence of subcutaneous fat thickness on the carcass characteristics and meat quality of beef cattle / Influência da espessura da gordura subcutânea nas características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de bovinos

ABSTRACT: The objective of this research was to examine the effect of subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT) on carcass characteristics and meat quality in 24-month-old British and crossbred British steers finished in feedlot systems. It was assessed using meta-analysis performed on data that was extracted from 46 published studies and comprising a total of 2,695 experimental units. We found that SFT was influenced by and increased linearly with hot carcass weights (HCWs) and cold carcass weights (CCWs) and their yields; moreover, the bone fraction decreased whereas the muscle and fat fractions increased with higher levels of SFT. No significant differences were detected in meat quality variables. Thus, SFT appeared to have a direct influence on HCW, CCW, and the weight and yield of bone, muscle, and fat of castrated steers. A uniform fat thickness level of 6.0 mm SFT was determined to be the standard of quality of carcasses and meat products for consumers.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da espessura de gordura subcutânea (EGS) nas características de carcaça e qualidade de carne em novilhos, com até 24 meses de idade, britânicos ou suas cruzas terminados no sistema de confinamento. Para isso foi utilizado o sistema de meta-análise com dados extraídos de 46 artigos publicados, totalizando 2,695 unidades experimentais. Foi encontrado que a GS influencia no aumento linear no peso de carcaça quente (PCC) e fria (PCF) e em seus rendimentos. Além disso as frações de osso decaem enquanto as frações de músculo e gordura aumentam em altos níveis de GS. Não foi encontrada diferença significativa, mas variáveis de qualidade de carne. Assim a GS apresenta influência direta em PCC, PCF e nos pesos e rendimento de osso, músculo e gordura da carcaça de novilhos castrados. Um valor uniforme de gordura subcutânea de 6,00 mm é capaz de padronizar uma qualidade de carcaça e de produtos aos consumidores.

Influence of subcutaneous fat thickness on the carcass characteristics and meat quality of beef cattle / Influência da espessura da gordura subcutânea nas características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de bovinos

The objective of this research was to examine the effect of subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT) on carcass characteristics and meat quality in 24-month-old British and crossbred British steers finished in feedlot systems. It was assessed using meta-analysis performed on data that was extracted from 46 published studies and comprising a total of 2,695 experimental units. We found that SFT was influenced by and increased linearly with hot carcass weights (HCWs) and cold carcass weights (CCWs) and their yields; moreover, the bone fraction decreased whereas the muscle and fat fractions increased with higher levels of SFT. No significant differences were detected in meat quality variables. Thus, SFT appeared to have a direct influence on HCW, CCW, and the weight and yield of bone, muscle, and fat of castrated steers. A uniform fat thickness level of 6.0 mm SFT was determined to be the standard of quality of carcasses and meat products for consumers.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da espessura de gordura subcutânea (EGS) nas características de carcaça e qualidade de carne em novilhos, com até 24 meses de idade, britânicos ou suas cruzas terminados no sistema de confinamento. Para isso foi utilizado o sistema de meta-análise com dados extraídos de 46 artigos publicados, totalizando 2,695 unidades experimentais. Foi encontrado que a GS influencia no aumento linear no peso de carcaça quente (PCC) e fria (PCF) e em seus rendimentos. Além disso as frações de osso decaem enquanto as frações de músculo e gordura aumentam em altos níveis de GS. Não foi encontrada diferença significativa, mas variáveis de qualidade de carne. Assim a GS apresenta influência direta em PCC, PCF e nos pesos e rendimento de osso, músculo e gordura da carcaça de novilhos castrados. Um valor uniforme de gordura subcutânea de 6,00 mm é capaz de padronizar uma qualidade de carcaça e de produtos aos consumidores.(AU)

Production and quality of Tifton 85 pastures overseeded with black oat: effects of irrigation and nitrogen fertilization / Produção e qualidade de pastagens de Tifton 85 sobressemeadas com aveia preta: efeitos da irrigação e adubação nitrogenada

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of irrigation and nitrogen fertilization on the bromatological quality, forage production, and botanical and structural composition of Tifton 85 (Cynodon sp.) pastures overseeded with black oat (Avena strigosa). Four treatments were evaluated in a 2 × 2 factorial scheme (irrigated and non-irrigated × fertilized and non-fertilized), with three replicates, in a completely randomized design. In irrigated paddocks, the irrigation system was activated when the soil matric potential reached a value equal to, or higher than, 10 kPa and 135 kg N ha-¹ was applied to fertilized paddocks, divided into four applications. The forage mass pre- and post-grazing, total forage production, and the botanical, structural, and bromatological composition of the pastures were evaluated. No interaction was observed between the irrigation and nitrogen fertilization factors for any of the variables and no significant differences were observed in forage mass between pre- and post-grazing or in Tifton leaf and stem percentages. Nitrogen fertilization had a significant effect on forage production, which was 2626.41 kg dry matter (DM) ha-¹ higher in fertilized pastures than in unfertilized pastures. In addition, fertilization resulted in a lower percentage of dead material (6.66%), higher percentage of oat leaves (30.84%), higher leaf:stem ratio (1:45), higher crude protein content (24.13%), lower levels of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (64.57%) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) (32.86%), and higher in vitro dry matter digestibility (73.01%) than in unfertilized pastures. The use of irrigation did not influence total forage production, however, it resulted in pastures with lower NDF (65.97%) and ADF (33.54%), and higher in vitro dry matter digestibility (73.48%) than unirrigated pastures. Nitrogen fertilization produced improvements in pasture structure, associated with higher dry matter yield and bromatological...

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da irrigação e a adubação nitrogenada sobre a qualidade bromatológica, produção de forragem e a composição botânica e estrutural de pastagens de Tifton 85 (Cynodon sp.) sobressemeadas com aveia preta (Avena strigosa). Foram avaliados quatro tratamentos em um esquema fatorial 2x2 (irrigado e não irrigado x adubado e não adubado), com três repetições, no delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Em piquetes irrigados o sistema de irrigação foi acionado quando o potencial mátrico do solo atingia o valor igual ou superior a 10 kPa e em piquetes adubados foram aplicados 135 kg N ha-¹, dividido em quatro aplicações. Foram avaliadas a massa de forragem no pré e pós pastejo, a produção total de forragem, a composição botânica, estrutural e bromatológica das pastagens. Não foram observadas interação entre os fatores irrigação e adubação nitrogenada para nenhuma das variáveis e nem diferenças significativas para os valores da massa de forragem no pré e pós pastejo e nas porcentagens de folhas e colmo de Tifton. Houve efeito da adubação nitrogenada sobre a produção de forragem, onde proporcionou incremento de 2.626,41 kg MS ha-¹. Além disso, a adubação proporcionou menor porcentagem de material morto (6,66%), maior porcentagem de folhas de aveia (30,84%), maior relação folha:colmo (1,45), maior teor de proteína bruta (PB) (24,13%), menores teores de fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) (64,57%) e fibra em detergente ácido (FDA) (32,86%) e maior digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (73,01%). O uso da irrigação não influenciou a produção total de forragem, porém, proporcionou pastagens com menores teores de FDN (65,97%) e FDA (33,54%) e maior digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (73,48%). A adubação nitrogenada proporcionou melhorias na estrutura das pastagens, associadas à maior produção de matéria seca e melhor qualidade bromatológica, enquanto que a irrigação apenas proporcionou pastagens com menores teores de fibras e...

Quality of refrigerated raw milk obtained in production units in southwest Paraná / Qualidade do leite cru refrigerado obtido em unidades produtivas no Sudoeste do Paraná

The quality of milk is one of the most widely discussed topics in the national dairy production scenario. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the qualitative parameters and provide information regarding the factors that can affect the quality of refrigerated raw milk obtained monthly in 40 production units in six municipalities in Paraná Southwest region. Data collection was carried out of the properties with the aid of a semi-structured questionnaire. Twelve parameters were considered inherent in dairy farming and that can influence the quality of the raw material, as follows: production stratum, production systems, milking, cooling, labor, and service, frequency of care, hygiene of cooler, the milking teat disinfection ceilings and structure of the milking environment. The milk samples were analyzed for their composition of: fat, protein, lactose and Dry Total Extract (DTE), the Somatic Cell Count (SCC) and Count Standard on plates (CSP). The protein and SCC were not influenced by any of the parameters studied. The fat content is one of the milk components most likely to introduce variation in the ratio, which was influenced by the production stratum, type of labor, frequency of service, cooler cleaning and type of containment available on the property. The variables that showed higher values for fat and CSP are associated with properties with technological level and lower production. Nutritional aspects that promote increased production, as identified in the higher milk production systems result in lower percentage of milk fat. Facilities that have channeled milking and cooling by expansion provide better results for CSP. Practices such as the use of pre and post-dipping, cooler cleaning and milking machine with hot water and detergent significantly reduce the CSP.

A qualidade do leite é um dos temas mais discutidos atualmente no cenário nacional de produção leiteira. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os parâmetros qualitativos e disponibilizar informações referentes aos fatores que possam interferir na qualidade do leite cru refrigerado obtido mensalmente em 40 unidades produtoras de seis municípios na região Sudoeste do Paraná. Foi realizada a coleta de dados das propriedades com o auxílio de um questionário semiestruturado. Consideraram-se 12 parâmetros inerentes à atividade leiteira e que podem influenciar na qualidade da matéria-prima, conforme segue: estrato de produção, sistemas de produção, de ordenha, de resfriamento, mão de obra, assistência técnica, frequência da assistência, higienização do resfriador, da ordenha, dos tetos, desinfecção dos tetos e estrutura do ambiente de ordenha. As amostras de leite foram analisadas em relação a sua composição: gordura, proteína, lactose e Extrato Seco Total (EST), a Contagem de Células Somáticas (CCS) e Contagem Padrão em Placas (CPP). A proteína e CCS não foram influenciadas por nenhum dos parâmetros estudados. O teor de gordura é um dos componentes do leite mais passiveis a apresentar variação na proporção, o qual foi influenciado pelo estrato de produção, tipo de mão de obra, frequência da assistência técnica, higienização do resfriador e tipo de contenção disponível na propriedade. As variáveis que apresentaram maiores valores para gordura e CPP estão associados a propriedades com nível tecnológico e produção inferiores. Aspectos nutricionais que promovem o aumento da produção, como identificado nos sistemas de maior produção de leite resultam emmenor percentual de gordura do leite. Instalações que apresentam a ordenha canalizada e resfriamento por expansão proporcionam melhores resultados para CPP. Práticas como o uso de pré e pós-dipping, higienização do resfriador e ordenhadeira com água quente e detergente reduz significativamente a CPP.

Quality of refrigerated raw milk obtained in production units in southwest Paraná / Qualidade do leite cru refrigerado obtido em unidades produtivas no Sudoeste do Paraná

The quality of milk is one of the most widely discussed topics in the national dairy production scenario. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the qualitative parameters and provide information regarding the factors that can affect the quality of refrigerated raw milk obtained monthly in 40 production units in six municipalities in Paraná Southwest region. Data collection was carried out of the properties with the aid of a semi-structured questionnaire. Twelve parameters were considered inherent in dairy farming and that can influence the quality of the raw material, as follows: production stratum, production systems, milking, cooling, labor, and service, frequency of care, hygiene of cooler, the milking teat disinfection ceilings and structure of the milking environment. The milk samples were analyzed for their composition of: fat, protein, lactose and Dry Total Extract (DTE), the Somatic Cell Count (SCC) and Count Standard on plates (CSP). The protein and SCC were not influenced by any of the parameters studied. The fat content is one of the milk components most likely to introduce variation in the ratio, which was influenced by the production stratum, type of labor, frequency of service, cooler cleaning and type of containment available on the property. The variables that showed higher values for fat and CSP are associated with properties with technological level and lower production. Nutritional aspects that promote increased production, as identified in the higher milk production systems result in lower percentage of milk fat. Facilities that have channeled milking and cooling by expansion provide better results for CSP. Practices such as the use of pre and post-dipping, cooler cleaning and milking machine with hot water and detergent significantly reduce the CSP.(AU)

A qualidade do leite é um dos temas mais discutidos atualmente no cenário nacional de produção leiteira. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os parâmetros qualitativos e disponibilizar informações referentes aos fatores que possam interferir na qualidade do leite cru refrigerado obtido mensalmente em 40 unidades produtoras de seis municípios na região Sudoeste do Paraná. Foi realizada a coleta de dados das propriedades com o auxílio de um questionário semiestruturado. Consideraram-se 12 parâmetros inerentes à atividade leiteira e que podem influenciar na qualidade da matéria-prima, conforme segue: estrato de produção, sistemas de produção, de ordenha, de resfriamento, mão de obra, assistência técnica, frequência da assistência, higienização do resfriador, da ordenha, dos tetos, desinfecção dos tetos e estrutura do ambiente de ordenha. As amostras de leite foram analisadas em relação a sua composição: gordura, proteína, lactose e Extrato Seco Total (EST), a Contagem de Células Somáticas (CCS) e Contagem Padrão em Placas (CPP). A proteína e CCS não foram influenciadas por nenhum dos parâmetros estudados. O teor de gordura é um dos componentes do leite mais passiveis a apresentar variação na proporção, o qual foi influenciado pelo estrato de produção, tipo de mão de obra, frequência da assistência técnica, higienização do resfriador e tipo de contenção disponível na propriedade. As variáveis que apresentaram maiores valores para gordura e CPP estão associados a propriedades com nível tecnológico e produção inferiores. Aspectos nutricionais que promovem o aumento da produção, como identificado nos sistemas de maior produção de leite resultam emmenor percentual de gordura do leite. Instalações que apresentam a ordenha canalizada e resfriamento por expansão proporcionam melhores resultados para CPP. Práticas como o uso de pré e pós-dipping, higienização do resfriador e ordenhadeira com água quente e detergente reduz significativamente a CPP.(AU)

Silage production and the chemical composition of corn and Grass-tanzania intercropping / Produção e composição química da silagem de milho e capim-Tanzânia em consórcio

The objective of this study was to evaluate the production and chemical composition of silages of grass Tanzania and corn, grown single or intercropping. The experiment was conducted at UTFPR Câmpus Dois Vizinhos in the period between October 2011 and July 2012, a 600 m² area. The treatments were: TMI - single corn, TMT - corn and grass Tanzania consortium at the time of sowing, TT - Tanzania grass single, TT32 - grass Tanzania silage to 32% dry matter (content similar to that of corn). The experimental design a randomized block design with four treatments and five replications. Agronomic evaluations were performed 120 days after planting, as follows: number of linear-1 plants metro, plant height and ear insertion and number of ears.plants-1. In the grass we evaluated canopy height, where it was held the botanical separation in green leaves, dried and stem. Silage started being held in 100 mm PVC pipe (mini-silos) kept sealed for 60 days. At the time of opening of the silo were determined the following parameters: DM, pH, total loss of DM (PDM), specifies mass (SM), dry matter recovery indices (IRDM), losses gas (LG), and size particle. Chemical analysis of the results of OM, MM, ADF were higher for TMI treatments, TT and TT, respectively. CP and LIG had superior results for the treatments containing grass. Corn intercropping with grass Tanzania silage provides more crude...(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a produção e composição bromatológica de silagens de capim Tanzânia e de milho, cultivados solteiros ou consorciados. O experimento foi conduzido na UTFPR Câmpus Dois Vizinhos no período entre outubro de 2011 e julho de 2012, numa área de 600 m². Os tratamentos utilizados foram: TMI - milho solteiro, TMT - milho e capim- Tanzânia consorciados no momento da semeadura, TT - capim-Tanzânia solteiro, TT32 - capim-Tanzânia ensilado a 32% de matéria seca (teor semelhante ao do milho). O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e cinco repetições. As avaliações agronômicas foram realizadas 120 dias após a semeadura, sendo elas: número de plantas metro linear-1, altura da planta e inserção de espiga e número de espigas planta-1. No capim avaliou-se altura do dossel, onde foi realizada a separação botânica em folhas verdes, secas e colmo. A ensilagem foi realizada em tubos de PVC de 100 mm (microsilos), mantidos vedados por 60 dias. No momento da abertura do silo foram determinados os seguintes parâmetros: MS, pH, perda total de MS (PMS), massa específica (ME), índice de recuperação de massa seca (IRMS), perdas de gases (PG), e tamanho de partícula. Das análises bromatológicas os resultados de MO, MM, FDA foram superiores para os tratamentos TMI, TT e TT, respectivamente. PB e LIG tiveram resultados superiores para os tratamentos...(AU)

Silage production and the chemical composition of corn and Grass-tanzania intercropping / Produção e composição química da silagem de milho e capim-Tanzânia em consórcio

The objective of this study was to evaluate the production and chemical composition of silages of grass Tanzania and corn, grown single or intercropping. The experiment was conducted at UTFPR Câmpus Dois Vizinhos in the period between October 2011 and July 2012, a 600 m² area. The treatments were: TMI - single corn, TMT - corn and grass Tanzania consortium at the time of sowing, TT - Tanzania grass single, TT32 - grass Tanzania silage to 32% dry matter (content similar to that of corn). The experimental design a randomized block design with four treatments and five replications. Agronomic evaluations were performed 120 days after planting, as follows: number of linear-1 plants metro, plant height and ear insertion and number of ears.plants-1. In the grass we evaluated canopy height, where it was held the botanical separation in green leaves, dried and stem. Silage started being held in 100 mm PVC pipe (mini-silos) kept sealed for 60 days. At the time of opening of the silo were determined the following parameters: DM, pH, total loss of DM (PDM), specifies mass (SM), dry matter recovery indices (IRDM), losses gas (LG), and size particle. Chemical analysis of the results of OM, MM, ADF were higher for TMI treatments, TT and TT, respectively. CP and LIG had superior results for the treatments containing grass. Corn intercropping with grass Tanzania silage provides more crude...

Objetivou-se avaliar a produção e composição bromatológica de silagens de capim Tanzânia e de milho, cultivados solteiros ou consorciados. O experimento foi conduzido na UTFPR Câmpus Dois Vizinhos no período entre outubro de 2011 e julho de 2012, numa área de 600 m². Os tratamentos utilizados foram: TMI - milho solteiro, TMT - milho e capim- Tanzânia consorciados no momento da semeadura, TT - capim-Tanzânia solteiro, TT32 - capim-Tanzânia ensilado a 32% de matéria seca (teor semelhante ao do milho). O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e cinco repetições. As avaliações agronômicas foram realizadas 120 dias após a semeadura, sendo elas: número de plantas metro linear-1, altura da planta e inserção de espiga e número de espigas planta-1. No capim avaliou-se altura do dossel, onde foi realizada a separação botânica em folhas verdes, secas e colmo. A ensilagem foi realizada em tubos de PVC de 100 mm (microsilos), mantidos vedados por 60 dias. No momento da abertura do silo foram determinados os seguintes parâmetros: MS, pH, perda total de MS (PMS), massa específica (ME), índice de recuperação de massa seca (IRMS), perdas de gases (PG), e tamanho de partícula. Das análises bromatológicas os resultados de MO, MM, FDA foram superiores para os tratamentos TMI, TT e TT, respectivamente. PB e LIG tiveram resultados superiores para os tratamentos...

Organs and carcass non-integrant components of Holstein calves, slaughtered at different weights, held in different finishing systems / Órgãos e componentes não integrantes da carcaça de bezerros da raça holandesa abatidos com diferentes pesos, mantidos em diferentes sistemas de terminação

The objective of this study was to evaluate the weight of the empty body and non-integrant components of Holstein calves carcass, kept in confinement system or pasture, slaughtered at different weights. We used 43 Holstein calves, entire, age and initial body weight of approximately 58 days and 57 kg, distributed entirely at random in confinement or cultivated pasture. In feeding systems, it was pre-stipulated four slaughter weights (SW - 140, 180, 220 and 260 kg of live weight). In confinement, were provided corn silage and concentrate based on corn meal and soybean meal, in the ratio 40:60. The other animals in ryegrass pasture, followed by pearl millet, were fed based in supplementation of corn bran and soybean meal to 1% of live weight. The EBW showed linear growth with increasing slaughter weight (SW), as well as income from hot and cold carcass and there was no effect in relation EBW/ SW. The leather, the scraps, the head, the legs, as well as the sum of external components showed growth in its absolute weight as the weight increased at the slaughter of animals. In relative terms, the hot and cold carcass yields were inversely correlated with the relative weights, as well as external components (- 0.68 and - 0.81), the heart (- 0.35 and -0, 38) lungs (- 0.53 and - 0.53), the sum of the gastrointestinal tract (-0.75 and - 0.77), the sum of vital organs (- 0.71 to - 0.75) respectively in feedlot and pasture. This is due to the different ages that the animals were slaughtered (200; 237; 251 and 263 days of age), due to pre-stipulate weights. The absolute weights of heart, kidney, lungs, liver, spleen, gall bladder, reproductive tract and gastrointestinal tract accompanied the increase in weight at animals slaughter. However, when grouped, showed no difference related to the increase in weight at slaughter.[...](AU)

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o peso do corpo vazio (PCVZ) e os componentes não-carcaça de 43 bezerros holandeses, não castrados, com idade de 58 dias e peso médio de 60 kg, distribuídos ao acaso em confinamento ou pastagem cultivada. Em cada sistema, foram pré-estipulados quatro pesos de abate (PAB - 140, 180, 220 e 260 kg de peso vivo). No confinamento, foram fornecidos silagem de milho e concentrado à base de farelo de milho e farelo de soja, na relação 40:60. Os demais animais em pastagem cultivada de azevém e milheto, com suplementação a 1% do peso vivo. O PCVZ apresentou crescimento linear com o aumento do peso de abate, assim como os rendimentos de carcaça quente e fria e não houve efeito na relação PCVZ/PAB. O crescimento absoluto dos componentes externos foi proporcional ao aumento de peso. Em peso relativo ao PCVZ apenas a cabeça e as patas apresentaram diminuição em resposta ao aumento do peso vivo. O peso absoluto do coração, rins, pulmão, fígado, baço, vesícula biliar, traqueia, aparelho reprodutivo, TGI e o conteúdo do TGI elevaram-se linearmente. Em unidades relativas, o fígado, o esôfago, o trato gastrintestinal e o somatório dos componentes internos apresentaram decréscimo com o aumento do peso do animal. O peso absoluto do conteúdo do trato gastrintestinal, da traquéia, do baço e do somatório dos componentes internos, além do o peso relativo da cabeça, do fígado, do baço e do somatório dos componentes internos foram maiores nos animais terminados a pasto. Já os pesos absolutos das aparas e do couro, além do peso relativo do couro foram superiores nos animais terminados em confinamento.(AU)