Genetic Trends in the Estimated Feed Intake of Angus Cattle

Abstract

Genetic trends are presented for the estimated feed intake of young Angus animals at pasture and in the feedlot, and of Angus cows at pasture for a self-replacing, 100d-finished production system. Increases in feed intake over time, both at pasture and in the feedlot, are estimated to have accompanied genetic gains in productivity traits in Angus cattle. The estimated increases are both in feed requirement and residual feed intake, with the latter being smaller in magnitude. The need for industry to record feed intake to facilitate selection for feed efficiency and, in the absence of this, for stocking rate to be managed in commercial herds to offset increases in feed intake, are factors briefly discussed in connection with industry realising benefits from genetic improvement.