Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1-2002

Abstract

This review reveals that dystocia, with associated increased mortality and(or) reduced survival rate, can be a problem when sires varying in percent Bos indicus inheritance are mated to Bos taurus females. The fact that male calves resulting from these matings are gestated longer and have considerably heavier birth BW than heifer calves is a major contributor to this increased dystocia. A small number of studies involving Brahman sires have indicated larger birth BW for late-born calves in spring calving programs. Furthermore, several studies have documented poor reproductive performance of Brahman bulls, which contributes to subsequent delayed birth of their calves. When combined with the longer gestation length as well as the positive direct additive and heterotic effects of the Brahman breed for birth BW, these factors appear to be major contributors to the increased dystocia observed when Brahman bulls are mated to Bos taurus females, especially in situations involving late-born, male calves.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Professional Animal Scientist

First Page

18

Last Page

25

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