Growth and reproductive performance of Shorthorn crosses and native cattle as affected by two levels of feeding.

Abstract

6 male and 5 female calves each of Shorthorn X Domiatti crosses and 3 female calves each of the Domiatti breed were fed either the norm (100% allowance) or a lower ratio (80% allowance) between their 28th and 72nd weeks of age. The growth of all animals differed significantly with regard to the different allowance levels but not with regard to the breeds. In the female animals no differences were found in the age and live weight at puberty, the first conception, and calving between the two feeding levels. In the male animals there were no differences in the age at puberty with both feeding levels, though there were significant differences in the live weight at puberty. The semen volume, sperm motion, and sperm concentration were not significantly affected.