Growth Performance of Arsi, Borana, Harar and HF-Crossbred Bulls Finished under Similar Feeding Condition

Abstract

The study was conducted to evaluate the fattening performance of Arsi, Borana, Harar and HF-Crossbred bulls finished under similar feeding condition at the beef farm in Haramaya University. A total of 24 bulls with age categories of 2-3 and 4-5 years were used in the complete block design for the experiment. Total mixed ration was provided at 3% of their BW during experimental periods. The average daily weight gain of the four breeds range from 0.49 to 0.71 kg. Feed conversion efficiency also ranges from 0.11 – 0.15. Simple linear regression models were used to explore the relationship between live body weight change and change in BCS as well as seven linear body measurements for all age groups. An average change for a unite of body condition score was equivalent to 20.3, 20.61, 22.42 and 27.78kg for Borana, Arsi, Harar and HF-crossbred bulls respectively. BCS was significantly (P<0.01) influenced by breeds. There was a significant (P<0.05) breed by age interaction effect on the initial body condition score of the four breeds. There was a significant and positive strong association between change in BW and BCS. There was a significant and strong correlation between change in BW and change in Total topline, neck length, heart girth, flank circumference and rump length having correlation coefficient ranges (r = 0.57 to 0.97). Higher (P<0.01) net profit of 7,380.47 ETB per head was recorded by Borana bulls followed by Harar bulls, Arsi and HF Crossbred with net profit of 5,406.86, 5193.29 and 3,384.98 ETB per head respectively.