Effects of inbreeding on postweaning performance of shorthorn beef cattle

Abstract

Two inbred lines of Shorthorn beef cattle were established during 1950 to evaluate inbreeding. Analyses of postweaning production data for the first four generations of inbreeding indicate that inbreeding in calves depresses yearling type score, average daily gain, and weight per day of age, but not feed efficiency. The growth depression effects were relatively minor, however. Inbreeding in dams of the calves did not significantly affect any of those traits. Observations to date indicate that mild inbreeding will not cause fitness traits to deteriorate in beef cattle.