CATTLE-BREEDING - PART II - CROSSBREEDING SYSTEMS

Many producers use crossbreeding systems in order to take advantage of heterosis (the boost to progeny performance that occurs when unrelate d animals are mated; also called hybrid vigor) as well as to combine t he strengths of different breeds. In general, trails that respond poor ly to selection (discussed in Part I [February 1998]) respond well to crossbreeding - with an increase in performance due to heterosis. This article outlines the basic strategies involved with several of these systems (two-breed rotational system, rotational-terminal-sire system, and purchased F-1 heifers and terminal-sire system) as well as the st rengths and weaknesses inherent in each of them. In addition, it addre sses the use of composite breeds of cattle. The choice of a crossbreed ing system depends primarily on the management capabilities of the pro ducer.