Fat colour score (FCS), beta-carotene concentration and their relationship were examined in carcasses of Jersey, Limousin, and Fl heifers and in biopsy samples of Jersey, 3/4 Jersey, and 3/4 Limousin weaners. Results demonstrate significant differences between all breeds in beta-carotene concentration and FCS. High correlations between FCS and beta-carotene concentration were also demonstrated. Sex differences in FCS and beta-carotene concentration were not significant. The shape of the distributions of beta-carotene content in fat varied between the breeds. High outliers were observed for the pure Jersey, 3/4 Jersey, and Fl and not observed in Limousin and 3/4 Limousin. Based on this preliminary data, we confirmed that beta-carotene concentration in fat of cattle has a genetic basis and hypothesise that a major gene(s) may be involved.
History
Publication title
Proceedings 6th World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, The University of New England, Armidale, Australia.
Volume
23
Pagination
121 -124
ISSN
1328-3227
Publication status
Published
Event title
6th World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production
Event Venue
Armidale
Date of Event (Start Date)
1998-01-11
Date of Event (End Date)
1998-01-11
Rights statement
In Proceedings 6th World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, The University of New England, Armidale, Australia, vol. 25, 121-124.