The effect of sex and genotype on growth performance, feed efficiency, and carcass traits of local sheep group Pantaneiro and Texel or Santa Inês crossbred finished on feedlot
This study aimed to assess and compare the growth
performance, feed efficiency, and carcass traits of Pantaneiro
sheep and their Texel and Santa Inês crossbreds. Ninety-six
lambs, fifty-one males, and forty-five females, with a mean
weaning weight of 15.21±1.25 kg and 78±13 days of age,
were slaughtered at a 32-kg body weight. The results showed
better production efficiency from males compared with females.
Texel-crossed lambs had a better growth performance
than the other genotypes. The Texel×Pantaneiro lambs were
more efficient with a better feedlot performance, higher ribeye
muscle area, and better carcass characteristics with an adequate
amount of fat cover. Pantaneiro lambs and their crosses
with meat breeds could be useful in meat production systems
under Savanna environmental conditions.
