The Relationship of Body Condition Score with Subcutaneous and Internal Fat Measurements by Real-Time Ultrasound in Crossbred Beef Cows
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Ag Science and Natural Resources
Date of Award
Fall 2011
Abstract
Data were collected on crossbred beef cows (n = 76) to identify relationships between body condition score (BCS) and real-time ultrasound (RTU) fat measurements. Ultrasound traits measured included rump fat (uRUMP), backfat (uBF), and kidney fat depth(uKFd). Total predicted internal fat (IFAT) and combined subcutaneous fat (ComboFat, average of uRUMP and uBF) were also calculated. Body condition score was moderately to highly correlated (P < 0.05) with uKFd, uRUMP, uBF, and IFAT (0.59, 0.61, 0.67, and 0.74, respectively). Body weight was moderately correlated (P < 0.05) with uKFd, uRUMP, uBF, and IFAT (0.52, 0.45, 0.46, and 0.55, respectively). Body condition score was a good estimator of uBF (R2 = 0.45), uRUMP (R2 = 0.36), ComboFat (R2 = 0.42), uKFd (R2 = 0.36), and IFAT (R2 = 0.55). Including HH and BW in prediction equations only improved R2 slightly. Results indicate there is a good relationship between BCS and RTU fat measurements in beef cows.
Advisor
Flavio Ribeiro
Subject Categories
Agriculture | Life Sciences
Recommended Citation
Gates, Kali Noelle, "The Relationship of Body Condition Score with Subcutaneous and Internal Fat Measurements by Real-Time Ultrasound in Crossbred Beef Cows" (2011). Electronic Theses & Dissertations. 43.
https://digitalcommons.tamuc.edu/etd/43
