Breeds of Beef Cattle 2

One of the world’s oldest breeds

Originally had short, straight off-white hair coat with black skin pigmentation; prominent color today is black hair coat and black skin pigmentation

Extremely large framed, late maturing breed that is fast growing

Has a tremendous impact on the “show steer” industry in U.S.

Produce lean muscular carcasses, marbling is typically problematic

Below average maternal characteristics

Originally reddish gold in color with pink nose pigmentation and horns; Black coat with black pigmentation and Polled are acceptable within breed standards today

Moderate size that will finish at less (<) than 200 pounds

Produce extremely lean, muscular carcasses but difficult to grade choice

Below average maternally, somewhat lacking in milk production

Brahman (India) Brangus (U.S.) Santa Gertrudis (U.S.) Beefmaster (U.S.)

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Both red and gray strains of Brahmans exist, both have black pigmentation, horned

Noted for heat tolerance, disease and insect resistance and crossing ability

Poor marbling, and slow sexual maturity if offset by their ability to thrive in hot, humid environments in the Southern U.S.

Brangus, Santa Gertrudis, Beefmaster, Braford, Simbrah

5/8 Angus and 3/8 Brahman, black and naturally polled

Excellent mothering ability, moderate size, early sexual maturing, heat tolerance and forage ability result from the two parent cross

Intermediate in carcass merit between the two parent breeds

Brangus

5/8 Shorthorn and 3/8 Brahman, dark red, both Polled and horned

Developed on the King Ranch in Kingsville, Tx by founder Robert J. Kleberg

1) the Breed traces back to single sire 2) Composite breed

Noted for maternal ability, productivity under hot, adverse conditions, and overall hardness