Co-relations among ultrasound measurements and on carcass of the steers finished on pasture

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate correlations between carcass and ultrasound measurements of steers finished in pasture. Twelve steers, Nellore e F1 Brangus x Nellore, averaging 22 months old and 464 kg of body weight were used. Longissimus muscle area (LMA) and subcutaneous backfat thickness (SBT) measured by ultrasound at the day before slaughter and in the carcass were measured. The perimeter (REP), depth (RED) and width (REW) of LMA in the carcass were measured. Significant correlation of 0.47 and 0.64 for REA and SBT, respectively were detected between the ultrasound and carcass measurements. A positive and significant correlation of 0.93 and 0.70 was obtained for REP and REW, respectively, both with carcass LMA. Ultrasound measurements are correlated to carcass measurements of steers finished in pasture. Longissimus muscle area perimeter and width are high correlated to the area and can be used to estimate LMA.