Body composition and composition of gain of growing beef bulls fed rations with varying energy concentrations

Data on chemical body composition of cattle serve as a basis for recommendations on energy and nutrient requirements. Relevant data of growing dual-purpose Fleckvieh (German Simmental) bulls are scarce and originate from old trials, covering low rates of gain and live weights. Hence, the aim of the study was to analyze the body tissue distribution, chemical composition, and composition of body weight gain of growing Fleckvieh bulls within a 120-780 kg live weight range. Results showed that body composition changed during growth but was not affected by dietary energy concentration. Changes in body composition were characterized by increasing shares of fat tissue and ether extract. Body tissues as blood, organs, gastrointestinal tract, and bone proportionately decreased during growth, while muscle and tendon proportions remained constant. The bulls featured enhanced growth potential and high muscle and protein gain throughout the described weight range. The requirements for metabolizable protein in relation to energy decrease with increasing live weight of the animals.

Automated summary

The data on chemical body composition of cattle play a vital role in determining energy and nutrient requirements. This study focused on growing Fleckvieh bulls and found that their body composition changed as they grew, with increases in fat tissue and ether extract. While various body tissues decreased proportionately during growth, muscle and tendon proportions remained constant. The bulls exhibited enhanced growth potential and high muscle and protein gain within the studied weight range. Metabolizable protein requirements in relation to energy decreased as the animals' live weight increased.