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Questions and Answers
What percentage of beef production is accounted for by suckler herd animals in Ireland?
25-30%
What is the daily live weight gain (LWG) for Spring Born Suckler calves?
0.8-1kg/day
What is the floor space required for weanlings in beef production?
1.4 m²
What is one significant difference in growth rates between bulls and steers?
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What weight do Autumn Born Suckler calves typically have at birth?
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How does the EUROP system grade carcass quality?
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What type of calves are particularly suitable for veal production in the continental market?
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What is the target weight at slaughter for a heifer?
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What factors determine carcass quality grading?
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What impact does castration have on beef production?
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Study Notes
Beef Production in Ireland
- Suckler herd animals account for 25-30% of beef production.
- Daily live weight gain (LWG) for Spring Born Suckler calves ranges from 0.8 to 1 kg per day.
Space Requirements
- Weanlings in beef production require a minimum of 1.4 m² of floor space.
Growth Rates Comparison
- Bulls exhibit faster growth rates compared to steers, primarily due to the absence of testosterone in steers.
Birth Weight Statistics
- Autumn Born Suckler calves typically weigh around 45 kg at birth.
Carcass Quality Grading
- The EUROP system evaluates carcass quality, grading from E (highest quality) to P (lowest quality) based on several attributes.
Calves for Continental Market
- Friesen calves are particularly suitable for the continental market, especially for veal production.
Target Weights for Slaughter
- Target weight at slaughter for heifers is set at 450 kg.
- Target weight at slaughter for bulls is set at 750 kg.
Carcass Quality Determinants
- Key factors in carcass quality grading include length, shape, percentage of fat, and meat content.
Impact of Castration
- Castration helps inhibit testosterone production, which in turn promotes growth in steers.
Notifiable Diseases
- A significant aspect of notifiable diseases is that they must be reported to the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine.
Hybrid Vigour
- Hybrid vigour refers to the enhanced biological qualities observed in offspring produced from genetically diverse parents.
Stock Bull Selection Advantages
- Selecting a stock bull offers advantages such as proven fertility and known genetic traits.
Conception Rate Factors
- Achieving a high conception rate in breeding is heavily influenced by the optimal timing of insemination.
Biosecurity in Livestock Farming
- Implementing biosecurity measures is crucial as it prevents the introduction and spread of diseases within livestock.
Calf Feeding Methods
- When introducing whole or powdered milk to calves, it is recommended to do so gradually over 3-4 days, with daily feeding at about 10% of the calf's body weight.
Handling Calves on Arrival
- Healthy calves should be handled with care upon arrival to the farm to minimize stress and ensure their well-being.
Importance of Colostrum
- Feeding colostrum to calves is vital as it provides essential antibodies and nutrients, supporting their immune system and overall health.
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Description
Test your knowledge on beef production specifics with this quiz focused on suckler herds in Ireland. Discover key statistics regarding live weight gain, space requirements, and growth rates of calves. Perfect for students and professionals in agriculture.
