Crossbreeding as a tool in the Brahman toolkit

One of the most powerful tools available to cattle producers to improve productivity and efficiency in a herd is the use of crossbreeding.

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Effective use of a crossbreeding system allows producers to take advantage of heterosis (hybrid vigour), breed complementarity, and biological breed type differences to match cattle to specific production resources (Taylor, 1984).

This Brahman-Charolais cross cow with a calf from a Charolais sire exemplifies how crossbreeding between genetically diverse breeds can enhance traits such as fertility, growth rate, and disease resistance, leading to improved overall performance. (Photograph: Schlebusch Boerdery)

When considering a crossbreeding programme, it is important to understand the different systems, and what needs to be considered before attempting them. Note that failure to adequately implement a proper crossbreeding programme can potentially decrease the level of hybrid vigour observed.

Key concepts

• Crossbreeding: Mating animals of different breeds. Not to be confused with outcrossing which happens when mating unrelated animals in the same breed.

• Heterosis/hybrid vigour: The phenomenon where crossbred progeny outperform the average of their purebred parents in certain traits. Note that generally, heterosis generates the biggest improvement in lowly heritable traits.

• Breed complementarity: Using different breeds that complement each other's strengths to produce offspring with desirable traits.

Types of crossbreeding systems

• Terminal crossbreeding: This system involves mating cows to a bull of a different breed and selling all the offspring. Replacement heifers are purchased or homebred, and the focus is on maximising hybrid vigour in the sale calves.