News Update

News Update
Nov. 7, 2006

Researchers Measure Cattle Sweat Rate, Seek Genetic Markers to Offset Heat Stress

Using a device resembling an electric razor, University of Missouri (MU) researchers are measuring sweat rate in cattle in search of ways to help producers overcome heat stress in their herds.

According to an MU release, heat stress can be a major factor in limiting cattle growth and reproduction. Cattle sweat more in the shoulders than in the rump area due to a higher number of sweat glands, but different breeds sweat at different levels when exposed to heat, said Don Spiers, associate professor of animal science.

Spiers and other researchers studied three groups of cattle: Angus raised in Missouri, and Angus and Romosinuano raised in Florida. They compared sweat rates and corresponding body temperature of the three groups.

According to the release, the Romosinuanos, which are noted for heat tolerance, sweated less than Angus cattle from either state, but maintained a lower body temperature, he said. “That means they must be doing something else to lower body temperature. These animals are slower-growing than Angus, which suggests lower metabolic rate.”

The lower sweat rates may be the animals’ attempt to preserve body moisture, making hydration a critical factor, he said. “We are going to look for genetic markers for animals that will do better in the heat, and sweating is one of the parameters we are looking at,” he said.

“Hopefully, we can find these markers in a blood sample and give (results) to breeders to select for animals that have this trait,” he said. “The Romosinuano are the same genus and species as Angus, which means there should be less variance between the animals, so we should be better able to pick up any difference in their ability to tolerate heat.”

— provided by the University of Missouri

Colvin Scholarship Application Deadline Nears

The Colvin Scholarship Foundation and Certified Angus Beef LLC are seeking applicants for its 2007 scholarships. Applications are due Dec. 15. All qualified college juniors and seniors are encouraged to apply.

The scholarships will be awarded in January 2007 to a junior or senior college-level student demonstrating a commitment to the beef industry through the pursuit of a meat science, food science, animal science, marketing, business, communications, journalism, or other degree related to the beef industry through activities and curriculum.

Applications are available at www.certifiedangusbeef.com/press/csf/index.php.

For more information contact Vickie Catteau at 1-800-225-2333, ext. 268, or at vcatteau@certifiedangusbeef.com.

Cattle Rustling on Rise

Cattle thefts are reportedly increasing as cattle prices continue to rise, a USA Today article reports.

According to the article, the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) reported $6.2 million in livestock thefts in 2005. In addition, Missouri’s special cattle rustling unit created in February 2006 has recovered livestock valued at more than $400,000.

The Kansas Cattlemen’s Association has also seen an increase in cattle thefts this year, reporting more than 24 calls from ranchers; 15 cases involved more than five animals valued at up to $1,300 per animal.

— compiled by Crystal Albers, associate editor, Angus Productions Inc.