Evaluation of muscle tissue growth in Young Mediterranean Buffaloes slaughtered at different weights

• Main Authors: R.B. Pardo, A.M. Jorge, T.A.B. dos Santos
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2010-02-01
• Series: Italian Journal of Animal Science
• Subjects: Muscle tissue, Buffalo
• Online Access: http://www.aspajournal.it/index.php/ijas/article/view/1225
• ISSN: 1594-4077; 1828-051X

This study evaluated muscle, adipose and bone tissue growth in young Mediterranean buffaloes slaughtered with different weights. Twenty eight non-castrated males, approximately 14 months old and 330 kilos, were distributed in four experimental and one control groups. Received the same diet during a non-fixed period and when reached the pre-established weights (450 kg, 480 kg, 510 kg, 540 kg) were fasted for 16 hours and slaughtered. NRC 1996, level 2, ruminal simulation program for non-castrated animals with a daily weight gain of 1.40 kg determined percentage composition of experimental diet (dry matter): coast cross hay (20.6%), corn silage (7.8%), cotton seed (8.2%), humid corn silage (46%) and commercial mineral concentrate (17.4%), representing 13% of crude protein and 2,68% of metabolizable energy (Mcal/kg). Feed was offered ad libitum twice daily. Slaughter of control group occurred after 30 days of an adaptation period. The other ones were weighted each 28 days until reached pre-established weight. Carcasses were chilled for 18 hours under -5oC. Ninth, 10o and 11o ribs of the half left carcass were submitted to HH section and according to the statistical regression analysis (SAS, 1996), allometric coefficient value was negative (b<1) demonstrating the early growth of muscle in relation to empty carcass weight.