Effect of Bioregion on the Size and Production Efficiency of Bonsmara Cattle in Semi-Arid Parts of Southern Africa

The effects of bioregions in the semi-arid parts of Southern Africa on growth, size and reproduction efficiency of Bonsmara cows are investigated. The regional distribution of cattle influences the growth, size and reproduction efficiency of cows, and provides evidence for an optimal cow size for different bioregions. Effects of bioregion on growth and reproduction of extensive beef cattle is complex, because the proportion of variation in growth traits explained by bioregion, depends on the physiological stages of growth, e.g., birth, weaning, 12- or 18-month growth stages. For production efficiency, weaning- and yearling weights as well as age at first calving (AFC) and reproduction index (RI) were influenced most by bioregion. Management practices, such as livestock recording and improvement strategies, and better nutrition at weaning and yearling age, limit the negative effects of bioregion on cow growth and size. Genetic trends indicate that the efficiency of growth improved, but was associated with a decline in reproductive characteristics. Indiscriminate selection for growth traits in cattle adversely affects reproduction. The current data indicate that cows of medium size had the best reproduction rates. Acceptable reproduction of larger cows can be achieved with improved management and strategic feed supplementation, although more costly