Simulation of cow-calf production systems in a range environment: I. Model development

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Animal Science
• Computational Biology

Background:

• Beef cattle production systems are complex, influenced by numerous dynamic factors.
• Optimizing these systems requires sophisticated tools to predict outcomes.
• Previous models may not fully integrate genotype, physiology, forage, and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and procedures of a mathematical computer model for beef cattle production.
• To simulate animal and system performance in range environments.
• To provide a tool for evaluating breeding strategies and management decisions.

Main Methods:

• Development of a dynamic mathematical computer model.
• Simulation of individual animal performance over complete life cycles.
• Integration of factors: cattle genotype, physiological state, forage quality, and management.

Main Results:

• The model simulates forage intake, energy and protein metabolism, growth, reproduction, and body composition changes.
• It tabulates expenses related to animal performance, management, and land resources.
• Computes biological and economic performance measures like input/output ratios and break-even prices.

Conclusions:

• The developed model provides a comprehensive simulation of beef cattle production systems.
• It enables the evaluation of system responses to various breeding and management strategies.
• This tool aids in optimizing decision-making for range production and marketing systems.