PSVI-20 Effects of castration age on growth, carcass, and sensory characteristics of Gulf Coast Native sheep. (7th December 2018) - Vallian, J
Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the time of castration on growth, carcass and sensory characteristics of Gulf Coast Native lambs. Eighteen Gulf Coast Native male lambs average BW 3.73 kg born between 3/6/2017 and 3/28/2017 were randomly allotted to the following treatments (no castration, castration at 30 or 90 d of age) n= 6, 5, and 7 respectively. All males were derived from one flock located at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Normal animal husbandry procedures were performed at birth and lambs were provided ad libitum access to a commercial 16% CP creep diet until weaning. At weaning lambs were provided native pasture, rye grass hay, and access to a 16% CP diet. Castration was performed via elastrator rubber band ring applied over the scrotum. Individual BW were collected at 30, 60, and 90 d, and then biweekly until harvest. Average age and weight at harvest was 244 d and 37.9 kg respectively. Intact males grew faster and were heavier at harvest (P < 0.05). In addition, intact males produced greater HCW (P 0.10) for the sensory characteristics: juiciness, tenderness, or flavor. Rams resulted in the highest cooking yield (P <0.08), but the lowest pH, b* color, and percent ash (P =0.07). These results suggest that castrating Gulf Coast Native lambs may not be necessary to maximize growth efficiency and providing consumer acceptable lamb. Key Words: