Genetic variation between crossbred weaner calves in triacylglycerol fatty acid composition

Abstract

This study compared the fatty acid composition of subcutaneous biopsies of 324 weaner progeny by Angus, Belgian Blue, Hereford, South Devon, Wagyu, Jersey and Limousin sires mated to Hereford dams. The aim was to investigate sire genotype and sex differences in triacylglycerol fatty acids in a grass-fed management system. Results indicated that sire genotype and sex were significant sources of variation in individual fatty acids and summations of their proportions, while the effects of sire genotype by sex interaction and sire nested within sire genotype were not significant. Limousin crosses had the highest proportion of 18:0 and total saturated fatty acids, but the lowest proportion of 16: 1 and total monounsaturated fatty acids. Jersey crosses had the highest percentage of 16: 1 while Wagyu crosses had the highest proportions of 18: ln-9 and total monounsaturated fatty acids. Total polyunsaturated fatty acids did not differ between genotypes. Heifers contained higher 16: 1, 18: ln-9 and total monounsaturated fatty acids but lower proportions of 18:O and total saturated fatty acids than steers.