책임운영기관 농촌진흥청 국립축산과학원 (로고)

This study investigated the effect of the short-term fattening period and castration method on the growth performance, serum testosterone levels, carcass characteristics, and economic feasibility of Hanwoo cattle. Thirty-two Hanwoo calves (Initial body weight: 148.4 +- 19.8 kg) were divided into the four treatment groups combining the short-term fattening period (slaughter: 24 and 26 months of age) and tration method (CA:castration, HC: hemi-castration): CA24, HA24, CA26, and HA26. Final body weight was highest in HC26 and lowest in CA24 (p<0.04). However, there was no difference in average daily gain and feed conversion ratio between the treatment groups. After castration, the testosterone concentration was higher in the HC group than in the CA group for the entire experimental period (p<0.05). Back fat thickness was higher in the CA group than in the HC group (p<0.01), and the yield index was higher in the HC group (p<0.01). The marbling scores and auction prices were significantly higher in the CA group than in the HC group (p<0.01), and there was no difference between the two short-term fattening periods. Net income was highest in the CA26 group and was higher in the CA group compared to that in the HC group (p<0.01). Thus, hemi-castration is so complete castration is essential for economic profit because it reduces marbling and net income without improving muscle development. In addition, using a short-term fattening period of 24 months can reduce the production cost slightly, but 26 months will be more profitable due to increased carcass weight and marbling.