mixed species grazing + crossbreeding

Crossbreeding along with mixed species grazing provides various environmental, economic and livestock advantages. Although some people prefer purebred livestock, the pros of crossbred animals are undeniable. Crossbreeding occurs when two different purebred, or already crossbred breeds mate. This process allows the offspring to grasp traits from both parents, or in this case both breeds. It allows producers to utilize desired attributes and suit their livestock to target markets. 

To give an example, pest resistant cattle breeds such as Brahman cattle have been mixed with Angus cattle which have good maternal traits and fertility. The Brangus breed are known for their resistance to heat because of the Brahman’s Indian origin and their calving ease which comes from the Angus’ maternal traits. Hybrid vigor or heterosis is the term that describes the qualities inherited from crossbred parents. The more different the two breeds, the more hybrid vigor is shown. In perspective, crossing a Bos indicus breed with a Bos taurus has more impact than crossing two Bos taurus breeds. 

Crossbreeding utilizes multiple traits to the full potential, while pure breeding focuses on utilizing one trait from a particular breed. Due to environmental issues, genetic trends and economic management, crossbreeding has proved to best benefit producers in the beef industry. “The new combinations of genetic material can lead to production advantages over and above the average of the two parent breeds or strains.” 

Following this, mixed species grazing “allows for greater utilization of forages, improves soil health, increases biodiversity, improves wildlife habitat and creates opportunity for additional enterprises, profitability and risk mitigation.” Cattle tend to eat grass but overlook leaves, twigs and other small forage. Introducing sheep into the same pasture would allow these smaller, unused materials to be consumed and utilized. These contrasting foraging behaviors would maximize soil and plant health and biodiversity. 

Crossbreeding and mixed-species grazing are strategies which enhance livestock performance and promote environmental profitability. 

“Crossbreeding Systems for Beef Cattle.” FutureBeef, 2 Mar. 2023, futurebeef.com.au/resources/crossbreeding-systems-for-beef-cattle/. Accessed 09 Oct. 2024.

www.farmprogress.com/farm-operations/crossbreeding-has-its-economic-advantages. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

Gaskamp, Josh, and Clark Roberts. “How Multiple Livestock Species Can Be Used to Benefit Your Ranch.” Noble Research Institute, 19 July 2023, www.noble.org/regenerative-agriculture/livestock/how-multiple-livestock-species-can-be-used-to-benefit-your-ranch/. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.