The viability for slaughtering steers of distinct breeds with four teeth at most, on different types of pasture (natural, fertilized and fertilized with overseeding) with winter species was evaluated. The experimental design was randomized blocks with three replicates (padlocks). Data were analyzed according to the seasons (winter and spring) and submitted to analyses of variance. Angus calves and crossbred calves were used, both 20 months of age on average. Total forage mass and the pasture height showed differences between pasture type and seasons. Carrying capacity rate and green forage mass showed interaction between pasture type and season. Yield per unit area during the experimental period was higher in fertilized (259 kg/ha) and oversown pasture (263 kg/ha) than natural pasture (126 kg/ha). Average live-weight gain was higher for the Angus steers (1.087 kg/day) and during the winter (1.251 kg/day). Rib eye area did not show statistical difference between the pasture type and breeds at slaughtering time. Fat thickness showed interaction according to pasture and breeds, where crossbred steers were fatter on fertilized pasture and Angus steers were fatter on oversow pasture. Crossbred animals got lower slaughtering weight (505 kg), yet higher carcass yields (51.6%). Only steers kept on natural pasture did not reach enough fatness for commercialization. The use of fertilizer and seed on the natural pasture allows for slaughtering young steers regardless of the breed. Pasture condition allows different productive performances according to the animal genetics used. Crossbreeding is an alternative to increase important attributes on carcass and to reduce the finishing phase duration.
average daily live-weight gain; biologic type; carcass quality; fat thickness; overseeding
