This textbook provides an integrated view of beef cattle production with a systems based approach, discussing the interrelationships of a broad range of aspects with the overall goal of optimising cattle production. This book provides the background to allow cattle producers to match their production environments with genetic, management, and marketing opportunities for sustainable beef production globally. This logic and resulting considerations can then be tailored to address specific regional challenges and opportunities worldwide. Considerations and examples for extreme situations will be provided, such as very small herds, very large herds, communal-group situations, and minimal artificial input systems. 

This practical book will be important reading for upper level undergraduate and postgraduate students in animal and veterinary science, producers, extension workers and veterinarians.

CONTENTS:

SECTION ONE: Introduction to Beef Cattle Production Systems

SECTION TWO: History and Domestication

SECTION THREE: Breeding and Genetics

SECTION FOUR: Nutrition

SECTION FIVE: Grazing and Pasture Management

SECTION SIX: Live Animal Evaluation

SECTION SEVEN: Growth and Development

SECTION EIGHT: Reproduction

SECTION NINE: Health

SECTION TEN: Behavior, Temperament, Handling and Welfare

SECTION ELEVEN: Carcass and Meat

SECTION TWELVE: Financial and Economic Aspects

SECTION THIRTEEN: Supply Chain and Integrated Production Systems

SECTION FOURTEEN: Global Comparisons of Cattle and Beef