Selective Breeding of Cattle

Beef

• The Belgian blue is a classic example of a species selectively bred for beef production. Belgian blue cattle have a specific gene mutation that promotes muscle growth. Belgian blue cattle, then, produce substantially more meat than many other types of cattle, and can grow to very large sizes. In fact, Belgian blue calfs are so large that they typically must be taken from their mother's womb by caesarean section rather than naturally.

Dairy

• Many breeds exist that emphasize dairy production. In fact, selective breeding of cattle for dairy production has become so specialized that farmers can predict the fat and protein content of the milk based on the breed of the cow. The Holstein breed of cow, with its famous black and white spots, can produce up to 3,260 gallons of milk per milk cycle of 305 days, which works out to more than 10 gallons of milk a day.

Traditional

• The highland cattle breed of Scotland is the world's oldest registered breed of cattle, and was officially established in 1884. Rather than promote dairy or beef production, the highland cattle has been bred to preserve the natural characteristics of wild cattle. Its hardy nature, minimal maintenance requirements and resistence to disease make it a popular choice for selective breeders to incorporate into their lines. While the highland breed was not bred with beef production in mind, the contemporary demand for lean, lowfat meat has made the highland breed, which has very little fat content relative to other breeds, increasingly popular.

Fighting

• The Spanish sport of bullfighting requires an aggressive, combative bull. Therefore, Spanish herders have bred the Spanish fighting bull specifically to emphasize aggression. This bull, often lean, muscular and a dark brown or black color, is consistently combative in bullfighting rings. Because it is not bred for beef production, it is much faster and smaller than other types of bulls.