Feedlot performance of steers from four genetic groups (Charolais, Aberdeen Angus, Nelore and Mediterranean buffalo), fed with a high roughage diet, was evaluated. The animals were fed during a 112 days period, with a 13% crude protein diet, containing 72.24% fresh chopped sugar cane (dry matter basis) and 27.76% concentrate. Estimated energy content of the diet was 2,270Kcal of DE/Kg of dry matter. The buffalo steers had the highest (P<.01) average daily gain (1.044Kg), followed by the Charolais (.713Kg), Nelore (.605Kg) and Angus (.560Kg) steers. Daily dry matter consumption was 7.58; 7.07; 6.58 and 6.42Kg, respectively, for the Angus, Charolais, buffalo and Nelore steers (P<.05). The buffalo steers showed the best feed efficiency (P<.05).
feedlot; Charolais; Aberdeen Angus; Nelore; Mediterranean buffalo; liveweight gain; feed efficiency
