ANSC Feeds Practice Exam

What percentage of total feed energy is used to produce market animals (steers and heifers) from weaning to harvest?

1. 10%

2. 20%

3. 30%

4. 40%

The correct answer is: 30%

To determine the percentage of total feed energy used to produce market animals like steers and heifers from weaning to harvest, one must consider the life stage and the energy requirements during this period. The correct answer indicates that approximately 30% of total feed energy is typically dedicated to this phase of production. During the growth phase, steers and heifers undergo significant weight gain as they are fed a diet optimized for energy intake, which supports muscle development and overall growth. This percentage reflects a balance between growth efficiency and metabolic needs. The target of reaching a suitable market weight while managing feed costs makes understanding energy allocation crucial in livestock production systems. Understanding that energy requirements for growth in market livestock are substantial helps explain why a significant portion of total feed energy, specifically around 30%, is allocated to this developmental stage. In contrast, lower percentages would suggest either underfeeding or inefficient growth strategies, which would not result in optimal market weights at the time of harvest.