Indeed, one of the strongest sectors of the Brazilian economy is cattle ranching, an activity that averages around 75 billion per year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. Furthermore, this is one of the few sectors that have not been affected by the crisis and, in fact, it is expected to grow in the coming years. The significant progress is related to the number of cattle heads in the country, which forms the largest commercial herd in the world, totaling 214 million animals. According to IBGE, in 2018 alone, 30.6 million heads were processed throughout the national territory. In addition, our country has a great diversity of breeds and excellent genetic development capable of selecting superior performing animals for beef and milk production. Want to know more about the most popular cattle breeds in Brazil? Check out the list we, from 7MBoots, have prepared for you!
Highly sought after by meat producers, the Nelore breed predominates in national territory. Cattle from this group are identified by their white coats, which can have light gray tones. Additionally, they have pointed ears and short horns, although some variations are polled, meaning they do not have horns.
The first zebu breed brought to Brazil is also one of the oldest in the world. Guzerás are known for their large horns curving upward. The coat can vary from light to dark gray. This breed, very fertile and highly drought-resistant, can be directed for both beef and dairy production.
Above all, the Gir breed was brought to Brazil in 1911 and has since been one of the most suitable for beef and milk production. Animals belonging to this group have long horns that twist downward. Their coats range from red to yellow, sometimes featuring spots. Quite docile, Gir females possess strong maternal abilities.
Originating from a cross between Nelore, Guzerá, Sindi, Cangaian, and InduBrasil breeds, the Brahman breed was established in national lands in 1994. Its coloration can be light gray, dark gray, or red. The breed has no horns, and its ears are of medium size. It is indicated as beef cattle.
This breed was created from crosses between zebu, Gir, and Guzerá breeds, and despite being genuinely Brazilian, the animals are also bred in many other countries across South America. The Tabapuã coat varies from white to gray and is hornless. Additionally, due to its good musculature, the animals are widely used for meat production.
The Sindi breed, originating from the Sindi province in Pakistan, arrived in Brazil in 1952 and consists of resistant animals capable of surviving in dry locations with little forage without losing weight. Because of this, they are raised in northeastern regions. Additionally, they are small, with short horns and reddish coats. Versatile, they can be utilized for both meat and milk production.
This type of Portuguese taurine cattle was brought to Brazil during the colonial period. The breed, considered rustic, can achieve fattening levels even in compromised pastures. Very resistant to diseases, they have yellow or orange coats and are widely used as beef, dairy cattle, and also as draft animals.
The InduBrasil breed emerged in 1930 from a cross between Nelore, Gir, and Guzerá breeds. Animals can have white, gray, or reddish coats. Additionally, they possess medium-sized horns and are widely used as beef cattle.
The most famous taurine breed in Brazil is known for its high fertility and precocity, as they can reach puberty and slaughter weight earlier. The major differentiator of this breed is the quality of its meat, which is marbled and extremely tender.
This French breed is one of the most recommended for meat production. Furthermore, it is also widely used in the country for breeding hybrids, such as the Chanchim Cattle. Additionally, it has white or cream-colored coats, pink nostrils, and is one of the most recommended for fattening and confinement.
So, cowboys and cowgirls, did you enjoy learning a little more about the most popular cattle breeds in Brazil? Stay tuned to the 7MBoots website, we are preparing many interesting topics for you!
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