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Evaluating Capacity or Volume
Capacity refers to the amount of body
volume a heifer possesses, and is necessary so that
heifers are able to perform at a high level while
maintaining her body condition. Capacity is typically
associated with production and performance traits
and is determined by body width (spring of rib),
depth, and length. Heifers should be wide bodied
with good spring of rib. Depth should be uniform
from front to back with more than 50% of a heifer's
height from the top of her back to the ground being
body depth. Heifers with good capacity will also
be long bodied.
Below, the heifer on the left lacks adequate
capacity, being very narrow bodied with no spring
of rib. The heifer on the left is too short bodied
and lacking in depth, especially through her rear
flank.
Below, the rear view of the heifer shown in
the left shows excellent rib shape along with
the correct depth and body volume. The heifer
in the right picture illustrates excellent body
depth that is uniform from front to rear.
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