Using the 9th–11th rib section to predict carcase tissue composition in Blackbelly sheep

The study aimed at developing predictive equations to estimate carcase tissue composition in Blackbelly sheep using the 9th–11th rib section and to evaluate its accuracy and precision. Twenty male growing Blackbelly sheep with a bodyweight (BW) of 29 ± 3 kg were slaughtered. Data from carcase and non-carcase components were recorded. Thereafter, the left half carcase was weighed and dissected to record weights of fat (CF), muscle (CM), and bone (CB). Also, the 9th–11th section was dissected for muscle, fat and bone (MRib, FRib, BRib, respectively). The MRib and FRib were moderate to highly correlated (p <.001) with CM and the r values ranged from 0.47 to 0.82, while the FRib and the CF were positive correlated (r = 0.68, p <.001). Also the left half carcase weight (LHCW) was positively correlated (p <.001) with carcase tissues and the r values ranged from 0.57 for CF to 0.93 CM. Regression equations developed for predicting CM, CF and CB in Blackbelly sheep using the 9th–11th rib section had an r² that ranged from 0.61 to 0.90. Predictions had moderate to high precision (r² > 0.59 ≤ and ≤ 0.92). All equations had high accuracy (> 0.96), moderate to high reproducibility index and concordance (CCC > 0.74 and ≤ 0.96) and moderate to high efficiency of prediction (from 0.58 to 0.91). Overall, results showed that the 9th–11th rib section could accurately be used as an option for predicting carcase tissue composition in Blackbelly sheep.HIGHLIGHTS Muscle and fat from the 9th–11th rib section were moderate to highly correlated with carcase muscle weight. Fat from the 9th–11th rib section was positive and moderate correlated with carcase fat weight. The 9th–11th rib section could be used as an option for predicting carcase tissue composition in Blackbelly sheep.