Understanding Nitrogen Efficiency in Beef Cattle: Insights from Seven Years of Research
Abstract
This seminar summarises seven years of research on nitrogen metabolism in northern Australian beef systems. Across multiple studies, δ¹⁵N in tail hair emerged as a clear indicator of whole-animal nitrogen efficiency: animals with lower δ¹⁵N retain more nitrogen, perform better under nutritional or heat stress, and achieve superior growth and reproductive outcomes. With moderate heritability, δ¹⁵N offers real potential for identifying efficient and resilient cattle.
A/Prof Luis Prada e Silva
Dr Luis Prada e Silva is an Associate Professor at QAAFI, University of Queensland, specialising in ruminant nutrition. His research explores the biological mechanisms that drive feed efficiency and maternal performance in tropical cattle, supported by strong industry and scientific partnerships. With experience in Brazil, Australia, and the United States, he brings a global perspective to northern beef systems. He has led multiple major research programs, published widely, and supervised numerous HDR students, integrating nutrition, physiology, and genomic tools to improve cattle productivity.
A/Prof Luis Prada e Silva, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Agriculture and Food Innovation E: l.pradaesilva@uq.edu.au
For any questions, please contact the QAAFI Science Seminar Committee.
For any questions, please contact the QAAFI Science Seminar Committee.
About Science Seminars
Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation hosts science seminars across the disciplines of animal, horticulture, crop, food and nutritional sciences.
With a range of speakers from Australia and abroad, the series explores how high-impact science will significantly improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the tropical and sub-tropical food, fibre and agribusiness sectors.
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The Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation is a research institute at The University of Queensland, established with and supported by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries.