By computer simulation the effect of variation in input and output prices on economic returns from three calf production systems was examined. Production of F1 Holstein × Gir calves was more profitable than Nelore × Nelore or F1 Angus × Nelore calf production, primarily because the market value of F1 Holstein × Gir heifer calves was substantially higher than that of any other calf type. Variation in semen price had little impact on economic efficiency of the F1 Holstein × Gir system. In simulations accounting for capital investment, however, prices of land and of purebred Gir cows had important influences.
beef cattle; F1 Holstein × Gir; F1 Angus × Nelore; economic performance
