The steaks, roasts, and hamburger meat that are commonly used as a source of protein in our diets are cut mainly from the round, loin, rib, and chuck. The cuts made from the primal cuts are called subprimal cuts. The way the subprimals are cut determines the quality of the final cut and its cost. Less expensive cuts of beef are cut from the brisket, plate, and flank. Breeds of Beef Cattle The species name for cattle is bovine. Within the bovine species, there are two subspecies, Bos Taurus, which describes the breeds that originated in Europe (England, Scotland, France, Germany, and Italy), and Bos Indicus, which describes cattle from more tropical countries (Asia, Africa, and India), Figure 10-10. A breed is a specific group of cattle that has similar appearance, characteristics, and behaviors that distinguish it from other cattle in the same species. Bos Indicus breeds of beef cattle have Brahman influence in their pedigree. They are typically well suited to warmer climates and have a higher resistance to diseases and insects. They are very popular in the southeastern part of the United States because of their heat tolerance and ability to thrive on limited forage. There are many other breeds of beef cattle other than those covered in the following sections. Several of the breeds discussed in the following sections also have miniature breeds that have evolved such as Miniature Herefords, Lowline Angus, and Minature Zebu to name a few. To find out more about breeds of beef cattle, contact the specific breed association. Did You Know? There are more than 50 breeds of cattle in the United States and over 800 breeds recognized worldwide. Bos Taurus (these countries are England, Scotland, France, Germany, Italy) Bos Indicus (Asia, Africa, India) ekler/Shutterstock.com Figure 10-10. The subspecies Bos Taurus and Bos Indicus each originated in specific areas of the world. Are there certain characteristics or traits that developed in each subspecies that enabled them to thrive in their respective environments? 516 Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.