Melissa raises commercial breeding cattle; on which of the following selection criteria should she emphasize for her cattle herd?

Emphasizing structural correctness in a cattle breeding program is crucial for long-term success and productivity. Structural correctness refers to the overall form and conformation of the animal, including the skeletal structure, muscle development, and balance of proportions. Cattle with proper structural correctness are generally more vigorous and have better mobility, which positively affects their overall health and ability to reproduce.

Additionally, cattle that exhibit sound structure are less prone to injuries and health issues, allowing for improved longevity in the herd. This is particularly important in a breeding operation where the focus is not only on the individual animals but also on how those traits are passed down to offspring.

While weight gain, feed efficiency, and fertility rates are all important factors in raising cattle, they can be influenced by the animal's structural soundness. For example, animals that are well-structured tend to have better feed efficiency and growth rates due to their ability to move comfortably and utilize feed effectively. They are also more likely to have better than average fertility rates since poor structure can lead to complications during breeding and calving.

Thus, prioritizing structural correctness helps ensure a healthier, more productive herd that can achieve optimal performance in these other areas.