The objective ofthis study was to evaluate the correlated responses to selection for growthin feed efficiency and carcass traits of Nellore animals. A total of 121 animalsof the Nellore control (NeC) and selection herds were subjected to performancetesting and classified regarding residual feed intake (RFI). Sixty-seven ofthese animals were selected and finished until reaching 4 mm of subcutaneousfat thickness between the 12th and 13th ribs. The animals were slaughtered ata mean age of 541 days and mean live weight of 423 kg for NeS and of 363 kgfor NeC, and carcass traits were measured. Animals in NeS presented higher initialand slaughter weights, dry matter intake, hot and cold carcass weight, weightof retail cuts, and carcass yield than NeC animals for the same slaughter ageand feedlot time. No significant differences in RFI were observed between herds,showing that the weight gain from selection for growth did not cause changesin the energy efficiency of the animals.
