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The study aimed at developing predictive equations to estimate carcase tissue composition in Blackbelly sheep using the 9th–11th rib section and to evaluate its accuracy and precision. Twenty male growing Blackbelly sheep with a bodyweight (BW) of 29 ± 3 kg were slaughtered. Data from carcase and non-carcase components were recorded. Thereafter, the left half carcase was weighed and dissected to record weights of fat (CF), muscle (CM), and bone (CB). Also, the 9th–11th section was dissected for muscle, fat and bone (MRib, FRib, BRib, respectively). The MRib and FRib were moderate to highly correlated (p <.001) with CM and the r values ranged from 0.47 to 0.82, while the FRib and the CF were positive correlated (r = 0.68, p <.001). Also the left half carcase weight (LHCW) was positively correlated (p <.001) with carcase tissues and the r values ranged from 0.57 for CF to 0.93 CM. Regression equations developed for predicting CM, CF and CB in Blackbelly sheep using the 9th–11th rib section had an r2 that ranged from 0.61 to 0.90. Predictions had moderate to high precision (r2 > 0.59 ≤ and ≤ 0.92). All equations had high accuracy (> 0.96), moderate to high reproducibility index and concordance (CCC > 0.74 and ≤ 0.96) and moderate to high efficiency of prediction (from 0.58 to 0.91). Overall, results showed that the 9th–11th rib section could accurately be used as an option for predicting carcase tissue composition in Blackbelly sheep.HIGHLIGHTS Muscle and fat from the 9th–11th rib section were moderate to highly correlated with carcase muscle weight. Fat from the 9th–11th rib section was positive and moderate correlated with carcase fat weight. The 9th–11th rib section could be used as an option for predicting carcase tissue composition in Blackbelly sheep.

The objective of this study was to develop predictive equations for carcase composition using neck tissue composition as predictors in multiparous Pelibuey ewes (n=50, body weight = 39 ± 7 kg and body condition score = 2.56 ± 0.98 points) were used to develop predictive equations for carcase tissue composition and weight from neck composition traits applying multiple linear regression. The accuracy of the model was evaluated considering the values of determination coefficient (r 2) and root mean square error (RMSE). Carcase and neck traits showed a positive relationship (p ˂.01) and the correlation coefficient (r) ranged from 0.44 to 0.78, being stronger for hot (HCW) and cold (CCW) carcase weights with neck traits. Except for neck bone weight, all neck traits resulted to be suitable predictor variables (p ˂.0001) for carcase muscle (MW) and fat (FW) weight as r 2 values ranged from 0.63 to 0.74. In the equation for carcase bone weight, only neck muscle weight was a predictor. However, r 2 value was low (r 2 = 0.29; p ˂.0001). Overall, results suggest that carcase and neck traits showed a positive relationship. The weight of the neck and its content of muscle and fat could be used to predict the composition of the carcase tissue in non-pregnant and non-lactating multiparous Pelibuey ewes.Highlights The relationship between carcase composition and neck tissue from Pelibuey ewes was evaluated. Except for neck bone weight, all neck traits resulted to be suitable predictor variables for carcase muscle and fat. The neck traits can be used to predict carcase tissue composition in multiparous Pelibuey ewes.