A comparative analysis of reproductive performance of different pig breeds under intensive management systems in sub-tropical climate

Abstract

A comparative study was undertaken to evaluate the reproductive performance of various pig breeds reared under intensive system of rearing in sub-tropical climate. Trends in reproductive performance were studied in different breeds with respect to age at puberty and first fertile service, weaning to estrus interval (WEI), farrowing interval, litter size and farrowing indices. Analysis of data revealed earlier age at puberty in Ghungroo (7.8±0.41 months) and crossbred pigs (7.86±0.17 months). Correspondingly, age at first fertile service were earlier in crossbred sows (8.94±0.16 months) and Ghungroo (9.3±0.43 months). In general, an extended WEI could be observed in all breeds and the delay was more pronounced in primiparous compared to multiparous sows. Litter size at birth was significantly higher in Ghungroo (8.7±0.25) and crossbreds [HS × GH (8.5±0.48) and HS × NM (8.2±0.55)] in comparison to other groups. Average numbers of piglets weaned per sow were significantly higher in Ghungroo sows and its crosses. Average pre-weaning mortality was found to be significantly lower in crossbreds with Hampshire-desi crosses having the lowest rate (2.94%). Out of all groups, crossbreds had a higher farrowing index value of 2.01 while indigenous breeds had a relatively lower farrowing index (1.72). Significant influences of different genetic groups on various reproductive variables were observed in the present study while environmental factors and selection practices also appeared to contribute overall variations in the reproductive performance.