Direct and maternal breed effects on growth and milk intake of piglets: Meishan versus Dutch breeds

Abstract

Cross fostering techniques were used to evaluate pre-natal (direct genetic and maternal) and post-natal (maternal) breed effects in Meishan and Dutch breeds on milk intake and growth of piglets during the suckling period and growth after weaning. Meishan as well as Dutch sows nursed mixed litters of Meishan and Dutch piglets. Birth weight of Dutch as compared to Meishan piglets was 56% higher. The effects of this birth weight difference on milk intake and growth of piglets were studied. Data on 44 mixed litters nursed by 21 Dutch and 23 Meishan sows were available. At an average birth weight difference, growth rate from birth to 21 and 21–35 d was 25 and 31% higher for Dutch than for Meishan piglets respectively, while milk intake per piglet at days 13 and 30 of lactation was 38 and 36% higher, respectively. Differences between Dutch and Meishan sows were small. Higher growth during the suckling period of Dutch as compared to Meishan piglets was mainly caused by their higher birth weight. Results indicate that Meishan sows have good maternal characteristics, i.e. significantly lower piglet mortality and the ability to raise also the heavier, more demanding Dutch piglets.