Performance evaluation, feces production and digestibility of nutrients in pigs from different genetic groups

Abstract

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the performance, feces production and digestibility of the main ingredients in feed of different pig genotypes. Forty eight pigs (24 barrows and 24 gilts) averaging 50.81 ± 4.63 kg until 81.14 ± 6.55 kg of body weight and 93.63 ± 6.08 days of age were used. Four treatments represented by four lineages were used: 1- commercial pig breeding line, selected for growth and lean meat production; 2- commercial pig breeding line, selected for prolificacy; 3- crossbred animals (Landrace x Large White); 4- non selected genetic line. Two animals were housed per pen and they received isonutrient and isoenergetic and feed and water ad libitum. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 4x2 factorial arrangement (genetic lines, genders). A greater average daily gain was observed to hybrid animals selected for lean meat production compared to animals selected to prolificacy and a greater feed conversion was observed for the hybrid animals for lean meat (P<0.05). Total feces production (natural matter basis) had a lower level (P<0.05) for the hybrid animals for lean meat production compared to the hybrid group for prolificacy and non-selected genetic group. The animals without selection showed lower digestibility indexes for natural matter (P<0.05) and the nonselected genetic group and crossbred animals (Large White x Landrace) showed the lowest digestibility index for phosphorous. Pigs select for growth and lean meat production are more efficient in converting food into meat and have less fecal production. According the gender, the females are more efficient to the performance parameters.