PSVIII-22 Utilization of NUtrack to assess sire influence on pig activity and activity effects on weight

Abstract

Abstract Structural conformation and behavior are integral components in sows remaining productive in the herd. This initial investigation studied the impact of activity data on weight and the impact of sires on overall activity of group housed replacement gilts. Beginning at 19 wk of age, video recorded data of approximately 75 gilts/wk for a total of 230 gilts over 3 wk was collected for 7 consecutive d using the NUtrack system, which tracks distance travelled (m), time standing (s), eating (s), and laying (s), and angle rotated (degrees). Any d that logged for less than 24 hr were dropped from analysis. Data were analyzed using mixed models (SAS V 9.4) including random effects of dam, barn, pen, and on-test date, and fixed effects including total laying time, angle rotated, distance travelled, time standing, and sire. For 20 wk wt, the mixed model included distance, laying, angle, and standing. Sire had an effect on distance traveled (P < 0.05). The following traits also had an effect on distance: angle (P < 0.01), laying (P < 0.001), standing (P < 0.001), sitting (P < 0.01), and eating (P < 0.01). Pearson correlation coefficient showed a positive correlation between wt and laying (0.26), and negative correlations between wt and distance (-0.34), standing (-0.28) and angle (-0.42). The regression of distance on 20 wk wt yielded a regression coefficient of -0.027 (P < 0.05) m/d per lb and the model explained 11.85% of the variation in 20 wk wt. NUtrack can be utilized to track activities and distance travelled of swine in group pens. Given the results presented herein, continued investigation into the heritability of these activity traits and their association with sow longevity is warranted.