Pens Of Pigs Research Articles

168 Effects of Increasing Dietary Standardized Ileal Digestible Lysine Levels on Growth Performance of 12- to 26-kg Pigs Sired by High Index Boars

Abstract Our objective was to determine the effects of increasing dietary standardized ileal digestible (SID) lysine (Lys) on the growth performance of late nursery pigs. A total of 1,125 pigs (PIC 337×Camborough, initially 12.0±0.66 kg) were used in a 21-d study. The pigs used in the study were sired by boars ranked in the top 15% of a selected PIC elite boar stud based on index. Pens of pigs were blocked by body weight and randomly allotted to 1 of 5 treatments containing 0.95, 1.10, 1.20, 1.35, and 1.50% of SID Lys. Diets were corn-soybean meal-based and contained 2,480 Kcal of NE/kg. Treatments were achieved with increasing feed-grade amino acids. There were 9 mixed gender pens per treatment and 25 pigs per pen. Data were analyzed using generalized linear and nonlinear mixed models with pen as the experimental unit. Competing models included linear, quadratic polynomial (QP), broken-line linear (BLL), and broken-line quadratic (BLQ). Increasing SID Lys concentration improved average daily gain (ADG, linear, P < 0.001) and gain to feed ratio (G:F, quadratic, P = 0.011). The best-fitting models for ADG were QP and BLL. The QP model estimated the maximum ADG at 1.43% (95% CI: 1.12 to >1.50%), with 99% of maximum ADG achieved at 1.27%. The BLL plateau was estimated at 1.31% (95%CI: 1.06 to >1.50%). The best-fitting models for G:F were QP, BLL, and BLQ. The QP model estimated the maximum G:F at 1.48% (95%CI: 1.23 to >1.50%), with 99% of maximum G:F achieved at 1.24%. The BLL plateau was estimated at 1.30% (95% CI: 1.18 to 1.41%), whereas the BLQ plateau was estimated at 1.36% (95%CI: 1.14 to >1.50%). In conclusion, the estimated optimum SID Lys concentration for 12- to 26-kg pigs sired by high index boars ranged from 1.30 to 1.48%, depending on the response criteria and statistical model.

203 Effect of a Supplemental Water Source on Performance of Growing-finishing Pigs

Abstract Crossbred pigs (Fast Genetics 276 × PIC 800; n = 2,332; initial BW = 24.5 ± 1.6 kg) were used in two, 84-d growth trials to evaluate effects of an additional water source (fixed double nipple waterer) to a wet/dry feeder on growing-finishing pig performance. Pigs were assigned randomly to 1 of 2 treatments with 27 to 30 pigs per pen and 40 pens per treatment. Pens were equipped with a wet/dry feeder (SDI, drop shelf wet/dry feeder) or with a wet/dry feeder in combination with the additional water source. Marketing began on d 84 of each trial so the highest pig demands on feeders and waterers were assumed to occur from d 0 to 84 when all pigs were present in each pen. Growth data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS and removals, mortalities, and total removals were analyzed using a Chi-square test in SAS version 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). No significant interactions between trial and water treatment were observed, thus data were combined using water treatment as a fixed effect and trial as a random effect. No differences were observed for body weight on d 84, average market weight, or number of removals, mortalities, or total pigs removed (Table). Similarly, no evidence for differences in overall average daily gain, average daily feed intake, or gain efficiency were observed regardless of an additional water source. However, pigs given access to a supplemental water source displayed a numeric increase in water disappearance per pig compared to pigs in pens with only wet/dry feeders. In conclusion, addition of a fixed double nipple waterer to wet/dry feeders did not influence growth performance of growing-finishing pigs.

PSV-14 The Efficacy of Feeding a Bioactive Peptide in Comparison to Narasin in Growing Pigs in a Commercial System on Growth Performance and Efficiency

Abstract At 8-wk post-weaning, pens of split-sexed pigs (26.0 ± 0.25 pigs/pen; 31.3 ± 0.11 kg; DNA genetics) being housed in a commercial research unit were randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments to compare the growth performance and efficiency of the system’s commercial nutritional program that included narasin (Skycis™, Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, IN) at 13.6 g/tonne to a product (2 kg/tonne) containing a combination of bioactive peptides and enzymes (PEP; Peptiva® Optimo, Vitech Bio-Chem Corporation, Orange, CA). Dietary treatments were fed through 4 phases based on feed budgets. Pens were weighed bi-weekly through 59-d on test. There were 12 replications or pens per treatment. Feed was delivered and measured using a Feed Logic system and weigh backs were conducted utilizing a calibrated ruler. Average daily gain and feed intake were calculated on a pen basis. Data were analyzed as a mixed model with dietary treatment, gender, and treatment x gender interaction included. There were no interactions reported (P ≥ 0.0965). During the study pigs performed at or above their commercial counterparts. Overall, body weight, ADG, and ADFI were not impacted by treatment, but pigs fed PEP had an 2.1% improvement in feed efficiency compared to the narasin fed pigs. These results indicate that feeding bioactive peptides plus enzymes may improve feed efficiency without the need of an ionophore in the grower period in a commercial swine facility.

PSII-18 Effect of L-trp Source and Standard Ileal Digestible (SID) Tryptophan to Lysine Ratio on Growth Performance of Nursery Pigs

Abstract To evaluate the different sources of L-Trp on growth performance, a total of 288 weaned pigs (PIC1050 x DNA600) were stratified by gender and BW, and assigned to 1 of 7 dietary treatments. Treatments were control (devoid of feed grade Trp to create SID Trp/Lys = 17), and L-Trp from (Ajinomoto CO., INC., TrpA vs Daesang CO., LTD., TrpD) was added to form SID Trp:Lys ratios of 19, 21, and 23. Chlortetracycline (Zoetis Inc. Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ) was supplemented in phase 1 (6 d) &2 (9 d), and Mecadox (Philbro Animal Health Corp., Ridgefield Park, NJ) was added in phase 3 (10 d) while antibiotic free diets were fed in phase 4 (17 d). Individual pig BW and pen feed intake was measured at each phase to determine BW, ADG, ADFI and F:G ratio. Data were analyzed as Mixed procedure of SAS as RCBD. Orthogonal contrast was conducted to determine linear and quadratic response with SID Trp/Lys from 17 (control) to 23 for each source of L-Trp. Adding both sources of L-Trp had minimum impact on growth performance in phase 1–3. As in phase 4, a tendency and significant linear increase on ADG with increasing level of TrpA (P = 0.09) and TrpD (P = 0.04) was observed with the highest ADG in pigs fed TrpA19. Pigs fed increasing level of SID Trp/Lys from TrpA had a quadratic reduction on F:G ratio (P = 0.09). The results suggested that a Trp:Lys ratio over 17 may enhance growth performance and source of L-Trp may impact performance.

Effects of increasing dietary oil inclusion from different sources on growth performance, carcass and meat quality traits, and fatty acid profile in genetically lean immunocastrated male pigs

A total of 96 genetically lean immunocastrated male pigs were used in a 98-day study to evaluate the effects of including 3% soybean oil (SO), canola oil (CO), or fish oil (FO) in the diets vs. feeding a standard commercial diet with 1.5% SO (control) on growth performance, carcass and meat quality traits, consumer acceptability, and intramuscular fatty acid composition of the longissimus lumborum (LL) muscle. Pigs were blocked by initial body weight (BW; 28.44 ± 2.95 kg) and assigned to one of four treatments, with six replicate pens per treatment and four pigs per pen. Pig BW and pen feed disappearance were recorded weekly. At the conclusion of the study, pigs were slaughtered, carcass characteristics were measured, and a sample of the LL was removed for meat quality assessment, fatty acid composition analysis, and overall liking evaluation. Dietary treatments had no effect on overall growth performance and pig carcasses. Although loins from pigs fed diets containing either 3% SO or CO had decreased (P = 0.05) Warner-Bratzler shear force, only the addition of 3% SO to pig diets resulted in loin chops that were rated higher (P < 0.001) for consumer overall liking. Adding either 3% SO or CO increased (P < 0.01) the percentages of oleic acid and total monounsaturated fatty acids in the LL intramuscular fat compared to control- or FO-fed pigs. However, intramuscular fat from 3% SO- or CO-fed pigs had the lowest (P < 0.01) proportion of total omega (n)-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) than control- or FO-fed pigs. Including 3% oil, regardless of source, reduced (P < 0.01) total PUFA, total n-6 PUFA, and PUFA:saturated fatty acid (SFA) ratio than control-fed pigs. Dietary FO inclusion decreased (P < 0.01) n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio, but also increased total SFA (P < 0.01) and atherogenic index (P = 0.02) in the LL intramuscular fat. These results indicate that feeding genetically lean immunocastrated male pigs with diets containing 3% FO provided a healthier fatty acid profile in the loins, with the highest content of n-3 PUFA and the lowest n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio; however, pork quality that resulted in greater consumer acceptability was achieved when immunocastrated male pigs were fed 3% SO.

Evaluation of Enogen Feed Corn on growth performance and carcass characteristics of finishing pigs.

Enogen Feed Corn (EFC; Syngenta Seeds, LLC, Downers Grove, IL) hybrids contain a trait for expression of heat-stable α-amylase in the grain. α-Amylase is an enzyme responsible for breakdown of starch in the small intestine; supplementation of exogenous α-amylase to pigs may result in greater starch digestibility and thus improved gain efficiency. A total of 288 pigs (Line 600 × 241, DNA, Columbus, NE; initially 41.6 kg) were utilized in an 82-d trial to determine if replacing conventional yellow dent corn (CONV) with EFC in diets with or without distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) influences growth performance and carcass characteristics. Pens of pigs were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatments balancing for initial body weight. There were nine pens per treatment with eight pigs per pen (an equal number of barrows and gilts per pen). Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial with main effects of corn source (CONV or EFC) and DDGS (0% or 25%). Experimental diets were fed in meal form in three phases: days 0 to 29, 29 to 47, and 47 to 82. Pigs were weighed approximately every 2 wk and at the beginning of each phase. On day 82, pigs were transported to a commercial abattoir for processing and carcass data collection. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with pen as the experimental unit. There were no corn source by DDGS interactions (P > 0.05) observed for overall performance or carcass characteristics. Overall, average daily gain (ADG) was marginally greater (P < 0.089) for pigs fed EFC than CONV with no evidence (P > 0.196) for difference in average daily feed intake (ADFI), gain:feed ratio (G:F), hot carcass weight (HCW), or other carcass traits. Addition of DDGS decreased (P < 0.047) overall ADG and G:F. Pigs fed DDGS had marginally lower (P < 0.071) HCW, less (P < 0.050) backfat depth, greater (P < 0.026) loin depth, and greater (P < 0.020) percentage lean and carcass fat iodine value (IV). In summary, addition of 25% DDGS to the diet decreased ADG and increased carcass fat IV. Pigs fed EFC tended to have improved overall ADG; however, G:F and carcass characteristics were not different between corn sources. These results suggest that EFC, although not beneficial, may be used as a substitute for CONV without any deleterious effects on growth performance. Further research should be conducted to understand whether addition of EFC to swine diets could be beneficial in younger pigs exhibiting decreased pancreatic α-amylase secretion following weaning or whether heat treatment of diets, such as pelleting, may influence the response to EFC.

Robustness in quantifying the abundance of antimicrobial resistance genes in pooled faeces samples from batches of slaughter pigs using metagenomics analysis

ObjectivesWith the continued spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animals, it is important to assess its occurrence throughout a microbiome quantitatively in order to evaluate significantly affecting factors, e.g. antimicrobial usage. Metagenomics methods make it possible to measure the abundance of AMR genes in complex samples such as pooled faeces samples from batches of slaughter pigs. This study was performed to determine the random error in pooled samples from batches of pigs at slaughter and the measurement error from the metagenomics processes. MethodsIn four farms, two pooled samples were obtained from a batch of slaughter pigs by two individual samplers, and each pooled sample was thereafter processed twice. Hierarchically clustered heatmaps were applied to evaluate dissimilarities between samples. The coefficient of variation was used to calculate the percentage difference between samples from the same farm. ResultsResults of the analysis revealed that it was not possible to quantitatively separate the variation arising from sampling and metagenomics processes. They both contributed to the overall measurement error in batches of slaughter pigs. ConclusionSampling of single pigs in 30 randomly selected pig pens within the farms provides a composition representative for frequently occurring AMR genes present within the farms, while rare genes were not dispersed in a similar manner. Aggregating the resistance abundance at gene family or antimicrobial class level will reduce the apparent variation originating from errors in sampling and metagenomics processing.

Performance of growing pigs and finisher broilers housed together

Growth performance and cost of feeding young growing pigs and finisher broilers under integrated broiler pig production system were investigated. Four young growing pigs (the control) were housed in pen A and fed B of their body weight as commercial growers feed. Another 4 were housed in pen B with broilers in cages placed above them and given 2% of their body weight as commercial growers feed and allowed to make up with droppings from the broilers above. Another 4 were housed without broilers in pen C and given 2% of their body weight as commercial growers feed and droppings collected from broilers housed without pigs in pen D. Each pig within a treatment was tagged and regarded as a replicate. The broilers were put in the cages at week 5 and given broiler finisher feed ad libitum. They were removed at 9 weeks of age and replaced with another batch similarly raised, a process that was repeated 3 times in the 12-week trial. The growth rate of the pigs of the control group was statistically similar to that of the group housed with broilers (P&gt;0.05) bur significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher than that of the group housed without broilers. There were no significant differences (P&gt;0.05) in the feed intake, growth rate and feed conversion ratio of the broilers housed with pigs and those housed without pigs. Cost analysis of the production systems showed that N104.00 was spent on feed to produce 1.0kg live weight of pigs in the control group and N65.00 for the other two groups.

Effect of space allowance and mixing on growth performance and body lesions of grower-finisher pigs in pens with a single wet-dry feeder

BackgroundLow space allowance (SA) and mixing may result in reduced growth performance (GP) and animal welfare issues because of adverse social behaviours directed to pen mates. This could be exacerbated in pens with single space feeders owing to social facilitation of feeding behaviour. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of SA and mixing on GP and body lesions (BL) in pens with one single space wet-dry feeder.ResultsTwo experiments were conducted on grower-finisher pigs from 10 to 21 weeks of age. In Exp1, pigs (N = 216) were assigned to three SA; 0.96 m2/pig (n = 6 pens; 10 pigs/pen; SA96), 0.84 m2/pig (n = 6; 12 pigs/pen; SA84) and 0.72 m2/pig (n = 6; 14 pigs/pen; SA72), in a randomized design. In Exp2, pigs (N = 230) were used in a 2 × 2 factorial randomized design considering SA and mixing as treatments. Pigs were assigned to two SA; 0.96 m2/pig (n = 10 pens; 10 pigs/pen; SA96) and 0.78 m2/pig (n = 10; 13 pigs/pen; SA78) and were either mixed or not at the entry to the finishing facility. GP was not affected by SA (P > 0.05) in either experiment. In Exp2, non-mixed pigs were 5.4 kg heavier (P < 0.001), gained 74 g more per day (P = 0.004), consumed 101.8 g more of feed per day (P = 0.007) and tended to have higher feed efficiency (P = 0.079) than mixed pigs from 11 to 21 weeks of age. Number of BL was affected by SA in both experiments. In Exp1, SA72 pigs had 74.4 and 97.4% more BL than SA96 and SA84 pigs at 20 weeks of age respectively (P < 0.01). In Exp2, SA78 pigs had 48.6, 43.6 and 101.3% more BL than SA96 pigs at 12, 16 and 21 weeks of age respectively (P < 0.05). Mixing did not affect the number of BL from 12 to 21 weeks of age in Exp2 (P > 0.05).ConclusionMixing had a considerable effect on growth performance thus, strategies to avoid or mitigate mixing should be considered. Although space allowance had no effect on growth performance, high number of body lesions in the lower space allowance indicates that space allowances equal or below 0.78 m2/pig are detrimental to the welfare of pigs despite following the EU legislation.

Marine macrophyte composition during summer, southwest and northeast monsoons in Verde Island, Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines

Verde Island Passage is the world’s center of the center of marine shore fish biodiversity, located in southwestern Luzon Island in the Philippines. The passage is named after Verde Island, which is located at its middle. Although the island is located within a key biodiversity area, studies on its marine macrophyte biodiversity are scant. The present study was conducted to determine the composition, distribution, and dominance of marine macrophytes, specifically seaweeds and seagrass, during the northeast monsoon, summer, and southwest monsoon in four coastal areas in Verde Island using the line transect-quadrat method. Results revealed 63 macrophyte species, of which 92% were seaweeds and 8% were seagrass. The majority of the seaweeds were green (41%), followed by red (35%) and brown (16%) seaweeds. In most sites, the brown seaweed Padina sp. was dominant during summer and cover decreased during both monsoons. The green seaweed Neomeris annulata was present in all sites and seasons. The differences in cover across sites may be due to substratum type and topography where a relatively wider intertidal zone with different substratum such as rocky and sandy to muddy provides complex habitat promoting higher macrophyte cover. Temporal differences in marine macrophyte composition were more pronounced in macroalgae-dominated sites than in the seagrass-dominated site. Several important seaweeds that could be studied as bioindicators were recorded, such as Padina sp., which registered high cover especially in sites near populated areas and backyard pig pens. Ulva spp., which are known to form green tide blooms, and Caulerpa verticillata were also noted and should be monitored. Some red seaweeds with potential for cultivation were observed (i.e., Halymenia durvillei and Portieria hornemannii). Claudea sp., an uncommon red seaweed with limited distribution in the Philippines, was recorded and needs verification. This study is the first extensive marine macrophyte assessment at the heart of the Verde Island Passage. KEYWORDS: biodiversity, bioindicator, eutrophication, microbenthic algae, seagrass, Verde Island Passage

Effects of Standardized Ileal Digestible Lysine Level on Growth Performance in 120 to 170 lb DNA Finishing Pigs

The objective of this study was to estimate the SID Lys requirement for growth and feed efficiency of 120- to 170-lb finishing pigs. A total of 700 barrows and gilts (600 × 241, DNA; initial BW of 117.2 ± 1.89 lb) were used in two separate studies, each lasting 21-d. Pens of pigs were blocked by BW and randomly allotted to 1 of 6 dietary treatments with 8 to 10 pigs per pen in a randomized complete block design. A similar number of barrows and gilts were placed in each pen. Dietary treatments were corn-soybean meal-based and formulated to 0.65, 0.72, 0.79, 0.86, 0.93, and 1.00% SID Lys, with 12 replications per treatment. Increasing SID Lys increased (linear, P < 0.001) ADG, with pigs fed 1.00% SID Lys having the greatest final BW. In addition, increasing SID Lys decreased (quadratic, P = 0.004) ADFI. Feed efficiency improved, while Lys intake/d, and Lys intake/kg of gain increased (quadratic, P < 0.005), with increasing SID Lys. At both high and low ingredient and pig prices, feed cost/pig increased (quadratic, P < 0.05) as SID Lys increased, while feed cost/lb of gain decreased (quadratic, P < 0.001), with pigs fed 0.79% SID Lys having the lowest feed cost/lb of gain. At high and low feed prices, increasing SID Lys increased (linear, P < 0.002) IOFC. A linear model resulted in the best fit for ADG and predicted that the maximum ADG response was beyond 1.00% SID Lys. For F/G, the quadratic polynomial model predicted a requirement of 0.97% SID Lys. At high ingredient and pig prices, the broken-line linear model to maximize IOFC predicted that there was no further significant improvement to IOFC past 0.76% SID Lys. Meanwhile, at low ingredient and pig prices the quadratic polynomial model predicted a requirement of 0.91% SID Lys to maximize IOFC, however, a similar fitting linear model predicted maximum IOFC response at greater than 1.00% SID Lys. In summary, the optimal SID Lys level for 120- to 170-lb finishing pigs depends upon the response criteria, with growth performance optimized at or greater than 0.97% SID Lys and IOFC maximized between 0.76 to 0.91% SID Lys.

Effects of Standardized Ileal Digestible Lysine Level on Growth Performance in 170 to 220 lb DNA Finishing Pigs

The objective of this study was to estimate the SID Lys requirement for growth and feed efficiency of 170- to 220-lb finishing pigs. A total of 616 barrows and gilts (600 × 241, DNA; initially 168.3 ± 2.7 lb BW) were used in two separate studies each lasting 21 d. Pens of pigs were blocked by BW and randomly allotted to 1 of 7 dietary treatments with 8 to 10 pigs per pen in a randomized complete block design. A similar number of barrows and gilts were placed in each pen. Dietary treatments were corn-soybean meal-based and formulated to 0.58, 0.65, 0.72, 0.79, 0.86, 0.92, and 1.00% SID Lys. There were 11 replications per treatment for levels of 0.65, 0.72, 0.79, 0.86, and 0.92% SID Lys; 6 replications for the 0.58% SID Lys treatment; and 5 replications for the 1.00% SID Lys treatment. Increasing SID Lys increased (linear, P = 0.022) ADG. Feed efficiency (quadratic, P = 0.034) improved, while Lys intake/d, and Lys intake/kg of gain increased (linear, P < 0.001) with increasing SID Lys. At both high and low ingredient and pig prices, feed cost per pig (linear, P < 0.001) and feed cost/lb gain increased (quadratic, P < 0.05), and total revenue per pig tended to increase (linear, P = 0.051) as SID Lys increased. However, at both high and low ingredient and pig prices, there were no differences in income over feed cost (IOFC) among dietary treatments. The broken-line linear model to maximize ADG predicted that there was no further improvement to ADG past 0.83% and for F/G, the quadratic polynomial model predicted a requirement of 0.90% SID Lys. However, similar fitting linear models predicted maximum ADG and F/G greater than 1.00% SID Lys. Income over feed cost at high ingredient and pig prices was predicted by the QP model to be maximized at 0.78% SID Lys. Meanwhile, at low ingredient and pig prices, the BLL model predicted maximum IOFC at 0.76% SID Lys, or lower. In summary, the optimal SID Lys level for finishing pigs from 170 to 220 lb depends upon the response criteria, with growth performance maximized between 0.83 to 0.90% SID Lys. Income over feed cost was maximized at 0.78% SID Lys or lower.

Estimating the Net Energy Value of Expelled, Extruded Soybean Meal When Fed to Nursery Pigs

Solvent-extracted soybean meal (SSBM) is typically used as the primary protein source in swine diets in the United States. Mechanically extracted or expelled soybean meal (MSBM) typically has increased concentrations of fat and decreased concentrations of essential AA compared to SSBM, but MSBM has been demonstrated to have improved AA digestibility. This study aimed to estimate the NE value of MSBM relative to SSBM and to determine its effects on growth performance of late nursery pigs. A total of 297 pigs (241 × 600, DNA) were weaned (BW 11.2 lb) and placed into 60 pens (2 rooms of 30 pens) with 5 pigs per pen balanced by gender and weaning weight. Pigs were fed a common diet for 21 days. Then, pens of pigs (BW 20.7 lb) were randomly assigned to one of five treatments to provide 12 replications per treatment. Treatments consisted of increasing amounts of MSBM replacing SSBM in the diet (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%). All diets were fed for 28 days and were formulated to 1.30% standardized ileal digestible lysine, and met or exceeded NRC2 recommendations for Lys:AA, Ca, and P. The SSBM has an NRC2 NE value of 946 kcal/lb and the 0% MSBM diet was formulated to 1091 kcal/lb and NE was not balanced between diets. Analyzed values for CP, ether extract, crude fiber, and total Lys for the SSBM were 47.28%, 0.47%, 3.80%, and 3.00%, respectively, while the MSBM contained 47.41%, 6.88%, 5.32%, and 2.99% respectively. The MSBM had increased values for KOH solubility and trypsin inhibitor (83.62 and 7026 TIU/g, respectively) compared to the SSBM (73.05 and 3011 TIU/g, respectively) while urease activity was similar between the two (0.03 vs. 0.02 Δ pH, respectively). Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX (SAS v. 9.4) with pen as the experimental unit and room as the blocking factor. There was no evidence of differences in ADG and ADFI in pigs fed diets with increasing concentrations of MSBM. Pigs fed diets with increasing concentrations of MSBM had improved (linear, P < 0.001) F/G and caloric efficiency on an NE basis. In conclusion, using caloric efficiency to estimate NE of the MSBM relative to SSBM, MSBM was estimated to have a value of 123% of SSBM NE or 1,164 kcal/lb. This increase in NE resulted in improved feed efficiency of nursery pigs.

Effects of Standardized Ileal Digestible Lysine Level on Growth Performance in 230 to 285 lb DNA Finishing Pigs

The objective of this study was to estimate the SID Lys requirement for growth and feed efficiency of 230- to 285-lb DNA finishing pigs. A total of 679 barrows and gilts (600 × 241, DNA; initial BW of 228.8 ± 2.9 lb) were used in two separate studies lasting 21- and 28-d, respectively. Pens of pigs were blocked by BW and randomly allotted to 1 of 6 dietary treatments with 8 to 10 pigs per pen in a randomized complete block design. A similar number of barrows and gilts were placed in each pen. Dietary treatments were corn-soybean meal-based and formulated to 0.43, 0.50, 0.57, 0.64, 0.71, and 0.79% SID Lys, with 12 replications for the 0.43, 0.50, 0.57, 0.71, and 0.79% SID Lys treatments, and 11 replications for the 0.64% SID Lys treatment. Increasing SID Lys increased (linear, P = 0.043) ADG, and improved (quadratic, P = 0.020) feed efficiency, resulting in pigs fed the diet containing 0.71% SID Lys having the greatest final BW and most optimum F/G. At high and low ingredient and pig prices, increasing SID Lys increased (quadratic, P = 0.004) IOFC. The broken-line linear model to maximize ADG predicted that there was no further improvement past 0.64% SID Lys. For F/G, the broken-line linear model predicted that there was no further improvement past 0.59% SID Lys. At high ingredient and pig prices, the quadratic polynomial model for IOFC predicted maximum economic return at 0.64% SID Lys. Additionally, at low ingredient and pig prices, the quadratic polynomial model for IOFC predicted maximum economic return at 0.62% SID Lys. In summary, the optimal SID Lys level for DNA finishing pigs from 230- to 285-lb depends upon the response criteria, with growth performance maximized between 0.59 to 0.64% SID Lys. Economic responses were maximized between 0.62% SID Lys and 0.64% SID Lys.

An AIoT Monitoring System for Multi-Object Tracking and Alerting

Pig farmers want to have an effective solution for automatically detecting and tracking multiple pigs and alerting their conditions in order to recognize disease risk factors quickly. In this paper, therefore, we propose a novel monitoring system using an Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) technique combining artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT). The proposed system consists of AIoT edge devices and a central monitoring server. First, an AIoT edge device extracts video frame images from a CCTV camera installed in a pig pen by a frame extraction method, detects multiple pigs in the images by a faster region-based convolutional neural network (RCNN) model, and tracks them by an object center-point tracking algorithm (OCTA) based on bounding box regression outputs of the faster RCNN. Finally, it sends multi-pig tracking images to the central monitoring server, which alerts them to pig farmers through a social networking service (SNS) agent in cooperation with an oneM2M-compliant IoT alerting method. Experimental results showed that the multi-pig tracking method achieved the multi-object tracking accuracy performance of about 77%. In addition, we verified alerting operation by confirming the images received in the SNS smartphone application.

Effect of pens with an elevated platform on space utilization, skin lesions and growth performance in nursery pigs

Environmental enrichment, adequate space and the ability to separate a living area into suitable functional areas are key elements for pig welfare. In this study, a two-level pen for nursery pigs was explored with the aim of analysing the use of space and the impact on pig behaviour, health and performance. Therefore, per batch, three experimental groups in pens with elevated platforms (two-level pens) and one control group in a standard pen were formed after weaning at the age of 4 weeks. Thereafter, groups were studied for a period of 6 weeks. In a total of eight batches (n = 882 pigs), the occurrence of skin lesions was determined per individual using a lesion score, and in seven batches (n = 761 pigs) individual daily weight gain was analysed. In five batches (n = 450 pigs), the individual use of space and the behaviour of pigs were investigated by direct observation (4 h per day on 2 days in weeks 1, 3 and 6 of the housing period, respectively). Results revealed that 98.9% of pigs (n = 445) were observed on the elevated platform at least once. The probability that an individual pig used the platform was significantly higher than 0.95 (P < 0.0001, confidence interval = 0.977, 1). The use of the platform was not affected by sex (odds ratio (OR) = 1.013, P = 0.937). However, the probability of observing an individual on the elevated platform increased with increasing BW during the experimental period (OR = 1.043, P < 0.0001). The presence of a platform decreased the probability of seeing a pig fighting (P = 0.014) and increased the probability of observing locomotor behaviour as opposed to lying (P < 0.0001). In two-level pens, pigs sustained fewer skin injuries than in standard pens (day 41: OR = 0.731, P < 0.0001). Over 41 days of experiment, pigs in two-level pens had higher daily weight gains than animals in standard pens (416 versus 393 g/day, P = 0.006). We conclude that usable space for nursery pigs can be effectively extended by introducing elevated platforms into the pigs’ pen. Furthermore, pigs may benefit from two-level systems by establishing spaces for activity as well as for retreat from other pen mates, thereby reducing aggressive behaviour and social stress. The installation of two-level pens is therefore encouraged, if they are intended to provide more space than legally stipulated.

How do People look at Pictures of Pigs? Analyzing Fixation Duration Depending on Pig Expression and Barn Type using Eye-Tracking

Using eye-tracking, this study investigates fixation duration of students viewing pictures of pigs, which systematically vary in the facial expression of the pig and in the barn setting. The aim of this study is to analyze which picture elements are viewed and for how long, as well as how fixation times vary with a change of the expression of the pig and the barn type. The results show clear effects of picture composition: pig expression and pen type affect fixation durations of different areas of interest with the influence of the pig being considerably larger. Face regions are viewed longer in the “happy” pig, while floor/bedding and the eyes are viewed longer in pictures showing the “unhappy” pig which might be a hint for information search. The power of facial expressions, also for the depiction of farm animals, is a new finding of this paper, which might be of importance when selecting agricultural pictures for different purposes.

265 Evaluating the route of antibiotic administration and its effect on nursery pig growth performance

Abstract A total of 2,592 pigs (L337×1050, PIC, Hendersonville, TN; initially 5.58 kg BW) were used in a 28-d study to evaluate the route of antibiotic administration (in-feed vs in-water) on pig performance. Pigs were weaned at 21 d of age and placed in a commercial research facility with 27 pigs per pen. After a 7-d pre-trial period, pens of pigs were assigned to weight blocks in a randomized complete block design. There were 12 replications per treatment with pen as experimental unit for in-feed medication treatments and a pairs of pens as the experimental unit for water medication treatments. Treatments included a control (no medication), chlortetracycline (CTC) provided via feed or water to achieve 22 mg/kg BW, tiamulin in feed (5 to10 mg/kg BW) or water (23 mg/kg BW), or a combination of CTC and tiamulin in feed. Experimental treatments were provided for 14-d followed by a 14-d period without medication. Data were analyzed using R Studio (Version 3.5.2). From d 0 to 14, there was an antibiotic×route of administration interaction for ADG and G:F. For ADG, pigs fed diets containing CTC had increased (P&amp;lt; 0.05) ADG compared with those fed tiamulin in feed, with pigs provided CTC or tiamulin in the water intermediate. For G:F, pigs provided tiamulin in feed had decreased G:F compared to pigs fed CTC in feed or CTC or tiamulin supplied in water. Pigs fed CTC in the diet had increased ADFI compared to the control with pigs provided antibiotics in the water or tiamulin in feed intermediate (P&amp;lt; 0.05). Pigs provided the combination of CTC and tiamulin in feed were not different than those provided CTC in feed. There was no evidence of difference among treatments in subsequent performance. In summary, providing CTC in feed with or without tiamulin improved nursery pig growth performance.

PSVI-9 Mint oil, yeast cell, and ɣ-tocopherol supplementation in gestation and lactation diets on offspring performance during the post-wean period

Abstract Weaning is a period of pig growth associated with increased incidence of oxidative stress which can impact post-weaning performance. Inclusion of feed additives with antioxidant activity in sow diets has been reported to improve offspring growth beyond the suckling phase. A study assessed yeast cell, mint oil, and ɣ-tocopherol supplementation in sow gestation and lactation diets has on offspring post-weaning performance. A total of 605 piglets (6.14 ± 2.53 kg BW) from 53 sows were randomly allotted to 62 pens, balanced by weight and litter within maternal diet [Control diet (CON), control + yeast cell at 0.15% (YC), control + mint oil at 10 ppm (MO), and control + ɣ-tocopherol at 200 ppm (GT)]. Pens of pigs were given a common diet for 126 d post-wean in a 9-phase feeding regimen. After d29 post-wean, performance of pigs deemed light (&amp;lt; 5.10 kg) and heavy (&amp;gt;7.25 kg) at weaning were followed to d126. Performance was analyzed as randomized complete block with pen as experimental unit and Tukey’s adjustment as means separation test. Pigs from CON sows tended to be lighter pigs from all other treatment groups at weaning and d29 post-wean due to differences in daily gain. Lightweight MO and GT pigs had a heavier weight at d42 (P=0.002) than CON and YC pigs (16.8, 16.7, 19.3, and 19.9 ± 0.77 kg in CON, YC, MO, and GT, respectively). At d70 post-wean, GT pigs tended to be heavier than CON pigs, with YC and MO intermediate. Lightweight pigs from MO sows had greater gain (P=0.04) during the finishing period than all other treatment groups, with GT pigs gaining less. There were no detectable differences in BW during the finishing phase among treatments in heavyweight pigs, however, CON pigs tended (P=0.07) to gain the least. Exposure to mint oil and ɣ-tocopherol during the prenatal and suckling period may provide lasting benefits to light-weight pigs post-wean.

132 Performance response of the grow-finish pig (38 to 142 kg) fed different levels of tryptophan:lysine in diets containing 40% dry distiller grains with solubles

Abstract Dried distiller grains with solubles (DDGS) is a popular protein source in grow-finish swine diets to replace soybean meal. An experiment was conducted at the South Dakota State University commercial swine research facility to determine the effect of standardized ileal digestible (SID) Trp:Lys ratio in grow-finish swine diets containing 40% DDGS compared to a standard corn-soybean meal diet. A total of 1,170 pigs (38.6 ± 0.2 kg initial BW) were utilized in a 98-d trial (9 pens per treatment). Pens of pigs were randomly allotted to 1 of 4 DDGS dietary treatments providing SID Trp at 15, 18, 21, and 24% of Lys or a corn-soybean meal diet (18%). Diets were isocaloric, with lysine at 100% of the requirement. From d 0 to 82, increasing Trp:Lys ratio in DDGS diets improved (P &amp;lt; 0.01) BW, ADG, and ADFI with no effect on F:G. Pigs fed the corn-soybean meal diet had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.01) BW, ADG, ADFI, and F:G compared to the DDGS diets with the exception of the ADFI of the 24% Trp:Lys treatment. From d 82 to 98, increasing SID Trp:Lys in DDGS diets had no effect on performance. Overall (d 0 to 98), increasing SID Trp:Lys in DDGS diets increased (P &amp;lt; 0.02) final BW and ADG, but pigs failed to perform to the same degree as the corn-soybean meal diet. Increasing SID Trp:Lys in DDGS diets resulted in an increase in hot carcass weight (P &amp;lt; 0.01); however, diets containing DDGS had decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.02) hot carcass weight, dressing percentage, percent lean, and loin depth compared to pigs fed the corn-soybean meal diet. These results indicate that increasing the SID Trp:Lys in diets containing 40% DDGS improved performance in early grow-finish phases with no effect in late finishing, but performance was inferior to standard corn-soybean meal diets.