Selection for efficient lean growth on restricted feeding in large white pigs

Abstract

Pigs from a strain selected for high post-weaning daily gain on restricted feeding had a fast growth rate, low backfat, efficient feed utilisation and high carcass lean percentage. These pigs wasted less food in maintenance heat production and thus had better adaptation to a high temperature climate. Sows of the high growth line produced piglets with heavier weights at birth, giving a potential for better viability of piglets in the pre and post-natal growth periods, and increased weight of piglets weaned per sow per year. It is concluded that selection for high growth rate on restricted feeding will produce pig strains with high lean growth and an adaptation to heat stress, which suits to the needs of the pig industries of Australia, Vietnam and neighbouring Asian countries.

Project funded by ACIAR