The optimum moment for the selection for reproduction of young sows from the Marele Alb breed and Periş S.L. 345

Abstract

The objective of this paper was to estimate the optimum moment of selection for reproduction of young sows, which is a significant animal breeding factor, represented by the registration of the respective animals on a scale of body weight, in correspondence with the biological age. The results of experiments conducted on young sows for reproduction have registered differences between groups, as concerns the reproductive indices, resulting in the reconsideration of the notion of the optimum moment of their selection for reproduction. The weight of young sows at the first fertile covering has influenced the reproduction activity, at different degrees, indifferently of studied breed or synthetic line. The young sows with body weight between 90-100 kg and over 100 kg, have obtained additional values at main studied reproductive parameters: fecundity, prolificacy, number of viable pigs, sucking capacity and weight of pigs group at weaning. The influences due to the age of first covering presented some aspects concerning the percentage of parturient, non-pregnant females, the percentage of abortions and pregnant young sows eliminated from the stock. The main reproductive parameters varied according to the age of first fertile coverings, indifferently of breed or synthetic line.