The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of single-sex (barrows or gilts) and mixed rearing on growth performance, backfat thickness and meat quality in crossbred [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc] growing-finishing pigs. A total of 120 pigs were used in this 15-wk growth trial. Pigs were allotted to 3 treatments based on their initial BW (10 replications; 4 pigs per pen). The treatments included: TRT1: mixed rearing (2 barrows and 2 gilts per pen); TRT2: barrows; TRT3: gilts. There was no significantly difference in growth performance between barrows, gilts and mix reared during the growing-finishing period (P>0.05). Barrows had significantly higher backfat thickness than gilts throughout the entire trial (P<0.05). Additionally, the meat quality were similar between sexes (P>0.05). 1447851794.php
Effect of single-sex (barrows or gilts) and mixed rearing on growth performance, backfat thickness and meat quality in crossbred growing-finishing pigs
Date : 2015-12-15 Volume : 7