Phenotypic trends for traits of the growing pig and the sow

Abstract

<b>Looking backwards to move forward</b> <p>Information about changes in performance of commercial pig populations is limited in Australia. At the workshop in 2006, genetic and phenotypic trends for the period from 2000 to 2005 were reviewed demonstrating genetic and phenotypic improvement in key performance traits such as growth rate, backfat and litter size (Hermesch, 2006). The average annual genetic gains from 2000 until 2005 based on 28 populations were 5 grams per day for growth rate, -0.15 mm for backfat and 0.07 piglets per litter for number of piglets born alive. Although phenotypic trends for eight Large White populations corresponded well with these genetic trends, data were limited in regard to the number of populations and traits investigated as well as the time period considered. Therefore, it was the aim of this study to provide a general overview of phenotypic trends for performance traits of the growing pig and the sow from 1996 until 2009 in Large White, Landrace and Duroc populations. Further papers presented at this workshop will then provide more detailed information about genetic and non-genetic factors influencing individual traits. It is hoped that discussions at the workshop will foster adoption of a wider range of traits for the development of strategies that combine genetic potential with the appropriate management practices to optimise performance and welfare of pigs.</p>