The effect of energy intake during rearing on reproductive traits in gilts.

Authors

  • L.A. den Hartog

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18174/njas.v32i4.16885

Abstract

The effect of energy intake from 12 until 38 weeks old on reproductive performance in 538 Dutch Landrace gilts was studied. Four treatments based on different amounts of energy (about 3.0 M, 2.5 M, 2.1 M and 1.8 M; M = metabolizable energy required for maintenance) were tested. All received a similar daily amount of protein per kg bodyweight. Conception rate was lower for gilts (67 and 64%) at the 2 higher amounts of energy intake than for gilts at the 2 lower (both 76%). A significant interaction for ovulation rate was found between energy intake and oestrus number at average age of 8.5 months. Number of piglets born alive, average birthweight and homogeneity of the litter (measured as s.d. of birthweights within a litter) were not clearly affected by energy intake. The pooled regression coefficients of average birthweight on weight of sow on the day before farrowing and rate of gain during the last 100 days of pregnancy were significant (P<0.01). The effect of induction of gilts with PG600 on the ovulation rate seemed to be dependent on weight or fatness of the gilts. (Abstract retrieved from CAB Abstracts by CABI’s permission)

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Published

1984-11-01

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Section

Papers