Answer to Question #124905 in Zoology for Sabelo Xolani Mlangeni

Question

Discuss physical soundness in pigs as important characteristics in selection of the breeding stock.

Answer 1

Selection aspects include: offspring from large litters, brilliant muscles and back fat readings. Similarly, reaching adult size by 1 year of age, with no genetic defects, as well as medium to large body building, and easy to handle type of a breed.

Besides, the breed to be selected should be easily available, should not cause diseases to the already existing herd and as well as should not lower the overall health status of the existing herd. A thorough investigation should be conducted to ascertain the disease history of the pigs before breeding them. All veterinary reports should be assembled with the tests results with the specific disease tested and how frequently is that test undertaken.

The breeding history should also be put into consideration. Production parameters, growth, and as well as food conversion rates of that type of pig might be of great importance in selecting of a sound breed for mating. Assessing of the biochemistry of the donor should be put into consideration for ascertaining how the materials were or are brought into the herd.