Preweaning losses of piglets as a result of index selection for reduced backfat thickness and increased growth rate

Abstract

Index selection for reduced backfat thickness and increased postweaning growth rate resulted in increased preweaning death losses due either directly or indirectly to the sow in the Yorkshire and Hampshire breeds. This resulted in a reduced percentage of piglets weaned in the Yorkshire breed. Key words: Swine, selection index, preweaning period, mortality, survival