Genetic Evaluation of Post Weaning Growth Performances in Large White Yorkshire Cross Bred Pigs

Background: The profitability in swine production is mostly associated to the superior growth performance. The information pertaining to the genetic and non-genetic factors influencing growth traits is significant to enable animal breeders to adopt better selection and managemental methods. Methods: Data from 50% LWY-Desi genetic group and 75% LWY-Desi genetic group that were maintained at the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Pigs, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati were used to understand the effect of genetic and non-genetic parameters on production traits. Result: The genetic group, period of birth, season, parity and sex have significant influence on post weaning body weights in most of the ages. Certain age groups showed significant effect on post-weaning average daily gain; but no specific trend was observed for age groups between the two genetic groups. The heritability estimates for post weaning body weights and ADG were medium to high in both the genetic groups. The genetic and phenotypic correlations among post-weaning body weight were inconsistent in direction. Overall, the 75% LWY-Desi genetic group performed better than 50% LWY-Desi genetic group, presumably due to the higher exotic inheritance and genetic superiority.