Pig SAQ's

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Questions and Answers

Name the two main breeds of pigs used in commercial production in Ireland.

Landrace and Large White.

What is the duration of the oestrus cycle in pigs?

21 days.

How long is the gestation period for pigs?

115 days.

What is the duration of oestrus in pigs?

2-3 days. Signup and view all the answers

In pig production, what type of pigs are commonly used to produce crossbred sows?

Purebred pigs. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of criss-cross breeding in pig production?

It enhances genetic diversity and productivity. Signup and view all the answers

How do you calculate the number of days it takes for a pig to reach finishing weight?

By tracking weight gain per day and dividing the desired finishing weight by the average daily gain. Signup and view all the answers

What does FCR stand for in pig farming, and how is it calculated?

FCR stands for Feed Conversion Ratio and is calculated by dividing the feed intake (in kg) by the weight gain (in kg). Signup and view all the answers

What factors might affect the daily feed intake of pigs on a farm?

Factors include age, weight, breed, and overall health of the pigs. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to differentiate between various nutrition rations for pigs?

Different growth stages have unique nutritional needs that affect overall health and productivity. Signup and view all the answers

How could breed variety impact the amount of feed required for finishing weight?

Different breeds have varying growth rates and weight goals, impacting overall feed needs. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the lactating sow ration play in pig production?

It provides adequate nutrition to support milk production and the growth of piglets. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of improving FCR in animal production?

To increase output while maintaining or reducing production costs. Signup and view all the answers

How does management influence FCR according to the text?

Health and disease-free animals improve FCR. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of 'rescue decks' in pig management?

They are used for pigs weaned onto artificial milk replacer. Signup and view all the answers

Why is temperature control important in pig housing?

It prevents pigs from using energy from feed to stay warm. Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of overcrowding in pig housing?

It results in stress or bullying among the pigs. Signup and view all the answers

What accreditation scheme is mentioned in the context of pig housing and management?

Bord Bia accredited scheme. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of providing environmental enrichment materials to pigs in commercial production?

To encourage their natural rooting instinct and prevent unnatural behaviours such as tail biting. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of export markets in the context of sustainable and environmentally friendly pig production systems?

Export markets play a crucial role in ensuring the economic viability of pig production systems, which in turn enables farmers to invest in sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the potential consequences of not providing adequate environmental enrichment for pigs in commercial production?

Pigs may exhibit unnatural behaviours such as tail biting, and may also experience increased stress and reduced welfare. Signup and view all the answers

How do disease and health issues in pig production impact farm economics and the adoption of sustainable practices?

Disease and health issues can have significant economic impacts on pig farms, and may also influence the adoption of sustainable practices such as improved biosecurity and health monitoring. Signup and view all the answers

What role do crossbred sows play in commercial pig production, and why are they commonly used?

Crossbred sows are used to combine the benefits of different breeds, such as improved fertility and growth rate, and are commonly used in commercial production due to their hybrid vigour. Signup and view all the answers

How do consumer demand and export markets influence the adoption of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in pig production?

Consumer demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly pork products can drive the adoption of these practices in pig production, particularly in export markets where these standards are more commonly required. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Breeds

The two main breeds used in commercial pig production in Ireland are Landrace and Large White.
Purebred pigs are used to produce crossbred sows for meat production.

Oestrus Cycle and Breeding

Length of Oestrus Cycle: 21 days
Duration of Oestrus: 2-3 days
Gestation period: 115 days

Fatteners

Tag number, breed, live-weight at day 0, average daily gain (DLG), finishing weight, and number of days to finishing weight are key factors in pig production.
Feed conversion ratio (FCR) is an important metric in pig production.

Nutrition

Different rations are fed depending on the stage of production (weaner ration, fattener ration, dry sow ration, and lactating sow ration).
Protein percentage varies in each ration.
Improving FCR can increase output while maintaining or reducing production costs.

Management

Health and disease-free animals improve FCR.
Use of rescue decks, where pigs are weaned onto artificial milk replacer, is a management strategy.
Temperature-controlled housing prevents pigs from using energy from feed to keep warm.

Housing

No overcrowding results in no stress or bullying.
Each house is temperature-controlled to prevent pigs from using energy from feed to keep warm.

Handling and Housing of Pigs

Handling and housing of pigs are critical aspects of pig production.

Optimal Animal Health and Welfare

Providing environmental enrichment materials to encourage natural rooting instinct and prevent unnatural behaviors such as tail biting is essential.
All pigs should be provided with environmental enrichment materials.

Bord Bia Accredited Scheme

The scheme is mentioned in the context of pig production.

Delivering Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Production Systems

Pig production has an impact on the environment.

The Impact of Pig Production on Farm Economics and the Importance of Export Markets

Pig production has a significant impact on farm economics.
Export markets are important for pig production.

Disease of Pigs

Disease is a critical aspect of pig production.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the main breeds used in commercial pig production in Ireland, specifically Landrace and Large White. It covers the characteristics of each breed and their relevance in meat production. Test your knowledge on pig breeds and their management!