Neonatal zoometry as a predictor of productive performance in Ts'üdi Xirgo Creole piglets
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Abstract
The conservation of animal genetic resources is a key component of food security and rural development in Mexico. However, some populations are at risk of disappearing, such as Creole pigs, which are maintained in small rural production systems where high mortality rates and limited productivity of suckling piglets remain major constraints. This study evaluated whether neonatal zoometric measurements could predict productive performance during lactation in ts'üdi xirgo Creole piglets. At birth, piglets were weighed (birth weight; BW) and the following zoometric measurements were recorded: head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC), thoracic circumference (TC), and body length (BL). Additionally, zoometric indices were calculated, including body mass index (BMI) and ponderal index (PI). Multivariable regression models were constructed to identify combinations of variables associated with improved productive traits during lactation, including body weight at day 21 (W21), weaning weight (WW), and average daily gain (ADG). Models included one zoometric measurement and one zoometric index at birth as fixed variables, while days of lactation (DL) were included as a blocking factor. Results showed that the combination of BW, TC, PI, and DL provided the best prediction for W21 (P = 0.001) and WW (P = 0.003). In contrast, ADG was best explained by the variables BW, BL, PI, and DL (P = 0.01). These findings suggest that neonatal physical characteristics are important predictors of productive performance in Creole piglets. The implementation of tools and protocols for early identification of piglets at risk could improve management strategies during lactation, reduce pre-weaning mortality, and contribute to the conservation and productive sustainability of native pig populations, thereby supporting the livelihoods of rural families involved in Creole pig production.
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