Genetic parameter estimates for growth performance of crossbred piglets

Abstract

The direct heritability estimates for piglet weights in pre and post weaning stages were moderate and improvement through mass selection is plausible. In the pre-weaning stage, the piglets had maximum genetic potential at birth (BW) to be exploited through direct selection. The 3 random effects, namely direct additive, maternal additive and litter permanent environmental effects had significant roles during different phases of pre-weaning growth and all must be included in the model used for formulating a breeding program. For post-weaning traits, the direct additive and permanent litter effects were the predominant factors governing the variability. The non-significance of postweaning maternal influence was as per expectation because the piglets moved away from maternal care after 8thweek of age.