GROWTH AND CARCASS TRAITS OF DUROC X (LARGE WHITE YORKHSIRE X LANDRACE) PIGS UNDER DIFFERENT FEEDING REGIMES

An experiment was conducted to assess the growth performance and carcass traits of Duroc x (Large White Yorkshire x Landrace) pigs under different feeding regimes. Twenty four weaned piglets were divided Into four groups of six animals each. First group (T1) was maintained on farm concentrate. Piglets belonging to T2, T3 and T4 were fed with swill feed. In addition to this, T3 and T4 group were supplemented with inorganic and organic minerals @ 1% of dry matter, respectively. There was no significant difference in monthly body weights, body measurements, ADG and average daily feed intake between T1 and T2. T4 was significantly (P<0.01) better than others. There was significant (P<0.01) difference in feed efficiency between T1 and T2. T4 attained significantly (P<0.01) higher slaughter weight, hot carcass weight and carcass length than other treatment groups followed by T3, T2and T1. T1 had significantly (P<0.01) higher dressing percentage; lesser back fat thickness and gut weight than other treatment groups. T2 had significantly (P<0.01) lesser loin eye area and meat-bone ratio than other treatment groups. It was found that swill feed was equally effective compared to concentrate feed in promoting growth of fattener pigs. Carcass characteristics and growth promotion could be improved by supplementation of minerals In the diet of fattener pigs.