Genetic variation in the efficiency of energy utilization by the fattening pig

Abstract

ABSTRACTAn analysis was performed on data from three breeds recorded at the Pig Testing Station in Antrim in order to estimate and apportion variation in the measure of efficiency considered here, namely the daily food consumption after allowance had been made for maintenance and production requirements and other fixed effects. Results suggest that a considerable proportion of the variation in residual consumption is due to genetic causes (h2 = 0·3) and that selection to exploit this variation would result in an appreciable reduction in food costs. There were indications of considerable litter effects upon the trait.