Does the Degree of Fatness and Muscularity Determined by Ultrasound Method Affect Sows’ Reproductive Performance?

Abstract

The fatness and muscularity of Polish Landrace, Polish Large White gilts and sows and their hybrids were determined on the basis of ultrasound measurements in three consecutive parities, and then the relationship between these parameters and reproductive performance was established. Ultrasound measurements demonstrated the highest fat thickness in first parity and the highest fat area over LD muscle in hybrid gilts (PL × PLW). Pure-bred gilts were characterized by poorer muscularity. Fatness level affected the reproductive parameters of females in which the thickness of backfat in UP2 point was above 22.25 mm, the thickness of backfat in UP4 point was above 17.36 mm and the fat area over LD muscle was above 25.81 cm2. These females achieved better farrowing rates and higher numbers of born piglets. Decreased mortality, higher gains of piglets and higher body weight at weaning were observed, and the weaning to service interval was shortened in fatter females. Intramuscular fat content did not affect reproductive parameters. Muscularity negatively affected reproductive performance parameters, except gestation period. Too-high muscularity was related to the lowest levels of reproductive indices. The analysis of gilts and sows’ fatness and muscularity levels can help to predict their reproductive performance in the future and thus optimize production results.