Selection of pigs based on breeding environment

Pigs of different breeds and varieties exhibit varying levels of sensitivity to environmental temperature, largely depending on their production performance. In general, pigs with higher productivity tend to have weaker stress resistance and are more sensitive to uncomfortable temperatures. Thin-backed pigs, for example, lose heat more easily, which means they require a warmer environment. The larger the body surface area (often associated with longer body length), the more heat is lost, making these pigs more vulnerable to cold conditions. In China, the commonly raised breeds include Dika, Pietrain, PIC, and Sanyuan, while crossbreeds are mostly three-way hybrids. Local breeds, often referred to as "earth pigs," are also widely kept. Compared to local breeds, high-performance breeds typically have better growth rates but require more controlled environmental conditions. Among the high-quality breeds, Pietrain and Landrace are particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. They perform best in stable, moderate climates. In contrast, PIC pigs have slightly better environmental tolerance, although they demand higher nutritional inputs. During hot summers, Pietrain and Landrace sows are especially at risk from heat stress, so it's crucial to provide them with optimal living conditions to maintain reproductive efficiency and overall health. Most large-scale pig farms in China focus on these high-performance breeds, and their facilities usually meet the necessary environmental standards. As a result, during the recent heatwave, these farms experienced fewer losses. In such operations, about 70% of the total cost is allocated to managing the temperature in pig houses, ensuring feed efficiency and maximizing economic returns. For three-way crossbred pigs, the environmental requirements are slightly broader, making them more adaptable to the typical conditions found in Chinese farm sheds. Many small and medium-sized farms, especially those run by households, rely on these crossbreds. However, due to limited capital and outdated management practices, many of these farms maintain high stocking densities without proper insulation or cooling systems. This lack of environmental control contributed to significant disease outbreaks last year. These farms typically spend around 80% of their budget on feed, with very little investment in improving the living conditions of the pigs. It’s important to recognize that pigs cannot reach their full potential in poor environments, and prolonged exposure to stressful conditions can severely impact their health, increasing the risk of disease and financial loss. Local pigs, or "earth pigs," are still raised in some rural areas and small farms. Due to lower stocking densities, these pigs are generally more resilient and suffer fewer diseases. These farms often use traditional methods, allowing pigs to adjust their behavior to cope with temperature changes. Their environmental needs are minimal, but this comes at a cost—local breeds have lower feed conversion rates and grow more slowly, leading to lower profitability. As a result, many of these farms are gradually exiting the market. Overall, the choice of breed significantly influences the success of pig farming, not only in terms of productivity but also in managing environmental challenges and maintaining animal health.

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