EVALUATION OF SOME PRODUCTIVE TRAITS IN LARGE WHITE AND DUROC BREEDS

A total of 20 sows from two populations of Large White and Duroc breeds were analyzed for the number of piglets born alive per litter, litter size and the average daily gain. Gestation period lasts 15 days more in Duroc breed. Litters/sows/year was 2.4 and 2.2 in Large White and Duroc respectively. The litter size was 11.8 and 9.7 piglets in Large White and Duroc respectively. This difference is easily noticed until the 28th day of lactation period. Milk yield from Large White sows on first parity was 67.2 kg, meanwhile from the Duroc sows 55 kg. The litter size of Large White breed increases through second and third parity by 0.8 and 1.4 piglets respectively. The mean piglet birth weight was1460 gram and 1320 gram for Large White and Duroc respectively. This difference was displayed until 28 days of lactation period. Piglets mean weight was 7.3 kg and 6.9kg for Large White Duroc respectively. From this age to onward, Duroc breed displayed a better performance regarding this indicator. The results obtained here, shows that Large White has a larger birth litter size and a better growth rate until 28 days of age. Meanwhile, Duroc breed shows a high growth rate and this trait is passed down to next-generation. The two populations indicate variability for each distinct trait, which is very important for selection