Pig breeds

Question 1

What are the 2 common ancestors of pigs?

Answer 1

Sus scrofa - European Wild boar

Sus vittatus - Far Eastern pig

Question 2

What is the scientific name of the modern pig?

Answer 2

Sus domesticus

Question 3

Describe the Middle white pig

Answer 3

Originated in Yorkshire

Best known for its sharply upturned snub nose

Small fatty carcass

known as a pork producer

Question 4

Describe the large White pig

Answer 4

Originated in Yorkshire

White pig with upright ears

World-wide, the most widespread of modern pigs

Very high growth rate (>750g/d) - late maturing

Sows mature above 300kg

Large litters (11-13), high milk production, excellent
maternal instincts

Meaty, lean carcass - the modern Large White is one of the leanest of all pig
types (55-60% lean)

Docile, low stress susceptibility

Question 5

Describe the Landrace breed?

Answer 5

• White pigs with ears hanging forward (lop-eared)

• Original Scandinavian type are long and lean, but not very
muscular

• Modern Landrace mostly descendants of the Danish pig and more slected for bacon production

• Fast growing, long bodies, lean meat, muscular

• Susceptible to PSE (Pale, Soft, Exudative meat)

• Stress susceptible

• Landrace now mainly used in crossing with Large-White