Pig breeds

Question 1

What are the characteristics of the landrace pig? What are they selected for?

Answer 1

Very versatile.
Performs well indoor or in outdoor systems.
Sows produce and rear large litters with good daily gain and high lean meat content.
Ideal for fresh pork or bacon production.

Question 2

What are the main characteristics of the large white pig? What are they selected for?

Answer 2

Rugged and hardy breed.
Can withstand variations in climate and environmental factors.
Often crossed to improve other breeds.

Question 3

What are the main characteristics of the berkshire pig? What are they selected for?

Answer 3

‘Primitive’ breed
Medium sized with pricked ears, white socks, a white blaze and a white tip to the tail.
High levels of IM fat. So is selected for flavour

Question 4

What are the main characteristics of the tamworth pig? What are they selected for?

Answer 4

Oldest pig breed.
Small, red coated, longest snout of modern domestic pig breeds.
Very hardy and resistant to sunburn.
Good mothering ability.
Crossed for outdoor lines.

Question 5

What are the main characteristics of the Meishan pig? What are they selected for?

Answer 5

Native to climate in Southern China.
Large drooping ears and wrinkled skin.
Large litters: 15-25 piglets.
Early puberty.
Crossed in to increase litter size.

Question 6

What are the main characteristics of the Kunekune pig of New Zealand? What are they selected for?

Answer 6

Associated with hobby breeders.
Small breed with short legs and short snout. Some have tassels that hang from the lower jaw.
Natural habitat is woodlands and pasture.
Fatten on grass and are disinclined to roam.
Excellent ration of meat:fat

Question 7

What are the main characteristics of the Duroc pig? What are they selected for?

Answer 7

Purebred = red
Good mothering ability and docility.
Therefore is crossed in for outdoor lines.
Marbling and heavy muscling makes to suitable for any type of pork production.

Question 8

What are the main characteristics of the Gloucester Old Spot pig? What are they selected for?

Answer 8

Oldest spotted pedigree.
Placid and easily managed.
Sows have a large litter and a high milk production.
Therefore crossed in for increasing litter sizes and milk production.