Breeding Physiology

Selection for Litter Size by Using the Ratio of Piglet Weight: Placental Weight as a Measure of Placental Efficiency

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Abstract

The Chinese have been selectively breeding pigs for 7,000 to 10,000 years for increased numbers of pigs born, regardless of birth weight, indirectly resulting in the optimization of placental size and vascularity. In the United States, pig producers have generally selected for larger piglets at birth, resulting in a marked variation in placental size and vascularity. This tremendous variation in placental size and vascularity present within a litter may be ultimately limiting litter size. Therefore, by selecting against the large relatively avascular placentae, the potential for dramatically increasing litter size exists.

Keywords: ASL R1490

How to Cite:

Wilson, M. E., Biensen, N. J. & Ford, S. P., (1998) “Selection for Litter Size by Using the Ratio of Piglet Weight: Placental Weight as a Measure of Placental Efficiency”, Iowa State University Animal Industry Report 1(1).