Phenotypic characteristics of native pigs in Bhutan

Abstract

The study objectives were to characterize the phenotypic characters and understand the socio[1]cultural role of native breeds of pig in Zhemgang dzongkhag (district). A field survey was conducted in two villages in Bardho gewog (block) under Zhemgang dzongkhag. Stratified random sampling method was used for selecting households and semi- structured questionnaire was used for interviewing farmers. Data was collected from 35 households in villages of Digala and Langdurbe. Morphological traits and reproductive performance, both in males and females, were measured separately. Forty percent of the farmers reared village pigs in two villages. Over 46% of pigs had black coat color and over 25% had some skin pigmentations. The mean adult body weight was 47.83±16.6kg for males and 35.93±16.1kg for females. Over 80% of pigs had erect ears with upward or backward orientation. The mean litter size was 5.71±1.04. The mean age at first farrowing was 14.54±0.76 years. There was no significant correlation between reproductive parameters except for the litter size at birth and weaning. Native pigs were reared predominantly under extensive management systems with occasional tethering. Farmers possessed limited knowledge on pig farming and improved management practices though pigs were reared for commercial purposes. Easy management, low cost of production, and disease tolerance were the main advantages of village pigs.