The effect of the growth rate and meatiness of young gilts during rearing on the growth and development of their reproductive system

The effects of reproduction performance of sows may be subject to the degree of progress growth and development of their reproductive system. The aim of the study focused on the effect of the growth rate and meatiness on the potential fertility of gilts. In total, developmental stages of reproductive organs of gilts of two breeds Polish Large White (n = 100) and Polish Landrace (n = 100) were used. The animals were divided into three groups depending on their daily gains (less or equal 850 g, 851 - 1000 g and more than 1000 g). Feed efficiency was similar in each group, and amounted to 2.91, 2.57 and 2.34 kg/kg, respectively. Meat content in carcass demonstrated significant differences between three groups for the Polish Landrace breed (61%, 61% and 59.2%, resp.). An adverse effect of a high growth rate was confirmed for uterine weight, vaginal and cervical length, total length of the uterine horns and uterine capacity mainly in the Polish Large White breed. Similarly to ovarian volume, ovarian weight showed significant differences, however disproportionately to the rate of growth. The most favourable properties have been demonstrated in the Polish Large White characterized by moderate growth rate. Research on the scope of the assessment growth and development of the reproductive system of prepubertal gilts is very limited. Thus, this study brings important data about factors affecting morphometrical characteristics of the uteri, ovaries and oviducts of gilts.