Articles - Genetics and reproduction

This article covers the main sow-related factors that can cause regular returns to estrus.

This article covers the main semen- or boar-related factors that can cause regular returns to estrus.

Turopolje pig is a fatty-type pig breed created during the Middle Ages in Turopolje region in Central Croatia. Due to its modest demands, resilience and good adaptation to outdoor rearing, the Turopolje pig has been an important food source for the local population for centuries.

Total returns to estrus should not exceed 8%; if they do, we must ask ourselves when they occur.

The traditional, local breed Schwäbisch-Hällisches Schwein, was developed about 200 years ago in the region of Hohenlohe in Baden-Württemberg, Germany.

For several years now, post-cervical insemination has become common on most pig farms. In this article we review with Javier Gil, a specialist in swine reproduction and artificial insemination, what to keep in mind in order to do this technique correctly.

Sarda pig breed (a.k.a. Suino Sardo) is a local breed from Sardinia Island (Italy) with its ancestors dating back to to 2nd millennium BC.

Origins of Nero Siciliano pig date to Carthaginian domination and its rearing, after a setback during the Arab period, was rather diffused throughout Sicily.

This second article analyzes data for the breedings done on weekday holidays in Spain in 2018, although the results can be extrapolated changing the dates for those holidays celebrated in each country.

I had many great examples where the results of a farm were really the product of one person pushing for excellence. Best people will implement the science we taught them, nonetheless, their day to day work and observations will bring it to a higher level.

Why is my farrowing rate less than ideal? Use this tool to discover the potential causes. Navigate using the flowchart or use the buttons within the text to access the different parts of the tool.

If I see a farrowing rate less than 85%, the next question I should ask is, "Are there sows returning to estrus?"

Why do my sows come into heat soon after service?

Factors related to the semen dose, the boar, or the sow can cause regular returns to estrus.

There are several factors that can cause an abnormally long estrous cycle.

What are the causes of these returns?

This article lists the main infectious causes that can lead to irregular returns to estrus.

Negre Mallorquí pig is a native breed from Mallorca, characterized by its high rusticity and adaptation to the Mediterranean climatic conditions.

Moravka is a breed of combined production traits that was created as a result of unsystematic crossings of Šumadinka and Berkshire.

If the farrowing rate is less than ideal, with a normal percent of returns to estrus and abortions, we must consider the open sows.

If my farrowing rate is low, but the returns to estrus, abortions, and culled pregnant sows are all normal, I probably have dead sows...