An evaluation of detection function models used for estimating herbivore densities in tropical forests

Abstract :

Feeding trials were conducted to evaluate the growth performance of Large White Yorkshire Pigs (LWY Pigs) in hot-humid climatic conditions of Kerala, South India, under different feeding regimes. There was no significant (P> 0.05) difference in monthly body weight, body measurement, average daily weight gain and average daily feed intake between pigs fed with farm concentrate and swill feed. However, pigs fed with farm concentrate had significantly (P<0.01) higher dressing percentage, lesser back fat thickness and gut weight, while pigs fed with swill feed had significantly (P<0.01) lesser loin eye area and meat-bone ratio than the other treatment groups. Pigs fed with swill feed with 1% organic minerals attained significantly (P<0.01) higher slaughter weight, hot carcass weight and carcass length. It was concluded that swill feed was found to be equally effective compared to concentrate feed in promoting growth of the fattener pig under field conditions Carcass characteristics and growth promotion can be improved by supplementation of minerals in the swill feed of fattener pigs.