The effect of single-gender and mixed rearing on growth performance, backfat thickness and meat quality in crossbred growing-finishing pigs

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of single-gender and mixed rearing on growth performance, backfat thickness and meat quality in crossbred [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc] growing-finishing pigs. A total of 120 pigs were used in this 15-wk growth trial. Pigs were allotted to 3 treatments based on their initial BW (10 replications; 4 pigs per pen). The treatments included: T₁: mixed rearing (2 barrows and 2 gilts per pen); T₂: barrows; T₃: gilts. Non significant variations in growth and meat quality traits were recorded amongst groups under study (P>0.05). However, barrows had significantly higher backfat thickness than gilts throughout the entire trial (P<0.05).