The effect of rank order on feed intake and growth of fattening pigs.
On the basis of 120 fattening pigs, classified in 6 groups of 20 animals each, the rank order was determined and its influence on the feed intake behaviour as well as on the fattening progress was studied. The results show that with respect to the total length of stay at the trough and to the time per visit to the feeding station the dominant barrows stayed significantly longer at the feeding place than their subordinate pen mates. Additionally, they showed a higher weight at the end of the fattening period and a higher weight gain per day of fattening. As to the frequency of the visits to the feeding station there was no significant difference between high-ranking and low-ranking animals during the period of observation.
Schönfelder
A
A
aschoenf@gmx.de
D000818:Animals; D000831:Animals, Newborn / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000523:psychology; D004291:Dominance-Subordination; D002149:Energy Intake / Q000502:physiology*; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D008297:Male; D013552:Swine / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000523:psychology; D015430:Weight Gain