Genetic Relationship of Weaning Weight with Post-Weaning Growth Rate in Swine

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Abstract
The objectives of this investigation were to determine the genetic parameters associated with weaning weight and post-weaning growth rate in swine, and to evaluate these traits with a view to simplifying selection for growth. Gilt litters of the Minnesota No. 2 and No. 3 breeds provided the data. Analyses were done on an intra sex-year-location breed basis, by 3 methods. They were analyses of variance and covariance, regression of progeny on sire, and intra-sire regression of offspring on dam. Pooled estimates were: heritability of weaning weight, 0.18; heritability of post-weaning daily gain, 0.31; genetic correlation between the traits, 0.69; and phenotypic correlation between the traits, 0.37. Selection based solely on post-weaning growth rate was found to account for 91% of the possible genetic improvement in weaning weight.