Effect of breed of sire on growth of gilts and on subsequent reproductive performance.

This study was conducted to determine the effect of breed of sire on performance of crossbred gilts during the growing-finishing period and on subsequent reproductive performance for three consecutive parties. Average daily gain of gilts sired by Yorkshire boars was greater (P less than .05) than average daily gain of gilts sired by Landrace boars. Average daily gain of gilts sired by Duroc boars was between that of Yorkshire and Landrace sired gilts, but was not significantly different from either. Birthweight of Duroc and Landrace-sired pigs was heavier (P less than .05) than that of Yorkshire-sired pigs. Landrace-sired pigs were heavier at weaning (35 days of age) than were Duroc and Yorkshire-sired pigs. Sows sired by Yorkshire boars were heavier (P less than .05) when pigs were weaned, at 110 days of gestation and one day post-farrowing than sows sired by Duroc boars. Weight of Landrace-sired sows was intermediate between Yorkshire and Duroc-sired sows and was not significantly different from either. Survival traits were not affected by breed of sire.