O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência do número de leitões paridos e desmamados no primeiro parto, das reservas corporais ao parto e a perda das reservas corporais durante a lactação sobre a produção de leitões no segundo parto. Foram analisadas 1222 fêmeas que chegaram ao segundo parto sem interrupções como retorno ao estro, abortamento ou vazias ao parto. Foram medidos o peso corporal, espessura de toucinho (ET) e escore corporal visual (ECV), no máximo 24 horas pós-parto e no dia do desmame. Foram calculados a gordura e a proteína corporal ao parto e ao desmame para posteriormente serem obtidos os valores com relação às perdas destas reservas. O total de leitões nascidos no primeiro e no segundo partos e o número de leitões desmamados foram analisados de acordo com as características corporais e produtivas das fêmeas no primeiro parto e primeiro desmame. O tamanho de leitegada no primeiro e no segundo partos foram, respectivamente 12,4 leitões e o de 9,7 leitões nascidos totais. Na média as fêmeas apresentaram redução de 18,6 kg (9%) de peso corporal, 3,1mm de ET e 0,8 de ECV durante a lactação. O tamanho da leitegada no segundo parto não diferiu entre as classes das variáveis, peso, ET, ECV, gordura e proteína corporal no primeiro parto (P>0,05). As fêmeas com peso acima de 178kg, ET (≥16), ECV (≥3,0) e gordura corporal (≥21%) ao desmame tiveram maior leitegada no segundo parto e menor diferença no número de nascidos entre o primeiro e segundo parto (P<0,05). Fêmeas com maior percentual de proteína corporal ao desmame (≥15%) tiveram maior número de leitões nascidos na segunda leitegada. Houve maior diminuição no tamanho da segunda leitegada nas fêmeas com perdas de peso corporal acima de 10% (P<0,05). Perdas de proteína ou de gordura corporal acima de 10% e de 23%, respectivamente implicaram na maior diminuição no número de leitões nascidos no segundo parto (P<0,05). A perda de reservas corporais durante a lactação de primíparas influencia a redução do tamanho da leitegada no segundo parto. / The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of body reserves at farrowing and the corporal reserves losses during the first lactation on the second litter size. A number of 1222 females that reached the second parity without interruptions as return to estrus, abortion or failing to farrow were analyzed. Measurements of body weight, backfat thickness (BT) and corporal condition (CC) were taken within 24-hours after farrowing and on the weaning day. Sow body fat and protein mass, at first farrowing and first weaning, were calculated and the values of these reserves losses were estimated. The total piglets at first and second farrowing and the number of weaned piglets were analyzed according to the females corporal and productive characteristics at first farrowing and first weaning.Litter size at first and second farrowing were respectively 12.4 and 9.7 total born piglets. In the average, the females demonstrated a reduction of 18.6 kg (9%) in body weight, 3.1mm BT and 0.8 CC during lactation. Second litter size did not differ between the categories body weight, BT, CC, body fat and body protein at first farrowing (P>0.05). Females with more than 178kg, BT (≥16), ECV (≥3.0) and body fat (≥21%) at weaning had largest second litters and less differences in the number of piglets born between first and second farrowing (P<0.05). Sow body protein mass at weaning (≥15%) had a higher effect on the number of piglets produced in the second litter. Females with weight losses during lactation above 10% showed the greatest reduction in second litter size (P<0.05). Protein or fat mass losses above 10% and 23%, respectively resulted in a high reduction in the number of total born piglets in second litter (P<0.05).Looses of corporal reserves during the first lactation influences the reduction in the second litter size.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do tamanho da leitegada na qual as leitoas nasceram e do peso individual ao nascer sobre a mortalidade e descarte até o momento da seleção e sobre a ocorrência da puberdade. Foram avaliadas 1525 leitoas Landrace identificadas e pesadas até 18 h após o nascimento. As fêmeas foram também pesadas ao desmame (n=1379), na saída da creche (n=1198) e na saída da recria (n=940). Foram criadas três classes de tamanho da leitegada: Pequena (7 a 11 leitões); Média (12 a 13 leitões) e Grande (14 a 19 leitões). As leitoas avaliadas foram também analisadas em três classes, de acordo com o peso ao nascimento: Leves (530-1200 g); Médias (1205-1600 g) e Pesadas (1605-2535 g). O risco de morte na maternidade foi maior (P<0,05) nas leitoas Leves de leitegadas Médias e Grandes, em comparação às leitoas Pesadas, mas não nas leitegadas Pequenas. Foi observado aumento de Ganho de Peso Diário (GPD) e de peso (P<0,05), de acordo com o aumento de peso ao nascimento, nas diversas medidas efetuadas do nascimento até a seleção. O risco de morte na maternidade foi maior ou tendeu a ser maior para leitoas Leves de leitegadas Médias (P<0,05) e de leitegadas Grandes (P= 0,079), em comparação às leitoas Leves de leitegadas Pequenas. Não houve efeito (P>0,05) do peso ao nascimento ou do tamanho da leitegada nos percentuais de leitoas que morreram ou foram descartadas nas fases de creche e recria, no percentual de leitoas aprovadas na seleção e no percentual de leitoas em anestro até 30 dias após o estímulo com o macho. O risco de não chegar até a seleção foi maior (P<0,085) nas leitoas Leves do que nas Pesadas, em todos as classes de tamanho da leitegada. Leitoas Leves tiveram maior idade de estímulo com macho (IEM) e menor intervalo macho-puberdade (IMP) do que fêmeas Pesadas (P<0,05), mas não houve efeito do peso ao nascimento na idade à puberdade (P>0,05). Os resultados mostram que o peso ao nascimento é mais importante do que o tamanho da leitegada de origem da leitoa em termos de sobrevivência até o desmame, ganho de peso e retenção no plantel até a fase de seleção. / The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of litter size in which gilts were born and of their individual birth weight on mortality and cullingof these gilts until the moment of selection and on occurrence of puberty. The study evaluated 1525 landrace gilts, identified and weighted until 18 hours after birth. The gilts were also weighed on weaning (n=1379), nursery ending (n=1198) and rearing ending (n=940). Three classes of litter size were created: Small (7-11 piglets), Medium (12-13 piglets) and Large (14-19 piglets). Evaluated giltswere also divided into three other classes according to birth weight: Light (530-1200 g), Medium (1205-1600 g) and Heavy (1605-2535 g). The risk of death in maternity was higher (P<0,05) in Lightweight gilts from Medium and Large litters compared to Heavy ones, but not in gilts from Small litters. It was observed an increasing of ADG (Average Daily Gain) and weight (P<0,05), according to the increasing of birth weight, from birth to selection. The risk of death in maternity was also higher or tended to be higher in Lightweight gilts from Medium (P<0,05) and Large (P=0,079) litters compared to those from Small ones. There was no effect of birth weight or litter size on the percentage of dead or culling gilts at nursery and rearing, on the percentage of selected gilts and on the percentage of gilts in anestrous until 30 days after stimulation with a male. The risk of not reaching the selection was higher (P<0,085) in Lightweight gilts than in Heavy ones, in all litter size classes. Lightweight gilts had higher ASM (Age of Stimulus with a Male) and lower MPI (Male-Puberty Interval) compared to Heavy ones (P<0,05), but there was no effect of birth weight on puberty age (P<0,05). The results show that birth weight is more important than the litter size in which the gilt was born in terms of survival until weaning, weight gain and permanence in the herd until selection.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência do número de leitões paridos e desmamados no primeiro parto, das reservas corporais ao parto e a perda das reservas corporais durante a lactação sobre a produção de leitões no segundo parto. Foram analisadas 1222 fêmeas que chegaram ao segundo parto sem interrupções como retorno ao estro, abortamento ou vazias ao parto. Foram medidos o peso corporal, espessura de toucinho (ET) e escore corporal visual (ECV), no máximo 24 horas pós-parto e no dia do desmame. Foram calculados a gordura e a proteína corporal ao parto e ao desmame para posteriormente serem obtidos os valores com relação às perdas destas reservas. O total de leitões nascidos no primeiro e no segundo partos e o número de leitões desmamados foram analisados de acordo com as características corporais e produtivas das fêmeas no primeiro parto e primeiro desmame. O tamanho de leitegada no primeiro e no segundo partos foram, respectivamente 12,4 leitões e o de 9,7 leitões nascidos totais. Na média as fêmeas apresentaram redução de 18,6 kg (9%) de peso corporal, 3,1mm de ET e 0,8 de ECV durante a lactação. O tamanho da leitegada no segundo parto não diferiu entre as classes das variáveis, peso, ET, ECV, gordura e proteína corporal no primeiro parto (P>0,05). As fêmeas com peso acima de 178kg, ET (≥16), ECV (≥3,0) e gordura corporal (≥21%) ao desmame tiveram maior leitegada no segundo parto e menor diferença no número de nascidos entre o primeiro e segundo parto (P<0,05). Fêmeas com maior percentual de proteína corporal ao desmame (≥15%) tiveram maior número de leitões nascidos na segunda leitegada. Houve maior diminuição no tamanho da segunda leitegada nas fêmeas com perdas de peso corporal acima de 10% (P<0,05). Perdas de proteína ou de gordura corporal acima de 10% e de 23%, respectivamente implicaram na maior diminuição no número de leitões nascidos no segundo parto (P<0,05). A perda de reservas corporais durante a lactação de primíparas influencia a redução do tamanho da leitegada no segundo parto. / The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of body reserves at farrowing and the corporal reserves losses during the first lactation on the second litter size. A number of 1222 females that reached the second parity without interruptions as return to estrus, abortion or failing to farrow were analyzed. Measurements of body weight, backfat thickness (BT) and corporal condition (CC) were taken within 24-hours after farrowing and on the weaning day. Sow body fat and protein mass, at first farrowing and first weaning, were calculated and the values of these reserves losses were estimated. The total piglets at first and second farrowing and the number of weaned piglets were analyzed according to the females corporal and productive characteristics at first farrowing and first weaning.Litter size at first and second farrowing were respectively 12.4 and 9.7 total born piglets. In the average, the females demonstrated a reduction of 18.6 kg (9%) in body weight, 3.1mm BT and 0.8 CC during lactation. Second litter size did not differ between the categories body weight, BT, CC, body fat and body protein at first farrowing (P>0.05). Females with more than 178kg, BT (≥16), ECV (≥3.0) and body fat (≥21%) at weaning had largest second litters and less differences in the number of piglets born between first and second farrowing (P<0.05). Sow body protein mass at weaning (≥15%) had a higher effect on the number of piglets produced in the second litter. Females with weight losses during lactation above 10% showed the greatest reduction in second litter size (P<0.05). Protein or fat mass losses above 10% and 23%, respectively resulted in a high reduction in the number of total born piglets in second litter (P<0.05).Looses of corporal reserves during the first lactation influences the reduction in the second litter size.

Das Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war die Untersuchung der Effekte einer automatischen ad libitum Beifütterung von Milchaustauscher zusätzlich zur Sauenmilch in der Abferkelbucht auf den Gewichtszuwachs, die Verlustrate und die Notwendigkeit medikamentöser Behandlungen der Saugferkel. Zudem wurde der Einfluss der Ersatzmilch auf die Körperkondition der Sauen analysiert. Desweiteren wurde untersucht, ob ein Einfluss auf medikamentöse Behandlungen der Sauen, die Gesäugegesundheit und das Bakterienspektrum der Sauenmilch gegeben ist. Außerdem sollten Aussagen zum hygienischen Status des Milchtassensystems und der angeschlossenen Rohrleitungen und Behälter getroffen werden.

[EN] The global objective of the present thesis was to study the functional longevity defined as length of productive life (LPL) in five Spanish specialized lines of rabbit (A, V, H and LP). Chapter 3, aimed to check the genetic heterogeneity for longevity between the five lines estimating the additive variance and the corresponding effective heritabilities. As well as to test the genetic importance of time-dependent factors such as positive palpation order (OPP), physiological status (PS) and number of kits born alive (NBA) on the genetics of longevity. This point has been assessed using four different Cox proportional hazard models; the first one (Model 1) included all the previous factors in addition to the year-season effect, the inbreeding coefficient effect and finally the animal effect as random factor. The remaining three models were the same as Model 1 but excluding OPP (Model 2), or PS (Model 3), or NBA (Model 4). The complete data set comprised 15,670 does with records 35.6 % having censoring data, and the full pedigree file involved 19,405 animals. The heritability estimates for longevity in the five lines were low and ranged from 0.02±0.01 to 0.14±0.09, and consequently, it is not recommended to include this trait as selection criteria in rabbit breeding programs. Despite of the large variation of the heritability estimates, the corresponding HPD95% always overlapped and consequently the hypothesis of all lines having the same heritability cannot be discarded. Comparing the additive variance estimates of the four models, it was observed that by correcting for PS 51, 39, 38, 83 and 75% of the additive variance in lines A, V, H, LP and R, respectively, was removed. The risk of death or culling decreases as OPP advanced. Non-pregnant-non-lactating females are those under the higher risk. The does which had zero NBA had the highest risk, apart for this special figure (zero NBA) the risk decreased as NBA increased. Chapter 4 intended to estimate the genetic and environmental correlations between longevity and two prolificacy traits (number of kits born alive (NBA) and number of kits alive at weaning (NW)). Furthermore, to estimate the genetic and environmental correlations between longevity and the percentage of days that the doe spent in the different physiological statuses with respect to its entire productive life. The complete pedigree file comprised 19,405 animals. The datasets included records on 15,670 does which had 58,329 kindlings and 57,927 weanings. In general the genetic correlations between NBA and NW, and the hazard were low to very low, and the only line for which it can be said these genetic correlation to be different from zero was the LP line. Regarding the correlations between longevity and the percentage of days the doe spent in each physiological status, there were evidences of non-negligible genetic correlations between the two traits. Chapter 5 purposed to compare the five lines at their foundation and at fixed time periods during their selection programs. The first comparison was done at the origin of the lines, involving the complete data set, and using a genetic model (CM) including the additive values of the animals, so the effect of selection was considered. For the second comparison the same model as the first comparison was used, but excluding the additive effects from the model of analysis (IM), and involving only the data corresponding to each period, so the differences between the lines included the additive values of the animals. The lines V, H and LP showed at foundation a substantial superiority over line A. The line R had higher risk of death or culling with relevant differences when compared to V, H and LP lines. The maximum relative risks were observed between the lines LP and R (0.239), and between LP and A (0.317). For the comparisons at fixed times, the pattern of the differences between the A line and the others was similar to those observed at foundation. / [ES] El objetivo global de la presente tesis fue estudiar la longevidad funcional en cinco líneas españolas de conejos (A, V, H y LP), el carácter se definió como la longitud de la vida productiva. En el Capítulo 3, dirigido a comprobar la heterogeneidad genética de la longevidad entre las 5 líneas, se estimaron las varianzas aditivas y sus correspondientes heredabilidades efectivas. Y además se evaluó la importancia del orden de la palpación positiva (OPP), el estado fisiológico (PS) y el número de gazapos nacidos vivos (NBA) sobre el determinismo genético de la longevidad. Para ello se utilizaron 4 modelos de Cox de riesgos proporcionales; el primer modelo (Modelo 1) incluyó todos los factores anteriores, además del efecto del año-estación, el efecto de la consanguinidad y, finalmente, el valor aditivo de los animales como efecto aleatorio. Los otros tres modelos fueron igual que el Modelo 1 pero excluyendo OPP (Modelo 2), o PS (Modelo 3), o NBA (Modelo 4). Los datos de longevidad estaban referidos a 15,670 conejas y tuvieron una tasa de censura de 35.6%. La genealogía completa involucró a 19,405 animales. Las estimas de heredabilidad efectiva para la longevidad en las 5 líneas fueron bajas y variaron de 0.02±0.01 a 0.14±0.09. A pesar de la gran variación de las estimas puntuales de heredabilidad, los correspondientes intervalos HPD95% siempre se solaparon y por lo tanto la hipótesis de que todas las líneas tengan la misma heredabilidad no pudo descartase. Se observó que la exclusión de PS incrementó la varianza aditiva aproximadamente, en un 51, 39, 38, 83 y 75% en las líneas A, V, H, LP y R, respectivamente. El riesgo de muerte o eliminación disminuía a medida que avanzaba el OPP, observándose el riesgo más alto durante los primeros dos partos, partos en los que las conejas todavía están creciendo lo que sería un factor de riesgo importante. El nivel No-Gestante-No-Lactante de PS tuvo el mayor riesgo. Este nivel se interpreta como indicador de baja fertilidad y/o problemas de salud de la coneja. Las conejas que tenían cero NBA tuvieron el mayor riesgo de muerte o eliminación, aunque para el resto de niveles de NBA se apreció una disminución del riesgo a medida que aumenta la prolificidad. En el capítulo 4, se estimaron las correlaciones genéticas y ambientales entre la longevidad y dos caracteres de prolificidad [número de gazapos nacidos vivos (NBA) y el número de destetados (NW)]. El fichero de datos incluyó 58,329 partos y 57,927 destetes. También se estimaron las correlaciones entre longevidad y el porcentaje de días que la coneja pasó en los diferentes estados fisiológicos con respecto a la totalidad de su vida productiva. La única línea para la que se puede decir que la correlación genética entre NBA o NW y el riesgo fue significativamente diferente de cero fue la línea LP. Hubo evidencias de correlaciones genéticas no despreciables entre la longevidad y el porcentaje de días que la hembra pasó en cada estado fisiológico los dos caracteres. En el capítulo 5 se compararon las longevidades medias de las 5 líneas en su fundación y en períodos de tiempo determinados. La comparación de las líneas en el origen, utilizó todos los datos y un modelo genético (CM) que incluía los valores aditivos de los animales. Para la comparación en tiempos fijos se utilizó el mismo modelo, pero excluyendo los efectos aditivos del modelo de análisis (IM), utilizando sólo los datos correspondientes a cada período, por lo que las diferencias entre las líneas incluían los cambios debidos a la selección. Las líneas V, H y LP mostraron una superioridad sustancial sobre las líneas A y R. Los riesgos relativos máximos se observaron entre las líneas LP y R (0.239), y entre LP y A (0.317). Con respecto a las comparaciones en tiempos fijos, el patrón de las diferencias entre la línea de A y las otras líneas fue similar a los observados en la fundación. / [CA] L'objectiu global de la present tesi va ser estudiar la longevitat funcional en cinc línies espanyoles de conills (A, V, H i LP), el caràcter es va definir com la longitud de la vida productiva. Al Capítol 3, dirigit a comprovar l'heterogeneïtat genètica de la longevitat entre les 5 línies, es van estimar les variàncies additives i les seues corresponents heretabilitats efectives. A més a més, es va avaluar la importància de factors dependents del temps, com l'orde de la palpació positiva (OPP) , l'estat fisiològic (PS) i el nombre de llorigons nascuts vius (NBA) sobre el determinisme genètic de la longevitat. Per a això es van utilitzar 4 models de Cox de riscos proporcionals; el primer model (Model 1) va incloure tots els factors anteriorment assenyalats, a més de l'efecte de l'any-estació, l'efecte de la consanguinitat i, finalment, el valor additiu dels animals com a efecte aleatori. Els altres tres models van ser igual que el Model 1 però excloent l'OPP (Model 2) , o PS (Model 3) , o NBA (Model 4) . Les dades de longevitat estaven referides a 15,670 conilles i van tindre una taxa de censura de 35.6%. La genealogia completa va involucrar a 19,405 animals. Les estimes d'heretabilitat efectiva (Model 1) per a la longevitat en les 5 línies van ser baixes i van variar de 0.02±0.01 a 0.14±0.09. A pesar de la gran variació de les estimes puntuals d'heretabilitat, els corresponents intervals HPD95% sempre es van solapar i per tant la hipòtesi que totes les línies tinguen la mateixa heretabilitat no va poder descartar-se. Es va observar que l'exclusió de PS va incrementar la variància additiva, aproximadament, en un 51, 39, 38, 83 i 75% en les línies A, V, H, LP i R, respectivament. El risc de mort o eliminació disminuïa a mesura que avançava l'OPP, observant-se el risc més alt durant els primers dos parts, en què les conilles encara estan creixent el que seria un factor de risc important. El nivell No-Gestant-No-Lactant de PS va tindre el major risc en comparació amb els altres nivells. Les conilles que tenien zero NBA van tindre el major risc de mort o eliminació, encara que per a la resta de nivells de NBA es va apreciar una disminució del risc a mesura que augmentà la prolificitat. Al Capítol 4, es van estimar les correlacions genètiques i ambientals entre la longevitat i dos caràcters de prolificitat [nombre de llorigons nascuts vius (NBA) i el nombre de deslletats (NW)]. El fitxer de dades va incloure 58,329 parts i 57,927 deslletaments. L'única línia per a la que es pot dir que la correlació genètica entre NBA o NW i el risc va ser significativament diferent de zero va ser la línia LP. Evidències de correlacions genètiques no menyspreables entre longevitat i els percentatge de dies que la femella va passar en cada estat fisiològic. Al Capítol 5 es compararen les longevitats mitges de les 5 línies en la seua fundació i en períodes de temps determinats. Per a la comparació de les línies a l'origen, es van utilitzar totes les dades i un model genètic (CM) que incloïa els valors additius dels animals, per la qual cosa es va considerar l'efecte de la selecció a partir de la fundació. En la comparació en temps fixos se va utilitzar el mateix model que en l'anterior, però excloent els efectes additius del model d'anàlisi (IM), utilitzant només les dades corresponents a cada període, per la qual cosa les diferències entre les línies incloïen els canvis deguts a la selecció. Les línies V, H i LP van mostrar una superioritat substancial sobre les línies A i R. Els riscos relatius màxims es van observar entre les línies LP i R (0.239), i entre LP i A (0.317). Respecte a les comparacions en temps fixos, el patró de les diferències entre la línia de A i les altres línies va ser semblant als observats en la fundació. / El Nagar, AGF. (2015). Genetic analysis of longevity in specialized lines of rabbits [Tesis doctoral]. Universitat Politècnica de València. https://doi.org/10.4995/Thesis/10251/52390

Tesis por compendio / [EN] The aim of this thesis was to evaluate the productive performance of a rabbit line (OR-LS) selected by ovulation rate during first 6 generations (period 1), and later by ovulation rate (OR) and litter size (LS) during 11 generations using independent culling levels (Period 2). Genetic parameters, direct response for OR and LS and the correlated response for embryo (ES), foetal (FS) and prenatal survival (PS) were estimated. Also, the correlated response on growth rates (GR), weaning (WW) and marketing weight (MW) were estimated. The objective of chapter 3 was to estimate the genetic parameters of the productive traits and the response to selection by OR and LS of OR-LS line. For traits analysis, Bayesian methods were used. Heritability values of litter size traits were low, 0.10, 0.07, 0.07 and 0.07 for litter size, number of born alive (NBA), number of kits at weaning (NW) and marketing (NM), respectively. Heritability for OR was moderate (0.25), while it was low (0.13 and 0.14) for number of implanted embryos (IE) and number of live foetuses at 12 days of gestation (LF12), respectively. Low heritability values for survival traits were found, 0.09 for embryo survival (ES), 0.16 for foetal survival (FS) and 0.14 for prenatal survival (PS). In the second period, after 11 generations of selection by OR and LS, a genetic response of 0.17 kits per generation for LS was achieved. This response was higher than the obtained in period 1 (0.07 kits per generation), in which just selection by OR was performed. The opposite effect was found for OR; the highest response for OR appeared in the first period (0.24 ova per generation) versus the second period (0.17 ova per generation). This reduction in OR response can be due to the decrease in selection differential during the second period of selection. Since high genetic correlations were obtained for LS and other litter size traits, a positive correlated response was observed for NBA, NW and NM (0.12, 0.12 and 0.11 kits per generation, respectively) in the second period. In the first period, no correlated response on ES was observed and a decrease in FS (-0.04) was found. Nevertheless, in the second period a correlated response on PS appeared due to an improvement in both ES (0.04) and FS (0.03). Summarizing, the improvement in litter size in the second period is due to an increase in ovulation rate as well as an increase in prenatal survival. The objective of chapter 4 was to study the correlated response on growth traits in the OR-LS line in both periods of selection, the selection by OR during six generations and the selection by independent levels by OR and LS during 11 generations. The heritability estimates were low for weaning weight (WW), marketing weight (MW) and growth rate (GR), 0.09, 0.13 and 0.14, respectively. The estimated genetic correlations of WW, GR and MW with LS were around zero and with OR were positive and from low (0.19) to moderate (0.38). The positive moderate genetic correlation estimated between OR and MW could explain the correlated response found in MW. Correlated response on WW could be explained by positive and high genetic correlation between MW and WW. The aim of chapter 5 was to investigate magnitude and timing of embryo and early foetal survival in females with high OR using hormonal treatment as a model for selection by OR. Two groups of females (treated and untreated) were used. Treated females were injected with 50 IU eCG 48 hours before mating. Females were slaughtered at day 18 of gestation. OR, IE, LF12 and LF18 were recorded. Besides, ES (IE/OR), FSLF18 (LF18/IE), FSLF18/LF12 (LF18/LF12) and PSLF18 (LF18/OR) were estimated. Treated females had a higher OR than untreated females. According to the previous results for OR and LF18, treated females showed a lower survival rate from ovulation to 18 d of gestation. Treated females also had lower embryo and foetal survival. Main difference in foetal survival appeared from day 12 to 18 of gestation. / [ES] El objetivo de esta tesis fue evaluar el tamaño de camada de una línea de conejo seleccionada por tasa de ovulación durante las primeras seis generaciones (periodo 1) y después por tasa de ovulación (OR) y tamaño de camada (LS) durante 11 generaciones mediante el método de niveles independientes (periodo 2). Se estimaron los parámetros genéticos, así como la respuesta en OR y LS y la respuesta correlacionada en los caracteres reproductivos (capítulo 3). Además, se evaluó la respuesta correlacionada en los caracteres de crecimiento (capítulo 4); peso al destete (WW), peso al sacrificio (MW) y ganancia de peso entre el destete y el sacrificio (GR). Para el análisis de los caracteres se utilizaron métodos bayesianos. El objetivo del capítulo 3 fue estimar los parámetros genéticos de los caracteres reproductivos y la respuesta a la selección. Los valores de heredabilidad de los caracteres del tamaño de camada fueron bajos (alrededor de 0.10). La heredabilidad estimada para OR fue moderada (0.25), mientras que fue baja para el número de embriones implantados (IE) y el número de fetos vivos a los 12 días de gestación (LF12). Se obtuvieron valores bajos de heredabilidad; 0.09 para la supervivencia embrionaria (ES), 0.16 para la supervivencia fetal (FS) y 0.14 para la supervivencia prenatal (PS). En el periodo 2, se obtuvo una respuesta genética de 0.17 gazapos por generación para LS. Esta respuesta fue mayor que la obtenida en el periodo 1. En el caso de la tasa de ovulación, la mayor respuesta en OR se obtuvo en el periodo 1 (0.24 óvulos por generación) versus (0.17 óvulos por generación) en el periodo 2. Esta reducción en la respuesta de OR se puede atribuir a la disminución del diferencial de selección durante el período 2 de selección. De acuerdo con la alta correlación genética entre LS y otros caracteres del tamaño de camada, también se observó una respuesta correlacionada positiva en el número de nacidos vivos (NBA), destetados (NW) y comercializados (NM); 0.12, 0.12 y 0.11 gazapos por generación, respectivamente, en el segundo periodo. En el primer periodo no se observa respuesta correlacionada en la SE y se produce una disminución de la SF (-0.04). Sin embargo, en el segundo periodo se produce una respuesta correlacionada positiva en la SP que se debe a una mejora de la SE (0.04) y SF (0.03). En resumen, la mejora del tamaño de camada en el segundo periodo se debe tanto a un aumento de la tasa de ovulación como a un aumento de la supervivencia prenatal. El objetivo del capítulo 4 fue estudiar la respuesta correlacionada en los caracteres de crecimiento en esta línea. Las estimas de heredabilidad fueron bajas para los caracteres WW (0.09), MW (0.13) y GR (0.14). Las correlaciones genéticas estimadas de LS con WW, MW y GR fueron cercanas a cero; con la tasa de ovulación, las correlaciones fueron positivas y variaban de bajas a moderadas (de 0.19 a 0.38). La correlación genética moderada entre OR y MW podría explicar la respuesta correlacionada observada en MW. La alta correlación entre MW y WW podría explicar la respuesta correlacionada obtenida para WW. Finalmente, el objetivo de capítulo 5 fue estudiar en hembras con alta tasa de ovulación en qué momento se producen las mayores pérdidas fetales y cómo se ve afectado el desarrollo fetal. Para ello, de un total de 51 hembras, 24 hembras fueron pinchadas con 50 UI de eCG 48 horas antes de la cubrición para aumentar la tasa de ovulación. Las hembras fueron sacrificadas a los 18 días de gestación. Se registró OR, IE y el número de fetos vivos a los 12 y 18 días de gestación (LF18). Las hembras tratadas tuvieron una tasa de ovulación mayor que las no tratadas. De acuerdo con los resultados obtenidos para OR y LF18, las hembras tratadas mostraron una supervivencia más baja desde la ovulación hasta los 18 días de gestación y tuvieron una menor supervivencia embrionaria y fetal. Las principales diferencias en l / [CA] L'objectiu d'esta tesi va ser avaluar la millora de la grandària de ventrada d'una línia de conill seleccionada per tasa d'ovulació durant les primeres sis generacions (període 1) i després per tasa d'ovulació (OR) i la grandària de ventrada (LS) durant 11 generacions per mitjà del mètode de nivells independents (període 2). Es van estimar els paràmetres genètics, així com la resposta en OR i LS i la resposta correlacionada en caràcters reproductius (capítol 3). A més, es va estudiar la resposta correlacionada en els caràcters de creixement (capítol 4); pes al deslletament (WW), pes al sacrifici (MW) i guany de pes entre el deslletament y el sacrifici (GR). Per a l'anàlisi dels caràcters es van utilitzar mètodes bayesians. L'objectiu del capítol 3 va ser estimar els paràmetres genètics dels caràcters reproductius i la resposta a la selecció. Els valors d'heretabilitat dels caràcters de la grandària de ventrada van ser baixos (al voltant de 0.10). L'heretabilitat estimada per a OR va ser moderada (0.25), mentres que va ser baixa per al nombre d'embrions implantats (IE) i el nombre de fetus vius als 12 dies de gestació (LF12). Es van obtindre valors baixos d'heretabilitat; 0.09 per a ES, 0.16 per a FS i 0.14 per a PS. En el període 2, es va obtindre una resposta genètica de 0.17 llorigons per generació per a LS. Esta resposta va ser major que l'obtinguda en el període 1. En el cas de la tasa d'ovulació, la major resposta per a OR va ser en el primer període (0.24 òvuls per generació) versus (0.17 òvuls per generació) en el període 2. Esta reducció en la resposta d'OR es pot atribuir a la disminució del diferencial de selecció durant el període 2 de selecció. Donada l'alta correlació genètica entre LS i altres caràcters de la grandària de ventrada, també es va observar una resposta correlacionada positiva en el nombre de nascuts vius (NBA), deslletats (NW) i comercialitzats (NM); 0.12, 0.12 i 0.11 llorigons per generació, respectivament, en el segon període. En el primer període no s'observa resposta correlacionada en la SE i es produeix una disminució de la SF (-0.04). No obstant això, en el segon període es produeix una resposta correlacionada en la SP que es deu a una millora de la SE (0.04) i SF (0.03). En resum, la millora de la grandària de ventrada en el segon període es deu tant a un augment de la tasa d'ovulació com a un augment de la supervivència prenatal. L'objectiu del capítol 4 va ser estudiar la resposta correlacionada en els caràcters de creixement en aquesta línia. Les estimes d'heretabilitat van ser baixes per als caràcters WW (0.09), MW (0.13) i GR (0.14). Les correlacions genètiques estimades de LS amb WW, MW i GR van ser pròximes a zero; amb la tasa d'ovulació, les correlacions van ser positives i variaven de baixes a moderades (de 0.19 a 0.38). La correlació genètica moderada entre OR i MW podria explicar la resposta correlacionada trobada per a MW. D'altra banda, l'alta correlació entre MW i WW podria explicar la resposta correlacionada obtinguda per a WW. Finalment. l'objectiu del capítol 5 va ser estudiar en femelles amb alta tasa d'ovulació en quin moment es van produir les majors pèrdues fetals i com es veu afectat el desenvolupament fetal. Per a això, d'un total de 51 femelles, 24 femelles van ser punxades amb 50 UI d'eCG 48 hores abans del cobriment per a augmentar la tasa d'ovulació. Les femelles van ser sacrificades al 18 dies de gestació. Es va registrar OR, IE i el nombre de fetus vius al 12 i 18 dies de gestació (LF18). Les femelles tractades van tindre una tasa d'ovulació major que les no tractades. D¿acord als resultats obtinguts per OR i LF18, les femelles tractades van mostrar una supervivència més baixa des de l'ovulació fins als 18 dies de gestació i van tindre una menor supervivència embrionària i fetal. Les principals diferències en la supervivència fetal van aparèixer entre els dies 12 i 18 de gestaci / Yehia Badawy Elmoghazy, A. (2016). SELECTION FOR OVULATION RATE AND LITTER SIZE IN RABBITS [Tesis doctoral]. Universitat Politècnica de València. https://doi.org/10.4995/Thesis/10251/73265 / Compendio

Tesis por compendio / The thesis is composed for four articles, where is studied either as relationships between body condition and energetic mobilization in rabbits and as the effect of selection for litter size variability in body condition and energetic mobilization, such as welfare biomarkers, and in litter size and its components after seven generation of selection. The first article examines the relationships between measures of body condition and energetic mobilization on primiparous rabbit at mating, delivery and 10 d after delivery, using principal component analysis. Body condition was measured as body weight and perirenal fat thickness. Energetic mobilization was measured as non-esterified fatty acid concentration in blood, before (NEFAb) and after lipolysis stimulation by isoproterenol (NEFAr). All body weights and perirenal fat thickness were located on the first principal component, exhibiting high correlations between them both at the same or different times (from 0.51 to 0.83). All NEFA measurements were located on the second component, showing low correlations with body condition measurements. Both NEFAs showed high positive correlations when measured at the same time (0.65 at mating, 0.72 at delivery and 0.69 at 10 d after delivery), but low correlations when measured at different times (from 0.09 to 0.20). The second article analyses the correlated response in body condition and fat reserves mobilization. The perirenal fat thickness and the increase in NEFAs from basal until adrenergic stimulation by isoproterenol were measured at second mating, at delivery and at 10 d after delivery. Perirenal fat thickness was similar in both lines at mating. However, the high line showed lower fat thickness than the low line at delivery (-0.16 mm, P=0.86), and this difference remained at 10 d after delivery (-0.17 mm, P=0.86). Moreover, this line exhibited 30% more concentration in NEFAs at delivery than the low one (P=0.96). The third and fourth articles study the correlated responses to selection in litter size and its components. A laparoscopy was performed 12 d of the second gestation, in order to estimate ovulation rate and number of implanted embryos. The litter size was recorded at the second parity. In the last gestation, the embryonic development was analysed at 28, 48 and 72 hours of gestation. The ovulation rate was similar in both lines. The line selected to reduce variability in litter size showed a higher number of implanted embryos (1.23, P=1.00) than the high line. Also, this line showed a more advanced development of the embryos from 48 hours of gestation, exhibiting a lower percentage of early morulae both at 48 hours (53.32% vs 79.90%, P=0.93) and at 72 hours (3.88% Vs. 21.04%, P=0.93). More advanced embryo development is related to higher embryo survival (0.85 vs 0.78, P=1.00). A higher uterine overcrowding of embryos in the low line did not penalise fetal survival, and as a result, this line continued showing a greater number of kits born at birth (0.98, P=0.96). In conclusion, body weight and perirenal fat thickness are good predictors of body reserves and both measurements could be used to estimate energy changes in the mid-long term, while NEFA measurements should be used in the short term. A decrease in litter size variability has a favourable effect on body condition, fat reserve mobilization, embryonic development and survival, and litter size. / La tesis se compone de cuatro artículos, donde se estudia tanto la relación entre la condición corporal y la movilización de energía en la coneja como el efecto de la selección divergente por variabilidad del tamaño de camada en la condición corporal y movilización de reservas energéticas, como biomarcadores del bienestar del animal, y en el tamaño de camada y sus componentes después de siete generaciones de selección. El primer artículo examina las relaciones entre las medidas de la condición corporal y la movilización de energía en conejas primíparas a la monta, al parto y a los 10 días tras el parto, a través de un análisis de componentes principales. La condición corporal se midió como el peso corporal y el espesor de grasa perirenal. La movilización de energía se midió como la concentración de ácidos grasos no esterificados en sangre, antes (NEFAb) y después de la estimulación lipolítica con isoproterenol (NEFAr). Todos los pesos y espesores de grasa perirenal se situaron sobre la primera componente principal, exhibiendo altas correlaciones entre ellos independientemente del estado fisiológico donde se midieron (de 0.51 a 0.83). Todas las medidas de NEFAs se localizaron sobre la segunda componente principal, mostrando una baja correlación con las medidas de la condición corporal. Los NEFAb y NEFAr mostraron elevadas correlaciones entre ellos cuando se midieron en el mismo momento (0.65 a la monta, 0.72 al parto y 0.69 a los 10 días tras el parto), pero bajas correlaciones cuando se midieron en diferentes momentos (de 0.09 a 0.20). El segundo artículo analiza la respuesta correlacionada sobre la condición corporal y la movilización de reservas grasas. El espesor de la grasa perirenal y el incremento de los niveles basales de NEFAs después de su estimulación adrenérgica con isoproterenol fueron medidos a la segunda monta, al parto y a los 10 días tras el parto. El espesor de la grasa perirenal fue similar en ambas líneas a la monta. Sin embargo la línea de alta mostró un menor espesor de grasa que la línea de baja al parto (-0.16 mm, P=0.86), y esta diferencia se mantuvo a los 10 días después del parto (-0.17 mm, P=0.86). Por otro lado, esta línea exhibió un 30% menos de NEFAs al parto que la línea de baja (P=0.96). El tercer y cuarto artículo estudian la respuesta correlacionada sobre el tamaño de camada y sus componentes. Se realizó una laparoscopía a los 12 días de la segunda gestación para estimar la tasa de ovulación y el número de embriones implantados. Se contabilizó el tamaño de camada al segundo parto. En la última gestación se analizó el desarrollo embrionario a 28, 48 y 72 horas de gestación. La tasa de ovulación fue similar en ambas líneas. La línea seleccionada para reducir la variabilidad en tamaño de camada mostró un mayor número de embriones implantados (1.23, P=1.00) que la línea de alta. También, esta línea mostró un desarrollo de los embriones más avanzado a partir de las 48 horas de gestación, exhibiendo un menor porcentaje de mórulas tempranas tanto a 48 horas (53.32% vs 79.90%, P=0.93) como a 72 horas (3.88% vs 21.04%, P=0.93). Un desarrollo más avanzado del embrión está relacionado con una mayor supervivencia de éste (0.85 vs 0.78, P=1.00). Por otro lado, un mayor atestamiento de embriones en el útero de la línea de baja variabilidad no penalizó la supervivencia fetal, y como resultado, esta línea continuó mostrando un mayor número gazapos al parto (0.98, P=0.96). En conclusión, el peso y el espesor de grasa perirenal son buenos predictores de las reservas corporales, ambas medidas podrían usarse para estimar los cambios energéticos a medio plazo, mientras que las medidas de NEFAs se deberían usar a corto plazo. La disminución de la variabilidad del tamaño de camada tiene un efecto favorable sobre la condición corporal, la movilización de reservas grasas, el desarrollo y supervivencia embrionaria y el tam / La tesi es compon de quatre articles, on s'estudia tant la relació entre la condició corporal i la mobilització d'energia en la conilla com l'efecte de la selecció divergent per variabilitat de la grandària de ventrada en la condició corporal i mobilització de reserves energètiques, com biomarcadores del benestar de l'animal, i en la grandària de ventrada i els seus components després de set generacions de selecció. El primer article examina les relacions entre les mesures de la condició corporal i la mobilització d'energia en conilles primípares a la muntada, al part i als 10 dies després del part, a través d'una anàlisi de components principals. La condició corporal es va mesurar com el pes corporal i la grossària de greix perirenal. La mobilització d'energia es va mesurar com la concentració d'àcids grassos no esterificats en sang, abans (NEFAb) i després de l'estimulació lipolítica amb isoproterenol (NEFAr) . Tots els pesos i grossàries de greix perirenal es van situar sobre la primera component principal, exhibint altes correlacions entre ells independentment de l'estat fisiològic on es van mesurar (de 0.51 a 0.83) . Totes les mesures de NEFAs es van localitzar sobre la segona component principal, mostrant una baixa correlació amb les mesures de la condició corporal. Els NEFAb i NEFAr van mostrar elevades correlacions entre ells quan es van mesurar en el mateix moment (0.65 a la muntada, 0.72 al part i 0.69 als 10 dies després del part) , però baixes correlacions quan es van mesurar en diferents moments (de 0.09 a 0.20). El segon article analitza la resposta correlacionada sobre la condició corporal i la mobilització de reserves greixos. La grossària del greix perirenal i l'increment dels nivells basals de NEFAs després de la seua estimulació adrenérgica amb isoproterenol van ser mesurats a la segona muntada, al part i als 10 dies després del part. La grossària del greix perirenal va ser semblant en ambdós línies a la muntada. No obstant això la línia d'alta va mostrar una menor grossària de greix que la línia de baixa al part (-0.16 mm, P=0.86) , i esta diferència es va mantindre als 10 dies després del part (-0.17 mm, P=0.86) . D'altra banda, esta línia va exhibir un 30% menys de NEFAs al part que la línia de baixa (P=0.96). El tercer i quart article estudien la resposta correlacionada sobre la grandària de ventrada i els seus components. Es va realitzar una laparoscopía als 12 dies de la segona gestació per a estimar la taxa d'ovulació i el nombre d'embrions implantats. Es va comptabilitzar la grandària de ventrada al segon part. En l'última gestació es va analitzar el desenrotllament embrionari a 28, 48 i 72 hores de gestació. La taxa d'ovulació va ser semblant en ambdós línies. La línia seleccionada per a reduir la variabilitat en grandària de ventrada va mostrar un nombre més gran d'embrions implantats (1.23, P=1.00) que la línia d'alta. També, esta línia va mostrar un desenrotllament dels embrions més avançat a partir de les 48 hores de gestació, exhibint un menor percentatge de mórulas primerenques tant a 48 hores (53.32% vs 79.90%, P=0.93) com a 72 hores (3.88% vs 21.04%, P=0.93). Un desenrotllament més avançat de l'embrió està relacionat amb una major supervivència d'este (0.85 vs 0.78, P=1.00). D'altra banda, un major atapeïment d'embrions en l'úter de la línia de baixa variabilitat no va penalitzar la supervivència fetal, i com resultat, esta línia va continuar mostrant un nombre més gran errors al part (0.98, P=0.96). En conclusió, el pes i la grossària de greix perirenal són bons predictors de les reserves corporals, ambdós mesures podrien usar-se per a estimar els canvis energètics a mitjà termini, mentres que les mesures de NEFAs s'haurien d'usar a curt termini. La disminució de la variabilitat de la grandària de ventrada té un efecte favorable sobre la condició corporal, la mobilització de reserves greixos, el dese / Calle Ayma, EW. (2017). CORRELATED RESPONSE TO SELECTION FOR LITTER SIZE RESIDUAL VARIANCE IN RABBITS [Tesis doctoral]. Universitat Politècnica de València. https://doi.org/10.4995/Thesis/10251/81021 / Compendio

Female reproductive performance is a critical component of sustainable pig production systems. There is abundant evidence of genetic variation in these traits among pig breeds. The aims of this study were to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting reproductive traits and to identify and characterise positional candidate gene(s) underlying the QTL. A Large White - Meishan F2 population was scanned for QTL with effects on reproductive traits. This analysis revealed 13 putative QTLs on seven different chromosomes with effects on five different traits: ovulation rate (OR), teat number (TN), prenatal survival (PS), total born alive (TBA) and litter size (LS). QTL for PS and LS on chromosome 8 were fine mapped and Secreted Phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) confirmed as a candidate gene. A genome-wide association study was performed on a diverse population of different breeds and crosses lines, for reproductive traits including LS, TBA, number of stillborn piglets, and number of mummified piglets. Fourteen SNPs were found significantly associated with reproductive traits. The functional study of SPP1 examined the hypothesis that differences in foetal growth may be associated with the effectiveness of conceptus attachment, as measured by SPP1 expression. Patterns of SPP1 mRNA and protein expression in placental and uterine tissues supplying the smallest and a normal-sized foetus from the same uterus were examined in Large White-Landrace (LW-LR), Large White (LW) and Meishan (MS) females 40 and 45 of pregnancy. The smallest LW-LR foetuses tended to have a higher level of SPP1 mRNA in endometrium tissue compared to the normal-sized foetuses. However, placenta expression was higher in the normal-sized foetuses compared to the smallest ones. SPP1 protein levels in normal sized foetuses were significantly higher than in the smallest litter mates for all the tissues. Significantly higher levels of SPP1 mRNA and protein were found in MS compared to LW. In both breeds, significant differences between sizes were found in some tissues, with similar expression patterns in respect to size, for both mRNA and protein in endometrial tissues when compared to contemporary LW. In placenta, the direction of the expression differed between breeds, with a higher expression of mRNA and protein in the normal-sized MS foetuses and in the smallest sized LW foetuses. The comparison of SPP1 expression between different foetal sizes and different breeds revealed associations between breed, foetal size, and SPP1 protein, factors implicated in PS and LS. These results together with the genetic evidence indicate that the potential role of SPP1 in placental and foetal development merits further investigation.

The common marmoset is the most frequently used New World primate in laboratory research and testing. In the UK, their use is strictly controlled by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act, which is underpinned by the principles of humane science: Replacement, Reduction and Refinement. Despite their use, there are a number of problems associated with the breeding of marmosets, including low dam longevity and increasing litter sizes. Large litters have led to high infant mortality and the need for human intervention to improve infant survival, which involves removal from the family for substantial periods of time. Previous research in a range of primate species shows that early life family separation is associated with numerous adverse behavioural and physiological effects. This project therefore sought to systematically investigate the effects of breeding and infant rearing practices, integrating a number of measures to assess the welfare of laboratory- housed marmosets. Potential predictors of dam longevity and litter size were first identified in three captive UK colonies, over four decades. Dam longevity was found to be approximately 6 years, with heavier dams living longer, but overall there was no consistent improvement in longevity over the decades. As longevity varied widely between colonies and over time, environment may be one of the most important factors. Approximately half of all births at each colony were litters larger than two, and these larger litters had greater infant mortality. Only dam weight at conception was useful in predicting litter size, with heavier dams producing larger litters. The consequences of large litters and early separation from the family for supplementary feeding were then investigated. Although twins had lower body weight than 2stays (two infants remaining with the family after death of the other littermate/s) and supplementary fed triplets, they also had the fewest health problems. There was also some evidence that animals from larger litters were more at risk of suffering from extreme low weight. Some minor differences were found in behavioural development between litter sizes. Singleton infants received more rejective rearing, while 2stays received more protective rearing, perhaps following the loss of an infant. While twin infants gained independence earlier than singletons or 2stays, they did not appear to cope better with stress in adulthood, displaying more significant increases in stress-related behaviour following the routine stressor of capture and weighing, compared to 2stays and supplementary fed triplets. While overall cortisol unexpectedly decreased from baseline to post capture, there were only significant fluctuations in 2stay marmosets. Instead, there were some increases in positive behaviour in supplementary fed triplets following the stressor, suggesting enhanced coping ability. However, in another group of supplementary fed triplets, there were subtle increases in depressive-like symptoms, measured using cognitive bias and preference tests, suggesting a reduced expectation of and interest in rewards. There were however no differences between family-reared and supplementary fed marmosets in time to learn a visual discrimination task, or in responses to temperament tests. Therefore, while it was hypothesised that early family separation would have adverse developmental consequences, there were actually very little differences between marmosets of different litter sizes and rearing backgrounds, across the range of measures. Results suggest that the current supplementary feeding programme, along with a regular human socialisation programme, minimises any potential negative effects. However, we should always be finding ways to improve the lives of animals in our care. Possible Refinements include reducing dam weight to increase twin births and improve infant survival, and training to allow supplementary feeding on the carrier’s back, to prevent infant separation and reduce disruption to the family. These Refinements could reduce fear and allow monkeys to become more resilient to the laboratory environment.

The aim was selected in a commercial breeding (AGRO Vodňany a.s.) to analyze and evaluate herd reproductive performance of sows used for the production of piglets (final hybrids). The analysis was focused on the age structure of the sow, when the first and second litter was 28.8% on the 3rd to 5th litter 23.5% and the sixth and other litters of sows 47.7%.The annual renewal of the herd was culled 22.9% and 25.5% included sows for breeding.This breeding is used natural reproduction, where for the purposes of reproduction bred four boars lines of 48 (White paternity x Pietrain).The average gestation length breeding was 115.2 of days. In 2016, it was born an average of 13.8 piglet per litter, of which 11.5 piglet of live and been preserved was 10.2 piglet per litter.The length of the farrowing interval was 171,1 days and the onset of estrus after weaning piglets was an average of 4.9 days.Weaning is in monitored husbandry carried out between 28 to 31 day age of piglets.Part of this work was to evaluate zoohygiene also at stud and compared with the results of performance farms in the Czech Republic and recommendations for improving the results of husbandry evaluated. When comparing the results of selected indicators identified in Agro Vodňany a.s. with selected data published by the Czech Statistical Office for the South Bohemian Region and the Czech Republic in 2016, it was found that the number of piglets born per sow in the Czech Republic was 30.1 piglets. Piglets was born25.1 in South Bohemia and 24.3piglets was born per sow in Vodňany. The death of piglets from the number of births in the Czech Republic was 10.6% in the South Region accounted for 15.6% and in Vodňany it was 11.9%.The number of surviving piglets per sow in the Czech Republic was 26.9 piglets in South Bohemia have been preserved 21.3 piglet per sow and Vodnany during the reporting period have been preserved 21.4 piglets per sow.