Deciphering Seasonal Patterns in Animal Feeding: A Mechanistic Approach to Analyzing the Restricted Growth of Iberian Pigs

Sánchez-Esquiliche, Fernando ; Ferreira, Chelo (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Nieto, Rosa ; Ramírez, Luisa ; Matos, Gema ; Muniesa, Ana (Universidad de Zaragoza)

Resumen: The growth of animals is influenced by various factors including genetics, nutrition, and environmental conditions. This study focuses on understanding the traditional growth phases of Iberian pigs raised in semi-free-range environments prior to the finishing period within the Mediterranean forest. Using a comprehensive dataset of 5329 pigs, we evaluated the abilities of several mathematical models to predict growth patterns during the early growing and pre-finishing phases. The Gompertz model demonstrated the best fit for the age–weight relationship, indicating its effectiveness in characterizing growth dynamics in these animals. A novel compartmental mathematical model was developed, which integrates age-based estimations for certain body components (protein, water, and ash) with linear body weight predictions for fat. Our findings indicate that this mechanistic model serves as an effective tool for understanding and optimizing management strategies and enhancing growth predictions in traditional pig breeds.

Idioma: Inglés

DOI: 10.3390/ani14233431

Año: 2024

Publicado en: Animals 14, 23 (2024), 3431 [14 pp.]
ISSN: 2076-2615

Factor impacto JCR: 2.7 (2024)

Categ. JCR: VETERINARY SCIENCES rank: 21 / 170 = 0.124 (2024) - Q1 - T1
Categ. JCR: AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE rank: 15 / 86 = 0.174 (2024) - Q1 - T1

Factor impacto SCIMAGO: 0.733 - Veterinary (miscellaneous) (Q1) - Animal Science and Zoology (Q1)

Financiación: info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/ES/MCIU-CDTI/IDI-202205289

Tipo y forma: Article (Published version)

Área (Departamento): Área Matemática Aplicada (Dpto. Matemática Aplicada)
Área (Departamento): Área Sanidad Animal (Dpto. Patología Animal)