In trials with 64 pigs growing from 37 to 60 kg or from 65 to 88 kg growth rate and food conversion were not affected by either a 10°C or a 20°C range in diurnal air temperature cycle compared with a constant temperature equal to the mean of the cycle when the mean temperatures were optimal. However, with a constant temperature and cycle mean at 6°C above optimum, performance declined with a 20°C range cycle.
The effects of exercise on food intake, growth rate and behaviour were investigated in two trials with 32 pigs. The exercise took the form of running or walking four times the length of a concrete path twice a day. Food intake and rate of gain in body weight were decreased by exercise; the thickness of back fat was not significantly affected. Exercise increased the amount of time spent resting. It is concluded that exercise does not appear to be a practical method of producing leaner carcasses.
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