Lietuvos Baltosios Senojo Tipo (Lithuanian White) Pig

Abstract

Lietuvos Baltosios senojo tipo pigs are remaining purebred pigs of local Lithuanian pig breed (Lietuvos Baltosios) adapted to the specific local environment and locally available feedstuffs. Although previously Lietuvos Baltosios was the main dam pig breed in Lithuania, regarding scientific substantiation, their performances and products are, as in the case of Lietuvos Baltosios remains (senojo tipo-old type) pigs, practically untapped. Thus, the present chapter aims to present history and current status of Lietuvos Baltosios senojo tipo pig breed, its exterior phenotypic characteristics, geographical location, production system and main products from this Lithuanian breed of pigs, one of the local pig breeds investigated in the project TREASURE. Moreover, a collection and review of available literature data, available until August 2017, on reproductive and productive traits of Lietuvos Baltosios senojo tipo pig breed were carried out. Reproductive and growth performance, and feed intake in different stages was estimated. Lean meat content was measured by ultrasonic equipment Piglog on the side of live pigs at the position of 12 ribs. Measurements of backfat thickness were taken with a ruler on the left side of carcasses at dorsal line of the mid-back at the last rib and loin area at the 1/2 lumbar vertebra by digital camera EX-Z110 and, afterwards, were planimetrically measured by means of the "SCAN-STAR K" planimetrical system. Meat quality traits of the longissimus muscle were evaluated using pH at 45 min and 24 h after slaughter, objective colour (CIE L*, a*, b*) and intramuscular fat content.

Native Pig Breeds as a Source of Biodiversity—Breeding and Economic Aspects

“…These breeds are threatened with extinction. Lithuanian White pigs were refined by crossing with the following breeds: Large White, Middle White, Edelsweine, Berkshire, and local Danish pigs [105]. These animals are known for their strong constitution and low stress susceptibility [106].…”

“…The Lithuanian White and Native Lithuanian breeds are characterized by daily weight gains of 743.3 and 619.2 g, the IMF content in longissimus lumborum is 2.14 and 2.26%, and the value of the L* parameter of their meat is 54.48 and 55.53, respectively [107]. The lean meat content in the carcass is 50% and 47%, respectively [105,106]. Pigs of the Lithuanian White breed are endangered and Native Lithuanian pigs have a critical status.…”