Morphological Characterization of Native Pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus L.) in Bohol Province, Philippines

Abstract

This study assessed the morphological characteristics of the native pig population in Bohol Island, Philippines. A total of 100 sexually-mature native pigs (80% gilt/sow and 20% barrow/boar) were selected from the municipalities of Balilihan, Bilar, Talibon, Ubay, Loon, Guindulman, Mabini, San Miguel, Pilar, and Alburquerque, which are densely populated with native pigs (based on the data of the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian-Bohol). Purposive sampling was used to select the experimental pigs based on the phenotypic traits that qualify them as native. Likewise, remote barangays where native pigs are most likely raised were selected as sample sites. The qualitative (hair color, color pattern, and ear orientation) and quantitative (tail length, teat number, estimated body weight using body length, and heart girth measurements) traits were recorded based on subjective observation and actual measurements, respectively. Qualitatively, the native pigs in Bohol have predominantly (73%) black hair. In terms of color pattern, plain color (91%), spotted (4%), and patchy (5%) were noted. The native pigs also revealed droopy (54%), slightly droopy (37%), and erect (9%) ear orientations. Meanwhile, quantitative traits revealed an overall body length of 38.07 ± 8.75 inches, heart girth of 36.9 ± 8.83 inches, body weight of 67.29 ± 41.15 kg, tail length of 9.78 ± 2.45 inches, and 12.38 ± 1.33number of teats. Significant differences across sampling areas(p<0.05)and sex (p<0.01) were observed. Generally, females had higher values than males, and there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in trait values among age groups.