Effect of different grazing systems on the performance of pigs, in growing and finishing phases, kept on white clover (Trifolium repens L.) pasture

This trial was carried out to determine the effect of continuous, alternated or rotational grazing systems on the performance of pigs (feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion and backfat thickness), in the growing and finishing phases, as well as the forage availability and chemical composition of a white clover pasture (Trifolium repens L.). Thirty-six castrated pigs were allotted to a randomized complete-block experimental design with three treatments and three replications. Twelve feedlot pigs were kept on a rearing system. No significant differences were found between grazing systems on parameters of animal performance and forage on offer. However, significant differences were observed on the pasture chemical composition between the grazing systems studied. Pigs reared on white clover pasture consumed from 13.41 to 15.92% less feed and showed smaller backfat thickness and weight gain than pigs reared in the confined system. No significant differences on feed conversion between feedlot pigs and pigs under pasture conditions were observed.

feedlot; forage; grazing system; pasture