Explain The Pre-Selection Criteria For Replacement Gilts
There are selection criteria for replacement gilts. The pre-selection was started in the nursery stage when gilts have structural defects and hernias or ruptures were eliminated from consideration. The final-selection at approximately 126-147 days of age was a visual evaluation of feet and leg structure, underline, and external genitalia. Gilts that have a growth rate less than 600 g (1.3 lb.) were eliminated from consideration. Gilts met all selection criteria were approximately 40-50 percent of the total, and the gilts with high selection index score and desirable visual traits were entered to gilt