Mathematical Estimate of Growth Process in Mangalitsa Piglets

Abstract

The purpose of researches was to develop a mathematical model to simulate the growth process in piglets. The experiment was conducted on 53 Mangalitsa piglets, with initial weight (Wi) of 0.95 kg. The final weight was 30.7 kg. The piglets have been fed ad libitum with standard diets. Body weight, compound feed intake and feed conversion ratio were monitored throughout the experimental period. Housing environmental parameters were according to the growth technology. The feed samples were analyzed according the Weende scheme. The crude protein was determined by Tecator – Kyeltec Auto Analyze, the ether extract by Soxtec System HT and the brute cellulose by gravimetric method. The Gompertz-type functions were used for the mathematical modelling of the growth process. Gompertz function is a type of mathematical model for a time series, with sigmoid appearance. The weight evolution was evaluated from the initial weight (Wi). Based on data on the evolution of body weight was made a mathematical model that allows estimation of growth in standard conditions of maintenance.

Keywords

• growth
• mangalitsa
• piglet