Reprod Domest Anim. 2022 Jun 11. doi: 10.1111/rda.14178. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to assess if vulvar morphometric changes occurring in female pigs during proestrus and estrus could be objective, accurate and predictive indicators of the onset to estrus and thus performed artificial inseminations at the most appropriate time. For that purpose, pictures of vulvas from 60 hyperprolific females (30 gilts and 30 sows) during proestrus and estrus were taken once a day. Vulva measurements (area, perimeter, length and width) on these pictures were performed using the image processing ImageJ software. Gilts and sows showed statistical differences (P<0.01) in all vulvar morphometric measurements between proestrus and estrus. Statistical differences in vulvar metrics were detected 24h before the onset to estrus, affecting all vulvar measurements in gilts, whereas only vulvar width was affected in sows. The image analysis used in this study may contribute to the development of smart technology in swine farming.
PMID:35689465 | DOI:10.1111/rda.14178
