Farm Animals

Farmed Pig Genetic Diversity: Conservation and Welfare

Genetic diversity in pig farming affects both welfare resilience and conservation of rare breeds with distinct welfare profiles.

Key Facts

Commercial pig farming relies on a small number of breeds with limited genetic diversity
Genetic bottlenecks increase disease susceptibility and reduce adaptability to welfare challenges
Rare breeds including Tamworth and Middle White have distinct behaviour and health profiles
Breed conservation programmes maintain genetic diversity for future welfare improvement programmes

Welfare Considerations

Genetic diversity enables selection for welfare traits including robustness, temperament, and disease resistance. Rare breed conservation preserves genetic resources for future welfare improvement. Commercial producers who diversify genetics beyond dominant lines reduce disease vulnerability and improve welfare resilience.

What You Can Do

Support Rare Breeds Survival Trust conservation of pig genetic diversity
Choose products from rare or traditional breeds when available
Advocate for genetic diversity metrics in pig breeding programme requirements