Impact of Dietary Lysine Supplementation on Growth Performance of Large White Pigs in Tropical Environments

Context: The presence of lysine in the feed ration of pigs optimizes their growth rate and feed efficiency. Objective: This study evaluated the effect of lysine supplementation on the production performance of weaned piglets. Methods: A total of 120 Large White weanlings were subjected to four treatments (L0.95, L1, L1.15, and L1.3) with four replicates. Animals in batches L0.95, L1, L1.15 and L1.3 were fed a base ration supplemented with 0.95%, 1%, 1.15% and 1.3% lysine, respectively. Data were collected on feed intake, body weights and body measurements, such as back length, thoracic perimeter and height at the withers. The data collected were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Results: This study showed that live weight and feed intake were statistically similar for all batches; however, batch L1 gave the best feed intake index and average daily gain compared to the other batches. The strongest correlation was observed between weight and chest circumference. Economic evaluation revealed that the best production costs were found in batches L1 and L1.15. Conclusion: Lysine supplementation at 1% in the diet resulted in better production and economic performance in large white piglets. Implications: Lysine is a limiting factor in the growth of weaned pigs and strongly recommended to breeders.