Long-Term Immunocastration Protocols Successfully Reduce Testicles' Size in Bísaro Pigs.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Science
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Bísaro pigs (BP) possess unique breed and production system characteristics.
• Establishing an effective immunocastration protocol is crucial for managing male pigs in specific production systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the most suitable immunocastration protocol using Improvac for male Bísaro pigs.
• To evaluate the impact of different vaccination timings and numbers on reproductive organ development.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-five male Bísaro pigs were divided into groups receiving two or three Improvac vaccinations at different ages (9 or 13 weeks).
• A control group of intact males was maintained for comparison.
• Scrotal measurements and morphometry of testes and epididymides were assessed at slaughter.

Main Results:

• Immunocastration temporarily reduced scrotal dimensions, with variations based on the protocol.
• Scrotal size increased to post-pubertal levels before decreasing again after a second vaccination cycle.
• A three-vaccination protocol initiated at 3 months of age proved most effective for older slaughter ages.

Conclusions:

• A protocol involving three Improvac administrations, starting at 3 months and including a second cycle, is recommended for immunocastrating Bísaro pigs intended for older slaughter ages.
• This protocol effectively manages reproductive development in male Bísaro pigs.