Meishan

The Meishan is a domestic pig breed associated with China's Taihu group. Its reproductive traits have led to research and use in other pig populations.

Associated with regional pigs in China's Taihu group, the breed became known through reproductive research and selective breeding. Descriptions of prolificacy concern tendencies within particular study populations, ages and husbandry conditions. Historical records should not become fixed numbers that every mother always produces.

Skin folds, large drooping ears and dark skin are conspicuous.

Black or dark skin with many folds and large downward-hanging ears is characteristic. The extent to which folds and ears obscure the eyes varies individually and with growth stage. Treat these features as information about head and skin structure, rather than describing the appearance as comical.

When large ears cover the eyes, the face can look shorter and more wrinkled. Do not infer precise age or reproductive ability from the number or extent of folds; consult actual growth records.

The breed is described through reproductive traits such as prolificacy. Litter size varies with surroundings and the mother's condition; it is not a fixed number for every individual.

Although illustrating livestock breeding for reproductive ability, reproductive numbers alone do not explain an animal's condition. A photograph of many young documents one individual at one time. Consider the mother's body condition, nursing and rest together with the young animals' living environment.

Check the actual population and date of records when describing reproductive characteristics. Skin folds and ear appearance do not have the same meaning as health or ease of management.

Skin folds and large ears require attention to the skin beneath and the surrounding environment. Observe comfortable movement and rest, and distinguish nutritional needs during pregnancy, lactation and growth. A reproductive reputation must not reduce attention to the mother's recovery and health.