**2.1 Phenotypic characterisation**

Nicobari pig is a registered descriptive domesticated pig breed of India (INDIA\_PIG\_3300\_NICOBARI\_09005). Molecular characterisation with use of microsatellite markers on local pig breeds revealed that the Nicobari pig has mean observed heterozygosity of 0.70 0.09 and Andaman local pig has 0.72 0.07 and both were has significantly higher mean observed heterozygosity than in the Large White Yorkshire as 0.56 0.07, the present study result indicated that Andaman

Local pig as well as Nicobari pigs are genetically different from the exotic pig breeds of LWY as well as from other Indian indigenous pig breeds such as Gahuri, North Indian desi and Ankamali [16]. Nicobari pig population was highest in Car Nicobar followed by Chowra, Teressa, Nancowry and Katchal. At present, this indigenous pig breed is under the endangered and threatened category and immediate conservation effort is necessary. In Nicobar and other parts of Islands where the Nicobar tribes are living, there is no commercial pig rearing system or commercial pork production system among the Nicobari tribal community. The pigs are also exchanged as gift between families and islands, bartering within their communities. This porter or exchange practice has significantly reduced the inbreeding among the pigs in the villages. Nicobari pigs are short in stature with compact body, black/ brownish or creamy white or reddish brown or blackish brown coat, light brown or pinky and strong muzzle, light brownish creamy-white or light blackish white hooves and small eyelids with brown or creamy white and short, coarse, straight ears and attached with close to the head or body. In some pockets of islands, piglets were shown with dark brownish red stripes in the dorsal part of the body and this appearance of striped piglets is an essential indicator of primitive pig type or marker of origination of this pig from wild group of pigs. The majority of the pigs appears small to medium sized, short legged, short with a long body and their skin colour includes black, grey, brown and blackish brown. Sometime, the ventral side (belly region) were coloured with cream or white and in some pigs the pattern of colouring has extended throughout the whole body. The bristles are dense, coarse with black or brown or creamy in colour. This pig has a marked bristle crest or mane on the dorsal part of the pig which is extending to tail base from mid head/shoulder. Slight downward curvature or arch of the back/low back is considered as the most common feature in this pig breed. There are no facial warts in pigs. These breeds are sturdy and short compared to other desi breeds. Head is short with a strong slightly curved (downward) snout and large jowl. Some pigs inside the jungle are reported with long big head and strong lengthy snout with aggressive indicates wildness. Neck is short, clean and heavy. The shoulders are light, firm and free from coarseness, medium width and well attached to body. The body is medium length, slightly arched (downwards) at back, no uniform breadth/sides, well sprung ribs, strong and slightly wider loin and back; slightly broad hams, well-filled but not up to hocks. Nicobari pigs have large, capacious/heavy and moderately pot-bellied abdomen. The fascial profiles of pigs vary from flat to concave giving a docile nature and rooting behaviour. The legs of pig are short, strong, smooth pattern with or without wrinkles and they are fast runners. The legs are square with body. Tail is generally medium to long in size and the characteristic feature of the tail is that no curling observed and it is straight extending beyond hock. Uncastrated pigs live inside the jungle are heavy weight with well grown tusk, ferocious in nature and attempts to attack the strange people, those enter inside the jungle. This indigenous pig breed is healthy, very active, alert and fast runner and well adapted to the local environment of Nicobar. These parameters mark that the Nicobari pigs are originated or descendent from wild boar i.e. *Sus scrofa*, however, they are still in domestication process [7, 10–12].

provide pigs with commercial feed. Feeding the pigs, both in morning and evening is the important routine of the day and these pigs are very active both in very early morning and late evening and move in batches of 4 to 20 to eat feeds [17]. No feed (ration) is prepared separately for the pigs. The pigs are grown and fattened using locally available feed resources and without any concentrate ration. Nicobari pigs are omnivorous, though largely vegetarian; are opportunists and most will eat a wide range of food of animal origin. The pigs are fed with copra, coconut and its water, ripe pandanus fruit, bread fruit, Nicobari aalu, root crops, both fresh and cooked fish, poor quality fish waste, crab, coconut beetles, kitchen and vegetable waste and other commonly found arthropods. Pigs are also fond of dehusking ripe coconuts and breaking the hard nut to enable them to eat the coconut kernel. Some of these pigs are also found on the sea shore, especially during the low tide, scavenging for snails, shellfish and other sea creatures. This Nicobari pig breed has very good behaviour on rooting and gets sufficient nutrient rice feeds especially on wild palm root and also eats crabs, small insects and also other sea wastes which are in sea shore areas. Four local or indigenously available feed materials such as pandanus, coconut, and Nicobari aalu and bread fruit are commonly fed to pigs by the tribals. Coconut is the main feed for Nicobari pigs and almost one third of the total coconut produce is reserved for feeding their pigs. Pigs are fattened mainly on coconut feeding. In Teressa Island, pigs are fed with poor quality fish, snails and meaty portions of seashells [13]. Although higher market value of coconuts, this Nicobari pigs are fed continuously with coconuts as these pigs are placed in a high position in the minds of the Nicobarese. At the time of feeding, the tribes have very different and distinct ways of calling the pigs, for example, by beating bamboo, producing different sounds by shouting at a peculiar high peak or singing particular songs. These animals soon respond to their owners and come to their respective place of feeding. It is observed that only the pigs of the concerned *tuhet* are turn up after listening such tuned call from his master. The calling the pigs for various purpose is different from one family to another one varying from mild vocal sweet tunes to heavy beating of bamboo pieces in a serially particular sound rhythm [15]. All the pigs gather at the place where the tribal man or woman breaks the coconut, remove the coconut with use of a special instrument from its outer shell and place the coconut with coconut water in the feeding trough or feeder which is locally known as "naam" in their Nicobari language, which is generally made from wood in various sizes as length is from 30 to 100 cm and width is from 15 to 20 cm. All the *Nicobarese* maintain one wooden stilt platform in their horticulture plantation to feed the pig. A lengthy hardwood with the size of 5 feet is removed the central portion till it forms in the shape of food container. It is used to keep sliced raw (*kutcha)* coconut to feed the pigs twice a day on regular basis [15]. After feeding, the animals wander back to the jungle, only to return to the village/household premises during night hours. Stem of big size bamboo is cut into two halves in middle with different length for feeding purposes. Hallow empty space is commonly used for feeding purpose. Other materials viz. old cans, shells of Giant clams (*Tridacna* spp.) and aluminium plates are used for feeding and watering. The pig feeder is most commonly prepared from thick wood, sea shell, bamboo or unutilisable plastic drums. The quantity of feed provided to the pigs is not measured; however, the farmers reported that it differs with presently availability as well as age of pigs. For each adult pig, approximately two to three small raw coconuts (weighing approximately 0.5 kg) are provided daily. The Nicobari tribes lay down on a raised or height of the wooden platform to supply feed to the pigs. Normally they feed 3-5 coconuts to each pig. Both men and women are equally involved in the feeding and management of the pigs. Women pay special attention to pregnant and nursing pigs. Moreover, oil extracted coconut powder, Nicobari aalu, pandanus

*Domestic Pig Germplasms of Andaman and Nicobar Islands*

*DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95916*

**211**

#### **2.2 Feeding practice**

The pig is managed under open grazing, free range systems in the coconut plantation and inside the dense forest. These pigs have the natural habitats include rain forest, mountain forest and plantation area. During day time, pigs roam freely in jungles in search of food and in evening, they return to their respective owners or remain in the forest. Feed and feeding practices reveal that none of the farmers

#### *Domestic Pig Germplasms of Andaman and Nicobar Islands DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95916*

Local pig as well as Nicobari pigs are genetically different from the exotic pig breeds of LWY as well as from other Indian indigenous pig breeds such as Gahuri, North Indian desi and Ankamali [16]. Nicobari pig population was highest in Car Nicobar followed by Chowra, Teressa, Nancowry and Katchal. At present, this indigenous pig breed is under the endangered and threatened category and immediate conservation effort is necessary. In Nicobar and other parts of Islands where the Nicobar tribes are living, there is no commercial pig rearing system or commercial pork production system among the Nicobari tribal community. The pigs are also

*Landraces - Traditional Variety and Natural Breed*

exchanged as gift between families and islands, bartering within their communities. This porter or exchange practice has significantly reduced the inbreeding among the pigs in the villages. Nicobari pigs are short in stature with compact body, black/ brownish or creamy white or reddish brown or blackish brown coat, light brown or pinky and strong muzzle, light brownish creamy-white or light blackish white hooves and small eyelids with brown or creamy white and short, coarse, straight ears and attached with close to the head or body. In some pockets of islands, piglets were shown with dark brownish red stripes in the dorsal part of the body and this appearance of striped piglets is an essential indicator of primitive pig type or marker of origination of this pig from wild group of pigs. The majority of the pigs appears small to medium sized, short legged, short with a long body and their skin colour includes black, grey, brown and blackish brown. Sometime, the ventral side (belly

region) were coloured with cream or white and in some pigs the pattern of colouring has extended throughout the whole body. The bristles are dense, coarse with black or brown or creamy in colour. This pig has a marked bristle crest or mane on the dorsal part of the pig which is extending to tail base from mid head/shoulder. Slight downward curvature or arch of the back/low back is considered as the most common feature in this pig breed. There are no facial warts in pigs. These breeds are sturdy and short compared to other desi breeds. Head is short with a strong slightly curved (downward) snout and large jowl. Some pigs inside the jungle are reported with long big head and strong lengthy snout with aggressive indicates wildness. Neck is short, clean and heavy. The shoulders are light, firm and free from coarseness, medium width and well attached to body. The body is medium length, slightly arched (downwards) at back, no uniform breadth/sides, well sprung ribs, strong and slightly wider loin and back; slightly broad hams, well-filled but not up to hocks. Nicobari pigs have large, capacious/heavy and moderately pot-bellied abdomen. The fascial profiles of pigs vary from flat to concave giving a docile nature and rooting behaviour. The legs of pig are short, strong, smooth pattern with or without wrinkles and they are fast runners. The legs are square with body. Tail is generally medium to long in size and the characteristic feature of the tail is that no curling observed and it is straight extending beyond hock. Uncastrated pigs live inside the jungle are heavy weight with well grown tusk, ferocious in nature and attempts to attack the strange people, those enter inside the jungle. This indigenous pig breed is healthy, very active, alert and fast runner and well adapted to the local environment of Nicobar. These parameters mark that the Nicobari pigs are originated or descendent from wild boar i.e. *Sus scrofa*, however, they are still in domestication process

The pig is managed under open grazing, free range systems in the coconut plantation and inside the dense forest. These pigs have the natural habitats include rain forest, mountain forest and plantation area. During day time, pigs roam freely in jungles in search of food and in evening, they return to their respective owners or remain in the forest. Feed and feeding practices reveal that none of the farmers

[7, 10–12].

**210**

**2.2 Feeding practice**

provide pigs with commercial feed. Feeding the pigs, both in morning and evening is the important routine of the day and these pigs are very active both in very early morning and late evening and move in batches of 4 to 20 to eat feeds [17]. No feed (ration) is prepared separately for the pigs. The pigs are grown and fattened using locally available feed resources and without any concentrate ration. Nicobari pigs are omnivorous, though largely vegetarian; are opportunists and most will eat a wide range of food of animal origin. The pigs are fed with copra, coconut and its water, ripe pandanus fruit, bread fruit, Nicobari aalu, root crops, both fresh and cooked fish, poor quality fish waste, crab, coconut beetles, kitchen and vegetable waste and other commonly found arthropods. Pigs are also fond of dehusking ripe coconuts and breaking the hard nut to enable them to eat the coconut kernel. Some of these pigs are also found on the sea shore, especially during the low tide, scavenging for snails, shellfish and other sea creatures. This Nicobari pig breed has very good behaviour on rooting and gets sufficient nutrient rice feeds especially on wild palm root and also eats crabs, small insects and also other sea wastes which are in sea shore areas. Four local or indigenously available feed materials such as pandanus, coconut, and Nicobari aalu and bread fruit are commonly fed to pigs by the tribals. Coconut is the main feed for Nicobari pigs and almost one third of the total coconut produce is reserved for feeding their pigs. Pigs are fattened mainly on coconut feeding. In Teressa Island, pigs are fed with poor quality fish, snails and meaty portions of seashells [13]. Although higher market value of coconuts, this Nicobari pigs are fed continuously with coconuts as these pigs are placed in a high position in the minds of the Nicobarese. At the time of feeding, the tribes have very different and distinct ways of calling the pigs, for example, by beating bamboo, producing different sounds by shouting at a peculiar high peak or singing particular songs. These animals soon respond to their owners and come to their respective place of feeding. It is observed that only the pigs of the concerned *tuhet* are turn up after listening such tuned call from his master. The calling the pigs for various purpose is different from one family to another one varying from mild vocal sweet tunes to heavy beating of bamboo pieces in a serially particular sound rhythm [15]. All the pigs gather at the place where the tribal man or woman breaks the coconut, remove the coconut with use of a special instrument from its outer shell and place the coconut with coconut water in the feeding trough or feeder which is locally known as "naam" in their Nicobari language, which is generally made from wood in various sizes as length is from 30 to 100 cm and width is from 15 to 20 cm. All the *Nicobarese* maintain one wooden stilt platform in their horticulture plantation to feed the pig. A lengthy hardwood with the size of 5 feet is removed the central portion till it forms in the shape of food container. It is used to keep sliced raw (*kutcha)* coconut to feed the pigs twice a day on regular basis [15]. After feeding, the animals wander back to the jungle, only to return to the village/household premises during night hours. Stem of big size bamboo is cut into two halves in middle with different length for feeding purposes. Hallow empty space is commonly used for feeding purpose. Other materials viz. old cans, shells of Giant clams (*Tridacna* spp.) and aluminium plates are used for feeding and watering. The pig feeder is most commonly prepared from thick wood, sea shell, bamboo or unutilisable plastic drums. The quantity of feed provided to the pigs is not measured; however, the farmers reported that it differs with presently availability as well as age of pigs. For each adult pig, approximately two to three small raw coconuts (weighing approximately 0.5 kg) are provided daily. The Nicobari tribes lay down on a raised or height of the wooden platform to supply feed to the pigs. Normally they feed 3-5 coconuts to each pig. Both men and women are equally involved in the feeding and management of the pigs. Women pay special attention to pregnant and nursing pigs. Moreover, oil extracted coconut powder, Nicobari aalu, pandanus

fruit (locally known as kevri); tapioca (malayal aalu) and also fish waste are fed in addition to feeding of raw coconut. The tribals do not cook or prepare any rationed feed separately to feed the pigs. However, pigs are still deficiency of balanced nutrition (energy, protein and minerals) and therefore, it is an urgent need to improve the knowledge and skill of technical know-how on feed resource management for the tribal people to enhance the pig/pork production system in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is also observed that some pigs never came to the residential area and just lives in the forest. The respective farmer regularly goes to the forest in the evening time to feed their pigs. It is interesting to observe that some tribes carried incense (locally available) sticks while feeding in the forest. By smelling the smoke, the roaming pigs recognised their owners and knew they are going to be fed [7, 10–12].

types of night shelter are provided for pigs. In 58% of households, the pigs are housed underneath the tribe's hut. The huts are made in appropriate height from the floor to protect the pigs from heavy rainfall and other inclement weather. Seventysix percent of shelters have concrete floors and they are cleaned regularly. On the other hand, in 42% of household, separate indigenous pig sties made of bamboo or other indigenous plant material are provided. The size of the sty varies according to the size of the pig and population. The pigs marked for slaughter and feral pigs caught from jungles were kept in separate wooden enclosures with roofs made of wild leaves or long grasses. The shelters are generally made of pieces of wooden planks, tree branches and the roofing is made using leaves/grasses [7, 10–12]. The shelters are made in different sizes depending on the population. Nicobari tribes in Teressa Island are using sea sand as the suitable bedding material for sows as well as old rags; cloths and/or dry big size leaves are used for new born piglets as bedding

*Domestic Pig Germplasms of Andaman and Nicobar Islands*

*DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95916*

Adult body weight of Nicobari pig is 175-200 kg. Dressing percentage, live weight at slaughter (kg) and average age at slaughter (months) was reported as 70-80, 112.82 14.26 and 12.76 1.07, respectively. Both growers and adults are slaughtered. Pig slaughter and pork consumption pattern revealed that there is no commercial system of pig rearing or sale of pork prevailed among the tribal people. They rear pigs mainly for consumption during different festivals, ceremonies, village functions and inter village sports. During the functions, all the tribal people of a particular village assemble and take part in a fight between pigs and the tribe popularly known as "pig fight". The tribe members fight the pigs either alone or in a group. After defeating a pig, it is subjected to slaughter. Slaughtering of the pigs is carried out in different locations including the pig farmer's own premise, as there is no organised slaughterhouse. The slaughter procedure is done very systematically. Pigs are killed by direct cardiac puncture using a sharp-ended stick and the entire pig is roasted in a fire for scalding and cut off parts for consumption. Dressing percentage is found high; varied from 70 to 80%. The pig fat is smeared over the meat for long-term storage. Most of the festivals and ceremonies are cantered on pig and the pig festival (Cana-haun in Nicobari language). Mostly, male/boars are

Pigs are allowed for open range feeding and breeding occurs in the forest area. Reproductive performance reveals that natural mating is occurred in the jungle as in free-range systems of farming. The reproduction of this Nicobari pig stock is very high in comparison to other livestock. In general, the breeding male resides in jungle and also it is difficult to see or collect. The adult mature female pig goes to inside the jungle to cross with the adult boar at the breeding cycle. Reproductive performances of pigs are as age at first farrowing (months), litter size (number) and farrowing interval was 10.91 0.85, 8.06 0.33 piglets and 17.91 0.33, respectively. The age at first farrowing is 10 to 12 months, the litter size is normally 6 to 10, farrowing interval is 8-10 months and the method of mating is natural. It is observed that before farrowing, the pregnant sow goes to jungles and prepares nests with wild leaves, grasses and some other plant materials and this indicates that the Nicobari pig has inherent behaviour for fashioning or building their nest. Pregnant sows and nursing sows are cared by the tribal women with utmost important which is same as traditional pig rearing practices which is followed at Kebar and Manokwari where

materials [13].

**2.5 Slaughter practices**

preferred for slaughter [7, 10–12].

**2.6 Reproductive performances**

**213**

#### **2.3 Genetic characterisation**

The allele size range, observed and effective number of alleles, observed and expected heterozygosity and polymorphic information content (PIC) at 23 loci in Nicobari pig are studied. The allele size range varies from 86 to 116 bp at locus SW936 to 280–296 at locus IGFI. The total number of alleles ranges between 5 (S0178, SW951, SW24 and S0386) and 11 (S0355). The effective number of alleles ranges from 2.97 (SW24) to 7.9 (S0355). The mean observed number of alleles for all 23 loci in Nicobari pigs is 6.96 0.31. The observed heterozygosities are lower than the expected values at all the 23-studied loci in Nicobari pig. The mean expected and observed heterozygosities are 0.75 0.01 and 0.655 0.02, respectively. The mean PIC for all the 23-studied loci is 0.74 0.01 [7].

Herd composition of individual Nicobari pig family is 15.56 2.59, 2.33 0.33, 2.00 0.48, 2.70 0.90 and 1.83 0.31 for herd size, sows, boars, growers and piglets respectively. They can survive with a very low level of management [4, 18]. The herd statistics reveals that the pig herd size per household ranges from 7.5 to 10.0 with a mean of 8.9. The herd size of Nicobari pig in every individual family in Nancowry, Teressa and Car Nicobar varies between 10 and 15 and is higher than on other islands. The overall herd size of the Nicobari pig is 12.46. It is recorded that 33.2% of farmers kept less than 5 pigs, 47.1% of farmers kept more than 10 pigs and 19.7% of farmers kept 5–10 pigs in their house. The herd composition reveals that the adult female population ranged between 9 and 20 percent. The adult breeding populations are important to further propagate the germplasm and there is an immediate need to increase breedable population of female pigs in Nicobar group of islands. 97.2% of household are rearing indigenous Nicobari pigs whereas remaining 2.8% are rearing Large White Yorkshire crossbreeds. Pigs for fattening purpose are reared by 84% of farmers. Black-coloured pigs are preferred by 86.7% of farmers, 6.7% liked white ones and 6.6% had no colour preference. Husbandry practices reveal that the tribal farmers did not rear pigs as a source of income. All the animals are used for domestic consumption during weddings and other festivals [7, 10–12].

#### **2.4 Husbandry practices**

Pigs in Nicobar do not have separate house/shelter or sty. Pigs are mainly resting underneath the tribal's hut/shelter. The Nicobari shelters/hut are prepared in sufficient height from the ground floor with approximately 2-3 m to assure a sufficient space/place for pig and piglets to get sufficient rest and also to protect from heavy rainfall in Nicobar islands [7, 10–12]. No separate pig house or sty or any housing pattern is constructed for the pigs. A separate enclosure/shelters for piglet are made using locally available material usually bamboos by the tribes of all the islands. Two *Domestic Pig Germplasms of Andaman and Nicobar Islands DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95916*

types of night shelter are provided for pigs. In 58% of households, the pigs are housed underneath the tribe's hut. The huts are made in appropriate height from the floor to protect the pigs from heavy rainfall and other inclement weather. Seventysix percent of shelters have concrete floors and they are cleaned regularly. On the other hand, in 42% of household, separate indigenous pig sties made of bamboo or other indigenous plant material are provided. The size of the sty varies according to the size of the pig and population. The pigs marked for slaughter and feral pigs caught from jungles were kept in separate wooden enclosures with roofs made of wild leaves or long grasses. The shelters are generally made of pieces of wooden planks, tree branches and the roofing is made using leaves/grasses [7, 10–12]. The shelters are made in different sizes depending on the population. Nicobari tribes in Teressa Island are using sea sand as the suitable bedding material for sows as well as old rags; cloths and/or dry big size leaves are used for new born piglets as bedding materials [13].

#### **2.5 Slaughter practices**

fruit (locally known as kevri); tapioca (malayal aalu) and also fish waste are fed in addition to feeding of raw coconut. The tribals do not cook or prepare any rationed feed separately to feed the pigs. However, pigs are still deficiency of balanced nutrition (energy, protein and minerals) and therefore, it is an urgent need to improve the knowledge and skill of technical know-how on feed resource management for the tribal people to enhance the pig/pork production system in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is also observed that some pigs never came to the residential area and just lives in the forest. The respective farmer regularly goes to the forest in the evening time to feed their pigs. It is interesting to observe that some tribes carried incense (locally available) sticks while feeding in the forest. By smelling the smoke, the roaming pigs recognised their owners and knew they are going to be fed

The allele size range, observed and effective number of alleles, observed and expected heterozygosity and polymorphic information content (PIC) at 23 loci in Nicobari pig are studied. The allele size range varies from 86 to 116 bp at locus SW936 to 280–296 at locus IGFI. The total number of alleles ranges between 5 (S0178, SW951, SW24 and S0386) and 11 (S0355). The effective number of alleles ranges from 2.97 (SW24) to 7.9 (S0355). The mean observed number of alleles for all 23 loci in Nicobari pigs is 6.96 0.31. The observed heterozygosities are lower than the expected values at all the 23-studied loci in Nicobari pig. The mean expected and observed heterozygosities are 0.75 0.01 and 0.655 0.02, respec-

Herd composition of individual Nicobari pig family is 15.56 2.59, 2.33 0.33, 2.00 0.48, 2.70 0.90 and 1.83 0.31 for herd size, sows, boars, growers and piglets respectively. They can survive with a very low level of management [4, 18]. The herd statistics reveals that the pig herd size per household ranges from 7.5 to 10.0 with a mean of 8.9. The herd size of Nicobari pig in every individual family in Nancowry, Teressa and Car Nicobar varies between 10 and 15 and is higher than on other islands. The overall herd size of the Nicobari pig is 12.46. It is recorded that 33.2% of farmers kept less than 5 pigs, 47.1% of farmers kept more than 10 pigs and 19.7% of farmers kept 5–10 pigs in their house. The herd composition reveals that the adult female population ranged between 9 and 20 percent. The adult breeding populations are important to further propagate the germplasm and there is an immediate need to increase breedable population of female pigs in Nicobar group of islands. 97.2% of household are rearing indigenous Nicobari pigs whereas remaining 2.8% are rearing Large White Yorkshire crossbreeds. Pigs for fattening purpose are reared by 84% of farmers. Black-coloured pigs are preferred by 86.7% of farmers, 6.7% liked white ones and 6.6% had no colour preference. Husbandry practices reveal that the tribal farmers did not rear pigs as a source of income. All the animals are used for domestic consumption during weddings and other festivals [7, 10–12].

Pigs in Nicobar do not have separate house/shelter or sty. Pigs are mainly resting underneath the tribal's hut/shelter. The Nicobari shelters/hut are prepared in sufficient height from the ground floor with approximately 2-3 m to assure a sufficient space/place for pig and piglets to get sufficient rest and also to protect from heavy rainfall in Nicobar islands [7, 10–12]. No separate pig house or sty or any housing pattern is constructed for the pigs. A separate enclosure/shelters for piglet are made using locally available material usually bamboos by the tribes of all the islands. Two

tively. The mean PIC for all the 23-studied loci is 0.74 0.01 [7].

[7, 10–12].

**2.3 Genetic characterisation**

*Landraces - Traditional Variety and Natural Breed*

**2.4 Husbandry practices**

**212**

Adult body weight of Nicobari pig is 175-200 kg. Dressing percentage, live weight at slaughter (kg) and average age at slaughter (months) was reported as 70-80, 112.82 14.26 and 12.76 1.07, respectively. Both growers and adults are slaughtered. Pig slaughter and pork consumption pattern revealed that there is no commercial system of pig rearing or sale of pork prevailed among the tribal people. They rear pigs mainly for consumption during different festivals, ceremonies, village functions and inter village sports. During the functions, all the tribal people of a particular village assemble and take part in a fight between pigs and the tribe popularly known as "pig fight". The tribe members fight the pigs either alone or in a group. After defeating a pig, it is subjected to slaughter. Slaughtering of the pigs is carried out in different locations including the pig farmer's own premise, as there is no organised slaughterhouse. The slaughter procedure is done very systematically. Pigs are killed by direct cardiac puncture using a sharp-ended stick and the entire pig is roasted in a fire for scalding and cut off parts for consumption. Dressing percentage is found high; varied from 70 to 80%. The pig fat is smeared over the meat for long-term storage. Most of the festivals and ceremonies are cantered on pig and the pig festival (Cana-haun in Nicobari language). Mostly, male/boars are preferred for slaughter [7, 10–12].

#### **2.6 Reproductive performances**

Pigs are allowed for open range feeding and breeding occurs in the forest area. Reproductive performance reveals that natural mating is occurred in the jungle as in free-range systems of farming. The reproduction of this Nicobari pig stock is very high in comparison to other livestock. In general, the breeding male resides in jungle and also it is difficult to see or collect. The adult mature female pig goes to inside the jungle to cross with the adult boar at the breeding cycle. Reproductive performances of pigs are as age at first farrowing (months), litter size (number) and farrowing interval was 10.91 0.85, 8.06 0.33 piglets and 17.91 0.33, respectively. The age at first farrowing is 10 to 12 months, the litter size is normally 6 to 10, farrowing interval is 8-10 months and the method of mating is natural. It is observed that before farrowing, the pregnant sow goes to jungles and prepares nests with wild leaves, grasses and some other plant materials and this indicates that the Nicobari pig has inherent behaviour for fashioning or building their nest. Pregnant sows and nursing sows are cared by the tribal women with utmost important which is same as traditional pig rearing practices which is followed at Kebar and Manokwari where

pregnant females get top prior attention on feeding and management and they are kept as close to the tribal house and also supplied good quality food, water and shelter to them. It is also reported that sows in their last stage of pregnancy go to the jungle, farrow there and do not return to tribal shelter until 2 to 3 weeks, later bringing along with piglets. As farrowing occurred in the forest, exact litter size and piglet mortality are not known. Based on tribal farmers assumption, it is revealed that the mean age at first farrowing (months), litter size (number) and farrowing interval (months) were 10.8 0.8, 6.8 0.4 and 8.3 0.4, respectively. It is reported that the teat number in Nicobari sows is varied from 5 to 6 pairs indicated that it has higher fecundity. The pigs are observed with good mothering characteristics. No weaning practice is followed. There is no information about the pre or post weaning mortality in pigs [7, 10–12].

piglets from one lineage or joint family to another lineage or family. Generally, markings resemble the symbols of claw and eyes of the crab, circle, half moon and similar identification cuts. It is a locally formatted act which is done by experienced tribal people of that specific lineage or family. In case, the identification cuts are wrong, the particular pig is killed and slaughtered and the particular concern person who marked wrongly is forced to eat the whole amount of pork without dividing with the other fellow *Nicobarese*. Such of different categories of ear cuts are visible in animals of the *Nicobarese* to know or identify the specific pig owner. In case no such identifications are seen on the pig ears, indicated that this is considered as wild boar and any person can hunt it for personnel purpose or consumption. In case mistakenly hunted the domestic one in the forest, it is given back to the concerned family by identifying its symbol on its ear. Pig slaughtering during ceremonial or any other domestic purposes, *Nicobarese* first remove the elongated piece of pork right from the earmarks to tail and displayed in front of the concerned house to prove its identity. Otherwise it is believed that others may mistake of its

*Domestic Pig Germplasms of Andaman and Nicobar Islands*

*DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95916*

*Nicobarese* generally uses the technique of *hinkuoñn* for catching the pig. In this technique, a tight rope is placed at different locations in the soil dibbled strong sticks and a round rope trap is located on ground close to its feeding trough or drinking water points. Finally it is attached to stick which is in the custody of hunter who hides in the nearby bush or tree, whenever it entangles the prey it tightly pull and caught by the waiting hunting party [15]. Hinkuoñn is a kind of trap used to catch pigs in the forest. An elongated rope is tied to a stick and a knot is made intermittently to facilitate easy tie of the rope to the leg of the pig. It is kept nearer to the regular feeding place and calls their hogs. When the pigs turn up for feeding

Lack of feed is found to be the biggest constraint. The main disease constraints are swine fever, parasitic diseases and respiratory problems. Swine fever as the main disease constraint in Nicobar pigs in Nicobar group of Islands. It was reported in the last decade, there was an outbreak of swine fever which caused mortality in

implemented by the Veterinary Department of Andaman and Nicobar Administration. Higher prevalence of parasitic diseases has also been observed. Worm infection is diagnosed by discerning of abdomen (67%), unthriftiness (43%) and poor appetite (41%). Only 33% of farmers practiced deworming. Other than diseases, the pigs were killed by the predators like python in the forest and street dogs [7]. There are various conditions such as natural calamities (tsunami and earthquake), predators (Reticulated pythons), outbreak of disease (swine fever) and non-availability of scientific breeding and farming practices leads to severe threat to the Nicobari pigs. Upto date there is three swine fever outbreaks have been observed from these Andaman and Nicobar islands. Nicobari pig breed which is available in Nicobar Islands are very much susceptible to this swine fever disease. The sero prevalence of swine fever was 41.75%, of which Lapathy in Car-Nicobar showed highest Seroprevalence of 21.87% followed by Diglipur (18.75%), Nancowry (14.28%) and Tamaloo (Car Nicobar, 3.13%). The prevalence of Ascariasis, infestation with tape worm and abnormal nutritional deficiencies were reported in pigs in Andaman and

young and adult pigs. A vaccination program against swine fever had been

authenticity [15].

are caught into trap [15].

**215**

**2.9 Disease management practices**

**2.8 Pig trapping techniques and tools**

The tribes have the knowledge and benefits of castration. It was believed that the castration might improve the body weight gain of pigs and makes the male pig more docile. Castration practices revealed that it was found that 94% of the farmers used to castrate their male pigs at the age of 3–4 months. Among the male piglets, the piglets with better vigour, body weight and health are not castrated; they are kept for breeding purpose. These practices indicate that the tribes have the knowledge of selection of good boar for breeding. Castration is performed in the dry season. The farmers use a surgical method of castration [7, 10–12].

One study was conducted to assess the effect of intensive and extensive system on different reproductive parameters. Results revealed that age at first oestrus (160.10 6.83 vs. 173.6 2.91 days), oestrus duration (66.00 0.44 vs. 88.56 3.57 hrs), age at first mating (160.00 5.77 vs. 188.10 2.41 days), gestation period (114.64 0.23 vs. 116.12 0.11 days), age at first farrowing (301.70 2.4 vs. 319.20 4.25 days), farrowing interval (226.00 6.20 vs. 242.40 4.84 days), litter size at farrowing (6.50 0.34 vs. 7.19 0.18), stillbirth (0.20 0.01 vs. 0.59 0.04 number per sow) and mortality (0.22 0.08 vs. 0.68 0.02 number per sow) are significantly lower in intensive system than free range system in female animals. Similarly oestrus cycle duration (26.09 0.22 vs. 21.01 0.20 days), litter weight at birth (0.83 0.29 vs. 0.79 0.71 kg), litter size at weaning (5.33 0.33 vs. 5.23 0.14), litter weight at weaning (31.28 3.19 vs. 24.52 3.15 kg) and litter weight at weaning (31.28 3.19 vs. 24.52 3.15 kg) are higher in intensive than in extensive system of rearing. In male, age at first mating (156.30 2.08 vs. 143.1 2.11 days) was significantly higher in intensive than in the extensive rearing system [19].

Body measurements (cm) such as chest girth (84.45 3.01 vs. 93.77 3.87), body length (84.88 4.08 vs. 78.56 2.77), height at withers (56.11 2.44 vs. 60.65 2.68) and neck girth (78.10 3.40 vs. 67.64 3.86) were differed between male and female Nicobari pigs in Nicobar group of Islands [20]. Similarly, body weights (kg) were significantly higher in intensive system than in extensive system in male and female animals at birth (0.86 0.05 vs. 0.81 0.06 and 0.81 0.09 vs. 0.79 0.07), weaning (6.56 0.27 vs. 4.95 0.15 and 5.17 0.12 vs. 4.42 0.13), 3 months (8.32 0.14 vs. 6.47 0.10 and 7.17 0.17 vs. 6.15 0.15), 6 months (50.00 0.20 vs. 28.39 0.30 and 42.27 0.32 vs. 26.47 0.22), 9 months (64.00 0.27 vs. 38.39 0.34 and 54.60 1.07 vs. 36.57 0.54) and 12 months (77.50 0.29 vs. 43.06 0.74 and 66.90 1.08 vs. 40.95 0.78). It is concluded that growth and reproductive performances of Nicobari pigs reared under intensive system has significantly higher beneficial than in free-range system [19].

#### **2.7 Identification of pigs**

Nicobari tribes identify their pigs in the systematic methods as they create identical cuts on the piglets' ears in such a way to easily identify or differentiate the *Domestic Pig Germplasms of Andaman and Nicobar Islands DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95916*

pregnant females get top prior attention on feeding and management and they are kept as close to the tribal house and also supplied good quality food, water and shelter to them. It is also reported that sows in their last stage of pregnancy go to the jungle, farrow there and do not return to tribal shelter until 2 to 3 weeks, later bringing along with piglets. As farrowing occurred in the forest, exact litter size and piglet mortality are not known. Based on tribal farmers assumption, it is revealed that the mean age at first farrowing (months), litter size (number) and farrowing interval (months) were 10.8 0.8, 6.8 0.4 and 8.3 0.4, respectively. It is reported that the teat number in Nicobari sows is varied from 5 to 6 pairs indicated that it has higher fecundity. The pigs are observed with good mothering characteristics. No weaning practice is followed. There is no information about the pre or

The tribes have the knowledge and benefits of castration. It was believed that the castration might improve the body weight gain of pigs and makes the male pig more docile. Castration practices revealed that it was found that 94% of the farmers used to castrate their male pigs at the age of 3–4 months. Among the male piglets, the piglets with better vigour, body weight and health are not castrated; they are kept for breeding purpose. These practices indicate that the tribes have the knowledge of selection of good boar for breeding. Castration is performed in the dry season. The

One study was conducted to assess the effect of intensive and extensive system on

88.56 3.57 hrs), age at first mating (160.00 5.77 vs. 188.10 2.41 days), gestation period (114.64 0.23 vs. 116.12 0.11 days), age at first farrowing (301.70 2.4 vs. 319.20 4.25 days), farrowing interval (226.00 6.20 vs. 242.40 4.84 days), litter size at farrowing (6.50 0.34 vs. 7.19 0.18), stillbirth (0.20 0.01 vs. 0.59 0.04 number per sow) and mortality (0.22 0.08 vs. 0.68 0.02 number per sow) are significantly lower in intensive system than free range system in female animals. Similarly oestrus cycle duration (26.09 0.22 vs. 21.01 0.20 days), litter weight at

5.23 0.14), litter weight at weaning (31.28 3.19 vs. 24.52 3.15 kg) and litter weight at weaning (31.28 3.19 vs. 24.52 3.15 kg) are higher in intensive than in extensive system of rearing. In male, age at first mating (156.30 2.08 vs. 143.1 2.11 days) was

Body measurements (cm) such as chest girth (84.45 3.01 vs. 93.77 3.87), body length (84.88 4.08 vs. 78.56 2.77), height at withers (56.11 2.44 vs. 60.65 2.68) and neck girth (78.10 3.40 vs. 67.64 3.86) were differed between male and female Nicobari pigs in Nicobar group of Islands [20]. Similarly, body weights (kg) were significantly higher in intensive system than in extensive system in male and female animals at birth (0.86 0.05 vs. 0.81 0.06 and 0.81 0.09 vs. 0.79 0.07), weaning (6.56 0.27 vs. 4.95 0.15 and 5.17 0.12 vs. 4.42 0.13), 3 months (8.32 0.14 vs. 6.47 0.10 and 7.17 0.17 vs. 6.15 0.15), 6 months (50.00 0.20 vs. 28.39 0.30 and 42.27 0.32 vs. 26.47 0.22), 9 months (64.00 0.27 vs. 38.39 0.34 and 54.60 1.07 vs. 36.57 0.54) and 12 months (77.50 0.29 vs. 43.06 0.74 and 66.90 1.08 vs. 40.95 0.78). It is concluded that growth and reproductive performances of Nicobari pigs reared under intensive

different reproductive parameters. Results revealed that age at first oestrus (160.10 6.83 vs. 173.6 2.91 days), oestrus duration (66.00 0.44 vs.

birth (0.83 0.29 vs. 0.79 0.71 kg), litter size at weaning (5.33 0.33 vs.

significantly higher in intensive than in the extensive rearing system [19].

system has significantly higher beneficial than in free-range system [19].

Nicobari tribes identify their pigs in the systematic methods as they create identical cuts on the piglets' ears in such a way to easily identify or differentiate the

**2.7 Identification of pigs**

**214**

post weaning mortality in pigs [7, 10–12].

*Landraces - Traditional Variety and Natural Breed*

farmers use a surgical method of castration [7, 10–12].

piglets from one lineage or joint family to another lineage or family. Generally, markings resemble the symbols of claw and eyes of the crab, circle, half moon and similar identification cuts. It is a locally formatted act which is done by experienced tribal people of that specific lineage or family. In case, the identification cuts are wrong, the particular pig is killed and slaughtered and the particular concern person who marked wrongly is forced to eat the whole amount of pork without dividing with the other fellow *Nicobarese*. Such of different categories of ear cuts are visible in animals of the *Nicobarese* to know or identify the specific pig owner. In case no such identifications are seen on the pig ears, indicated that this is considered as wild boar and any person can hunt it for personnel purpose or consumption. In case mistakenly hunted the domestic one in the forest, it is given back to the concerned family by identifying its symbol on its ear. Pig slaughtering during ceremonial or any other domestic purposes, *Nicobarese* first remove the elongated piece of pork right from the earmarks to tail and displayed in front of the concerned house to prove its identity. Otherwise it is believed that others may mistake of its authenticity [15].

#### **2.8 Pig trapping techniques and tools**

*Nicobarese* generally uses the technique of *hinkuoñn* for catching the pig. In this technique, a tight rope is placed at different locations in the soil dibbled strong sticks and a round rope trap is located on ground close to its feeding trough or drinking water points. Finally it is attached to stick which is in the custody of hunter who hides in the nearby bush or tree, whenever it entangles the prey it tightly pull and caught by the waiting hunting party [15]. Hinkuoñn is a kind of trap used to catch pigs in the forest. An elongated rope is tied to a stick and a knot is made intermittently to facilitate easy tie of the rope to the leg of the pig. It is kept nearer to the regular feeding place and calls their hogs. When the pigs turn up for feeding are caught into trap [15].

#### **2.9 Disease management practices**

Lack of feed is found to be the biggest constraint. The main disease constraints are swine fever, parasitic diseases and respiratory problems. Swine fever as the main disease constraint in Nicobar pigs in Nicobar group of Islands. It was reported in the last decade, there was an outbreak of swine fever which caused mortality in young and adult pigs. A vaccination program against swine fever had been implemented by the Veterinary Department of Andaman and Nicobar Administration. Higher prevalence of parasitic diseases has also been observed. Worm infection is diagnosed by discerning of abdomen (67%), unthriftiness (43%) and poor appetite (41%). Only 33% of farmers practiced deworming. Other than diseases, the pigs were killed by the predators like python in the forest and street dogs [7]. There are various conditions such as natural calamities (tsunami and earthquake), predators (Reticulated pythons), outbreak of disease (swine fever) and non-availability of scientific breeding and farming practices leads to severe threat to the Nicobari pigs. Upto date there is three swine fever outbreaks have been observed from these Andaman and Nicobar islands. Nicobari pig breed which is available in Nicobar Islands are very much susceptible to this swine fever disease. The sero prevalence of swine fever was 41.75%, of which Lapathy in Car-Nicobar showed highest Seroprevalence of 21.87% followed by Diglipur (18.75%), Nancowry (14.28%) and Tamaloo (Car Nicobar, 3.13%). The prevalence of Ascariasis, infestation with tape worm and abnormal nutritional deficiencies were reported in pigs in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. A mild outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD-type O) in pig was reported just after the episode of tsunami, 2004 [5].

reproductive and productive performances, it is highly liked by the rural tribal communities for supplementation of sufficient protein and income for the family. The ALP is associated with the socio-culture-economic-tradition of tribals. Andaman local pig is in general as semi-feral in behaviour and is mostly reared in extensive or free-range system with little amount of management. Mitogenome analysis revealed that this ALP can be evolved as an independent breed in Andaman and Nicobar Islands as merit for registration as a recognised pig breed [8]. This indigenous local pig is under the endangered position and immediate preservation, conservation propagation effort is need to be taken to safeguard the indigenous pig

*Domestic Pig Germplasms of Andaman and Nicobar Islands*

*DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95916*

Microsatellite markers have been used widely for the genetic characterisation of

animal breeds including pig [23–26]. The microsatellites are used to assess the genetic diversity at higher level among the large genetic resource pools of pigs throughout the world [25]. Andaman local pig was characterised by 23 FAO recommended microsatellite markers. The allele size range, observed and effective number of alleles, observed and expected heterozygosity and polymorphic information content (PIC) at 23 loci in Andaman local pig is explained. The allele size range varies from 86 to 116 bp at locus SW936 to 280–296 at locus IGFI. The alleles' total number is ranged between 5 (SW122, S0228, SW951, S0178 and SW24) and 12 (S0355). The effective number of alleles ranges from 3.14 (SW24) to 8.1 (S0355). The mean expected and observed number of alleles for all the different 23 loci in Desi pigs of Andaman are 5.09 0.20 and 7.04 0.37, respectively [18]. The mean value of effective number of alleles for Andaman local pig is found higher than South-African pig breeds, Mozambique (8.45), Kolbroek (6.18) and Kune-Kune (5.97) but is lower than Duroc (3.98) [27]. The mean effective number of alleles of the Indian pig breeds Desi, Gahuri and Ankamali are 5.00, 5.33 and 5.34 respectively [28]. Higher allele numbers in India populations than in European breeds indicated that isolation and selection effects of these pig populations have been mild or minimum. Andaman local pig has the observed heterozygosities is lower than the expected value at the 22nd loci in S0005. The mean expected and observed heterozygosities are 0.77 0.01 and 0.69 0.01, respectively. The mean PIC for all the 23 studied loci is 0.74 0.01. The genetic diversity in Andaman local pig is higher than the European pig breeds. The PIC is higher than Large White Yorkshire but comparable with other Indian pig breeds like Desi, Gahuri and Ankamali [28]. PIC values of all the microsatellite loci are above 0.5 which indicates that the microsatellite loci are suitable for detection of genetic diversity in Andaman local pig. Mean observed and expected heterozygosities of 23 microsatellite loci of Andaman local pig are found high indicating high genetic diversity of this pig breed. From the microsatellite data, it is also found that this pig breed is distinguishable from other pig breeds. As the pig breed is under the threat of extinction due to extensive cross breeding, serious effort must be initiated to conserve this breed in its breeding tract [18].

Reproductive parameters such as litter size at birth (no.), total and individual litter weight at birth (kg), litter size at weaning (no.), total and individual litter weight at weaning (kg) and pre and post-weaning mortality (%) are recorded. Growth parameters such as body weights (kg) from month 1 to 9 are recorded. Dressing percentage, fat thickness, percentage of lean, fat, meat: bone ratio and also bone are recorded for Andaman local pigs in separately for male and female pigs [20].

breed from disappearance [7].

**3.2 Genetic characterisation**

**3.3 Reproductive profiles**

**217**

#### **2.10 Complete uterine prolapse-a case report**

A Nicobari sows aged 2 years with complete prolapsed uterus was presented for treatment. History revealed that farrowing was normal and the hanging of prolapsed uterus was unnoticed for long period in the night time after farrowing. Everted uterine horns were protruded from vulva in clinical examination. The uterine masses which prolapsed were severely congested as well as oedematous. The values of body temperature, pulse and respiration rate were 102°F, 95/minute and 17/minute respectively. The prolapsed mass was cleaned with cold potassium permanganate (1:1000) solution. Ice packs were applied to reduce oedema. The rear part of the animals was elevated by placing gunny bags. After that attempts were given to replace the everted organ by gently pushing to its original position. However, the sow died due to prolonged exposure of complete prolapse in Nicobari pig [21].

#### **2.11 Conservation of Nicobari pigs**

Nicobari pig breed is believed as a local/indigenous pig germplasm belongs to this Andaman and Nicobar island territories. The external/phenotypic parameters revealed that this Nicobari pig breed is indigenous/ ethnic to these bay islands and their presence was reported since many decades. Nicobari pig revealed higher prolificacy as litter size varies from 8 to 10 numbers as well as lower preweaning mortality prevailed. Castrated boar and adult sow revealed significantly higher body weight (110-160 kg). The pigs are reared and considered as family asset among the tribal. No commercial farms or sale of meat is practiced. However, most of the pigs are slaughtered mostly during festive seasons or family/community ceremony. Awareness programme on conservation of indigenous pig germplasm and training on scientific pig farming is given for the Tribal and island farmers [11, 12]. Tribal families were identified for maintaining /conserving the pig germplasm.
