Mukota Pigs, also
known as the Rhodesian Indigenous or Zimbabwe Indigenous pigs, are primarily
found in Zimbabwe, but they also are found in Mozambique and Zambia.
Mukota pigs are
black, hardy in the tropics, resistant to disease and poor nutrition, and
require little water (6 liters per week). They fall into two broad classes. One
is short and fat, with a short snout resembling that of the Chinese Lard pig.
The other resembles the Windsnyer (Wind cutter) pigs, with long snout and
razorback.
They are believed
to have been introduced in the 17th century Europe and China trade and are
named after the Mukota region of northeastern Zimbabwe.
Reproduction
follows an annual rhythm with peak farrowing in the early rainy season
(October/November). Age at first litter ranges from 6 to 12 months, with mean
litter size between 6.5 and 7.5. Carcass yield is about 30 percent less than from the
exotic Large White pig, but is considered tasty and sweet.
Mukota pigs show
moderate parasite tolerance and are less prone than imported varieties to
internal parasites within commercial agriculture.
About Mukota Pigs
