Effect of group size and feeder type on growth performance and feeding patterns in growing pigs.

The effects of four group sizes (2, 4, 8, and 12 pigs per pen) and two single-space feeder types (conventional and electronic feed intake recording equipment (FIRE)) on feed intake, growth performance, and feeding patterns were determined in growing pigs over a 4-wk period. A total of 416 hybrid pigs (barrows and gilts) were grown from 26.5 (SD = 1.6) to 47.8 (SD = 2.7) kg BW and given ad libitum access to a corn- soybean meal-based diet (17.4% CP; 0.9% lysine; 3,298 kcal ME/kg). The floor space allowance was 0.9 m 2 /pig for all treatments. Pigs using the electronic feeders had similar growth rates but lower feed intakes (P 0.05) ADFI, and similar feed efficiency and feeding pattern. Feed intakes and growth rates were