Fifty crossbreed gilts (1/2 Landrace, 1/4 Large White e 1/4 Pietran) with average weight of 154.5 + 2.93 and 175.1 + 8.53 kg at second and third reproductive cycle respectively, were used to evaluate different crude protein (CP) levels in gestation diet. A randomized block design, with five treatments, ten replicates and one animal by experimental unit was used. The treatments corresponded to rations with 10.0, 11.5, 13.0, 14.5, and 16.0% of crude protein. Sow weight gain, piglet average weight at weaning and piglet weight gain were affected quadractly in the second reproductive cycle by crude protein levels.The best estimated performance for sow weight gain was at 13.30% CP level, and 12.80% CP for piglet average weight at weaning and piglet weight gain. Sow weight gain, number of weaned piglets and litter born weight in third reproductive cycle increased linearly. Mortality decreased linearly in both reproductive cycles. Piglets weights and number of piglets born alive were not influenced by any reproductive cycles. It is concluded based in the energy efficiency that the best crude protein level in gestation diet for sows of second and third reproductive cycle, with average weight of 154.5 + 2.93 and 175.06 + 8.53, respectively, would be 13,0%, corresponding to a daily consumption of 234 g of crude protein and 0,66% of lysine.
consumption; estrus; litter; mortality; nursing; weaning
