In swine, what does ear notching help identify?

Ear notching in swine is a crucial practice for identifying individual animals and tracking information related to their birth. The primary purpose of this method is to denote the litter and individual number. Each notch placed in a specific location on the ear corresponds to a set of numeric codes that indicate the pig's litter of origin and its unique identification within that litter. This system allows for efficient record-keeping and facilitates the management and breeding of pigs, as producers can easily trace lineage and monitor genetic data over time.

In contrast to ear notching, breed identification typically relies on visual characteristics or specific registrations rather than physical notches. Weight assessments are usually performed using scales and are not indicated through ear notches. Lastly, gender identification can also be accomplished through observation of physical traits and does not necessitate the use of ear notching. Hence, the identification of litter and individual number through ear notching serves as a key practice in swine management and breeding programs.