Native pigs
Contrary to commercial pigs, Thai native pigs are predominantly raised by communities in
the northern region, representing almost half of the country’s native pig population (Table 1). The
average number of pigs per household is 4.3 head. Smallholders in the hill tribe communities
traditionally raise a few indigenous pigs following local custom and religion. Animals are sacrificed
at special celebrations such as New Year and wedding [7-9]. However, small pig populations
without any scrutinised breeding programme are always at risk of losing genetic diversity and
identity [10, 11].