Published online by Cambridge University Press: 02 September 2010
Ventilation rates of 0·14, 0·42 and 0·71 m3/min per pig (2·3, 6·9 and 11·5 air changes per hour) were compared at weight ranges from 42 to 65 kg and from 69 to 88 kg and at optimum ambient temperature and at 8°C above optimal. A total of 96 pigs was used, housed so that gases from manure decomposition were present. Growth rate and food conversion were not affected by ventilation rates, but food intake was significantly lower at the lowest ventilation rate compared with the other two rates at the hotter temperature only. The odours and gases at the lowest ventilation rate were such that attendants strongly objected to them.