Ankamali pig

The Ankamali pig is a breed of domestic pig indigenous to the Ernakulam district of Kerala, India, particularly the areas surrounding the town of Angamaly. It is characterized as a small-sized, hardy breed well-adapted to the local climate and traditional farming practices.

Historically, Ankamali pigs were integral to the agrarian economy of the region, raised in backyards and smallholdings. They are known for their ability to thrive on locally available feed resources and their relatively high disease resistance. The breed is typically black or dark grey in color and possesses a distinctive pot-bellied appearance.

In recent decades, the Ankamali pig population has declined due to the introduction of crossbreeding programs with exotic breeds aimed at increasing meat production. This has led to concerns about the preservation of the breed's unique genetic characteristics and its role in local biodiversity. Conservation efforts are underway to promote the sustainable breeding and management of Ankamali pigs and to raise awareness about their cultural and economic significance. These efforts include documentation of the breed's traits, establishment of breeding programs, and promotion of niche markets for Ankamali pig products. The meat is considered to have a unique flavor profile by some consumers.