Why are Italy’s black pigs not always black?

Italy has a range of indigenous pig breeds and the country is trying to keep these populations saved for future generations. The Nero Siciliano (or Sicilian Black) is one of them. Animals with white patterns are however also present in the herd book. What is the reason for this and how does it help save the population? Nero Siciliano are reared in Messina province on the island of Sicily, mainly under extensive management systems. The black breed is raised both for fresh meat and for salumi (co