Effect of body condition of rahmani ewes on their follicular development during the first ovulatory wave after estrous synchronization

Abstract EN

Egyptian Rahmani ewes (n = 24) were used to investigate the effect of body condition score (BCS) of ewes at mating on their ovarian follicular development.

Ewes were classified into three groups (8 for each) according to their BCS to < 2, 2-< 3 and ≥ 3.

Estrus was synchronized using two vulval sub-mucosal doses of Estrumate (PGF2 α, each of 0.25 ml, 65 μg Cloprostenol) at 11- day interval.

B-mode linear array ultrasound scanner was used endorectally to monitor follicular growth on both ovaries at the first five days of the second injection of Estrumate.

Follicles were classified according to their diameters into three classes, small (≤ 0.3 cm), medium (> 0.3, to < 0.5 cm) and large (≥ 0.5 cm).

One way ANOVA was done (SAS, 2004) and Duncan’s Multiple Range test was used to differentiate between significant means.

In the left ovary, BCS significantly (P < 0.05) affected the number of both small and dominant follicles.

While in the right one, BCS significantly (P < 0.05) affected the number of both large and dominant follicles.

The total small, large and dominant follicles were significantly affected by BCS of Rahmani ewes.

While no significant differences were recorded for the effect of BCS of ewes on both medium and total follicles.

Therefore, it is recommended to control body conditions around the score of 3 to get higher ovulation rate and to increase the opportunity of enhancing twining rate of Rahmani ewes.