EFFECTS OF NUTRITION AND PHOTOPERIOD ON REPRODUCTIVE PHYSIOLOGY OF MICROTUS MONTANUS.

摘要: A total of 140 pairs (one male, one female) known-age virgin Microtus montanus was used in two experiments lasting 18 weeks each. Pairs were divided into groups, placed under hr, the other 6 hr artificial illumination daily. Under each photoperiods, half received a dietary supplement sprouted wheat every 3 days (G), 15 (D). The G groups produced significantly more litters and offspring than did D groups. Irrespective diet, mean litter size larger 18-hr 6-hr illumination. Any superiority reproductive performance due to diet could be attributed solely frequent (G) supplementation with wheat. "Plant estrogens" are tentatively postulated as active principle. Diet photoperiod interact their influence on physiology (G-18 most productive group, D-6 least productive).