Effect of the season on some aspects of the estrous cycle in Martina Franca donkey.

摘要: The Martina Franca (MF) donkey breed, with 48 jackasses and 515 jennies, is considered an endangered breed according to the data from Monitoring Institute for Rare Breeds Seeds in Europe. knowledge of estrous cycle characteristics has a great impact assisted reproduction, especially species. In this study, were investigated 12 MF jennies throughout year. Estrous cycle, diestrous lengths, follicular growth ovulation, estradiol-17β (E2) progesterone (P4) plasma concentrations monitored compared different seasons. all (100%) was detected during whole year, no differences length among However, significant increase spring summer autumn winter found. Diestrus shorter than other behavior always shown characterized by rhythmic eversion vulvar labia (winking) exhibition clitoris, urination, male receptivity clapping, sialorrhoea, neck head extension, back ears. Estrus ovulation larger follicle winter. pattern E2 P4 similar that reported mare, but without four seasons, so negligible effect environmental conditions on ovarian secretion hypothesized, despite diameter ovulating summer.