Die invloed van liggaamsparameters op die reproduksieprestasie van karakoelooie

Author: A.S. Faure & G.J. Minnaar
Year: 1988
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Page: 88 - 92

The influence of body parameters on the reproductive performance of Karakul ewes.  

The influence of body mass, condition and size on the reproduction of mature Karakul ewes was investigated during the seasonal anestrum and breeding periods. Variation in body mass and condition was initiated by the application of three levels of feeding, consisting of a submaintenance (P), maintenance (P0) and maintenance plus (P+) diet. Animals were subjected to these feeding levels for 14 weeks with the commencement of natural mating (24 days) after 8 weeks. Body size (wither height, wither to ischium length, chest width, depth and circumference) was determined at the commencement of the investigation, as well as a subjective assessment of body condition, with the latter being repeated just prior to mating. Body mass was determined at weekly intervals throughout the feeding period. Reproduction was evaluated in terms of the percentage of ewes showing oestrus, the number of ovulations per ewe, percentage of ewes lambed, and lambs born. The percentage of ewes displaying oestrus and the ovulation rate during both seasons did not differ significantly (P > 0,05) between feeding treatments, while the percentage of ewes that lambed as a result of mating during both seasons decreased with feeding treatment in the order P0, P+, P. However, no significant (P > 0,05) relationship existed between conception and/or embryo survival and the body parameters of mass, condition and size or the change in these parameters during the feeding period. With the exception of some extremely low and high values, body parameters (mass, condition or size) were not linked to normal reproduction in the Karakul ewe in this investigation.

Keywords: body mass, condition and size, Karakul ewe, Reproduction
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