Effect of buck’s body weight on some reproductive parameters and it’s relation with sexual behavior

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the relation of body weight with testicular parameters, sexual behavior and sex hormones. The study was conducted within two months, August and September. Eighteen native black bucks were randomly assigned to three groups (n=6) according to their body weights, 30-35, 36-40 and 41-45 kg. All animals were reared under a semi-intensive system. The analysis of data revealed direct correlation of testicular parameters as scrotal circumference, right and left testicular length and volume with the body weight. The results at August show that the bucks body weight when increased, many sexual behaviors improve significantly as attempted mounts, snuffing, flehmen response, time for 1st mating and time for 1st jump. As for sexual behavior at September, the attempted mounts, snuffing, flehmen response, number of mating, time for 1st mating and time for 1st jump, improve significantly in the bucks with heavy weight as compared to low weight bucks. Also, the number of mating (ejaculation) is better numerically at September compared to August. For the effect of buck’s body weight on sexual hormones, testosterone concentration increases significantly at both, August and September as body weight increased, and conversely, both LH and estrogen levels are reduced as body weight increases. In conclusion, the current study reveals that there is a direct relation between the local buck’s body weight and most of the testicular parameters, sexual behavior and sexual hormones activity.

Keywords

• estrogen
• goat
• sexuality
• testosterone
• weight