Recent advances on synchronization of ovulation in goats, out of season, for a more sustainable production

Abstract

Goats show marked progressive seasonal reproduction at latitude > 25° and reproductive management should be adapted to market demands. The present review aimed to discuss the synchronization of ovulation for timed artificial insemination concerning new insights regarding a clean, green and ethical meat and milk production. Today, the induction of ovulation during breeding season or transitions periods is mainly based on progestagens/ progesterone (P4) devices intravaginally inserted on females, at least during 11 days, plus equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) and prostaglandin F2 alfa administration. In last years a reduction to 20 mg of fluorogestone acetate was made and the successful reutilization of devices containing 0.3 g of P4 indicates a possible reduction of their levels. Shortening the period of exogenous progestagens/P4 priming (5 to 7 days) is critical for a rational use of hormones. Moreover, the eCG exchange by socio-sexual cues (male effect) seems to see a great advance, even if a previous photoperiod treatment, or equivalent method, being necessary in high latitudes. Research trends on these subjects are expected in future using different goats breeds in distinct regions of world.

Keywords

• Anoestrous
• eCG
• Goats
• Ovulation
• Progesterone
• Socio-sexual cues