Effect of Seasonal Variation on the Hormonal Profile of West African Dwarf (WAD) Goats
Effect of Seasonal Variation on the Hormonal Profile of West African Dwarf (WAD) Goats
Ayoola J. Shoyombo1, Ake A. Moses1, Comfort I. Ukim2, Mustapha A. Popoola2, Olayinka O. Alabi1, Noah C. Edozie1, Faith Ogbor1, Jacob Kuusu1, Ekemini M. Okon3*
ABSTRACT
The caprine species faces a significant challenge in maintaining homeostasis and increasing productivity due to the constantly changing climatic conditions and the increasing demand for protein in developing regions. The effect of seasonal variation on reproductive endocrinology was examined in a group of West African Dwarf (WAD) does and bucks. Throughout the study, the animals were kept in the same environment. The results showed that most hormones in the does were nominally superior during the wet season compared to the dry season, while progesterone and luteinizing hormones were significantly (p<0.05) higher during the wet season. Only testosterone was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the wet season compared to the dry season in WAD bucks. All other measured hormones in WAD bucks showed no clear pattern. This study hypothesized that the seasonal effect is more pronounced in the female gender than in the male. Also, both genders tend to be significantly influenced by seasonal variations regarding their reproductive physiology; thus, proper management procedures must be designed to capitalize on these findings for profitability.
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