STUDIES ON FERTILITY OF BARKI SHEEP UNDER DESERT CONDITIONS

Abstract

This investigation was designed to assess some reproductive traits for improving fertility, increasing twinning rate and milk production in Barki ewes using some different hormonal protocols for estrus synchronization and superovulation. In this regard, seventy-five non-pregnant and non-lactating Barki ewes were randomly allocated into three equal groups (25 ewes each). The first group (G1) served as a control without any hormonal treatment. The second group (G2) was treated with an intravaginal progestagen impregnated sponge for 12 days then was removed. On the ninth day, all treated ewes received an intramuscular injection of prostaglandin F2α. The third group (G3) was synchronized as G2, moreover, on the 10th day ewes received an intramuscular injection of PMSG (750 IU/ewe) in descending doses for three days so that the last dose was injected at the 12th day concurrently with sponges removal. Meanwhile, on the 14th day, ewes of G3 received an intramuscular injection of hCG (500 IU/ewe).