Improvement of Reproductive and Metabolic Performance of Rahmani Ewes
Abstract: ABSTRACT:
The effect of dietary supplementation of L-carnitine with or without calcium salts of long chain fatty acids (Ca-LCFA) on reproductive and metabolic responses was performed on twelve Rahmani ewes that were randomly allotted into three equal groups. The first group supplemented with the basal diet plus 250 ppm L-carnitine (mg/kg diet). The second group supplemented with 250 ppm L-carnitine and 3% of dry matter calcium salts of long chain fatty acids (Ca-LCFA). While, the third one supplemented with the basal diet and served as control. Ewes in all treatments received supplementations for two months. All ewes underwent estrous induction using prostaglandin F2α before supplementation then using intravaginal sponges during supplementation. Body weight was recorded and blood samples were collected. Serum progesterone and metabolites were measured. Number and diameter of follicles and corpora lutae were recorded using endorectal ultrasonography. Results indicated that the dietary supplementation with L-carnitine with or without (Ca-LCFA) increased significantly final body weight. Significant differences were found within all treatments for total cholesterol and among treatments at 30 days post-treatment for albumin and globulin. L-carnitine with or without Ca-LCFA increased number of large and medium sized follicles and improved ovulation rate in rahmani ewes. Furthermore, plasma progesterone was significantly higher (P<0.05) in Ca-LCFA treatment compared to the others. L-carnitine plus Ca-LCFA can be used as dietary supplements for ewes to improve their productive and reproductive performance.
Key words: Reproductive, Metabolic Performance, Rahmani Ewes.
Publication year 2007
Pages 67-82
Availability location معهد بحوث التناسليات الحيوانية- الهرم
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Author(s) from ARC
External authors (outside ARC)
    خالد حافظ كلية الطب البيطرى-جامعة القاهرة
    امل محمود ابو المعاطى المركز القومى للبحوث
Agris Categories Veterinary science and hygiene - General aspects
Proposed Agrovoc Reproductive, Metabolic Perfor;
Publication Type Researsh & Applied Activities
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