Effect of the method of estrus synchronization and PMSG dosage on estrus and twinning in Ethiopian Menze sheep.
Mature, cyclic Ethiopian Menze ewes (n=72) were used in this study. They were divided into 6 equal groups in a 2x3 factorial experimental design. Estrus and ovulation were synchronized in all ewes using either 2 dosages of prostaglandin F2 alpha 12 days apart (n=36) or intravaginal progestogen sponges for an equal length of time (n=36). At sponge removal or at the second prostaglandin injection, equal groups of ewes were injected with either 0, 200, or 300 IU of PMSG. Prostaglandin-synchronized ewes exhibit estrus significantly earlier (P=0.025) than the progestogen-synchronized group. Although PMSG treatment increased twinning rates and therefore total number of lambs born, the differences between groups did not reach significant levels (P>0.10).
Mutiga
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Animal Reproduction and Health Section, ILCA Headquarters, P.O. Box 5689, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Mukasa-Mugerwa
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