Breeding ecology of the laughing dove (Streptopelia senegalensis) in the Taif City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia / Ecologia reprodutiva da rola-do-senegal (Streptopelia senegalensis) na cidade de Taif, Reino da Arábia Saudita

The Laughing Dove (Streptopelia senegalensis) is a columbid bird commonly found throughout most of Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, India and Australia. Its preferred habitat includes scrubland, agricultural lands, and human settlements. Despite this species' extensive breeding range, very little information is available regarding its breeding ecology. The main objective of this study was to investigate the breeding features of the Laughing Dove in Taif City, Saudi Arabia between March and May 2018 and December 2018 and May 2019. The results indicate that this species constructs its nests at a mean height of 2.74 ± 0.1 m from the ground. The average number of nesting materials used for building a Laughing Dove nest was 109.3 ± 11.25. This study recorded that this species starts breeding in the middle of February. A clutch of two eggs comprised 72% of all the nests, with a mean of 1.75 ± 0.06 eggs per clutch. The average egg size was 25.27 ± 0.43 mm x 20.25 ± 0.19 mm, with an average egg volume of 5.01 ± 0.13 cm3. In total, 39.5% of the eggs hatched, and 64.7% of hatchlings reached the fledgling stage, resulting in an overall breeding success of 25.6%. This study suggested that nest desertion and predation were the major factors contributing to nest failure.

A rola-do-senegal (Streptopelia senegalensis) é uma ave columbídea comumente encontrada na maior parte da África, Oriente Médio, Ásia Central, Índia e Austrália. Seu hábitat preferido inclui cerrado, terras agrícolas e assentamentos humanos. Apesar da extensa gama de reprodução desta espécie, muito pouca informação está disponível sobre sua ecologia reprodutiva. O principal objetivo deste estudo foi investigar as características reprodutivas da rola-do-senegal na cidade de Taif, Arábia Saudita entre março e maio de 2018 e dezembro de 2018 e maio de 2019. Os resultados indicam que esta espécie constrói seus ninhos a uma altura média de 2,74 ± 0,1 m do chão. O número médio de materiais de nidificação usados para a construção de um ninho de rola-do-senegal foi de 109,3 ± 11,25. Este estudo registrou que esta espécie começa a se reproduzir em meados de fevereiro. Uma ninhada de dois ovos compôs 72% de todos os ninhos, com média de 1,75 ± 0,06 ovo por ninhada. O tamanho médio dos ovos foi de 25,27 ± 0,43 mm x 20,25 ± 0,19 mm, com volume médio de ovos de 5,01 ± 0,13 cm3. No total, 39,5% dos ovos eclodiram e 64,7% dos filhotes atingiram a fase de filhote, resultando em um sucesso reprodutivo geral de 25,6%. Este estudo sugeriu que a deserção do ninho e a predação foram os principais fatores que contribuíram para o fracasso do ninho.

Pregnancy success in bitches - evaluation of interactions between artificial insemination method, serum progesterone concentration and vaginal cytology parameters

Background: The artificial insemination has become a well-established method in the breeding of bitches, and evaluation of the factors that may potentially affect pregnancy success is essential. For this reason, it is essential to evaluate the factors that may affect fertility of the bitch when artificial insemination is performed. Serum progesterone concentrations and vaginal cytology have been used to determine the time of ovulation and stage of the estrus cycle. This study aimed to evaluate the artificial insemination method, the serum progesterone concentration, the breed size, age, the whelping number, vaginal cytology parameters, and their interactions on pregnancy success in bitches. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 607 bitches that had undergone reproductive consultation with the Mexican Canine Federation from January to December 2016 were enrolled in the present study and assigned to one of 2 artificial insemination methods (intravaginal and transcervical) using fresh semen. Determination of the estrus cycle phase and the time of Artificial insemination was based on vaginal cytology and serum progesterone concentrations. Bitches inseminated by the transcervical technique had a higher pregnancy rate with respect to females inseminated by the intravaginal technique (P < 0.05). Moreover, females with a serum progesterone concentration of 5-10 ng/mL had a greater probability (> 4 times) of getting pregnant than animals with lower or higher progesterone concentrations (P < 0.05). Bitches inseminated by the intravaginal technique and with serum progesterone concentrations >10 ng/mL had a considerable reduction in pregnancy (P < 0.05) compared with females with < 10 ng/mL serum progesterone or with bitches inseminated by the transcervical technique. Discusion: Serum progesterone concentration, the artificial insemination method, and superficial cells without a nucleus modified the pregnancy rate in bitches. Females inseminated by transcervical semen deposition had a higher pregnancy rate than females inseminated by the intravaginal technique. Using fresh or frozen-thawed semen produced a higher pregnancy rate in bitches inseminated by transcervical semen deposition than females inseminated by the intravaginal technique. Differences in the pregnancy rate between transcervical and intravaginal insemination could be associated with the correct semen disposition, the distance that the sperm must travel to reach the oocyte, as well as the number of sperm that reach the oviduct ampulla. Exist evidences that after ovulation, as progesterone rises, the cervix is closed, which may compromise the passage of the sperm deposited into the vagina. Therefore, it is likely that in females with a serum progesterone concentration > 10 ng/mL, the cervix was closed, compromising the ability of the sperm to access the oviduct. Thus, the use of intravaginal insemination should be done in bitches with a serum progesterone concentrations < 11 ng/mL to reduce the possibility of cervical closure and to increase the odds of pregnancy. It is well documented that the serum progesterone concentration and vaginal cytology parameters have a great influence on pregnancy success, and the results confirm these findings. In the present study, 96% of the bitches inseminated with a serum progesterone concentration of 5-10 ng/mL got pregnant and had higher odds of pregnancy than bitches with lower or higher serum progesterone concentrations.

Self-pollination, intra- and interspecific crosses in tomatoes

Tomato genotypes ( Solanum spp.) have genetic variability of most desirable features, such as resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, incompatibility of crosses of wild genotypes with domesticated tomatoes, or even between wild genotypes, hinders the breeding process. Thus, knowledge of the reproductive biology of genotypes and conditions is necessary to maximize the success of artificial crossings. This study evaluated the compatibility of self-pollination, intra- and interspecific controlled crosses, stigma receptivity, and pollen viability in tomato genotypes. We used two commercial genotypes S. lycopersicum ('RVTM08' and 'Redenção') and seven accessions of wild tomato genotypes ('AF 26970', 'LA-1401', 'AF 19684', 'LA-1967', 'PI-127826', 'PI-134417', and 'LA-716'). We evaluated all crosses and their reciprocals, besides the self-pollinations. The variables evaluated were fruit index (FI), number of seeds per fruit (SN), and seed germination percentage (GP). Stigma receptivity and grains' pollen viability index (PVI) were also assessed. The results showed that 'LA-1967' was self-incompatible, had a low PVI, and generated fruit without seeds in most crosses. As female parents, 'RVTM08', 'Redenção', 'AF 26970', 'LA-1401', and 'AF 19684' showed higher FI and SN. There was a wide diversity of reproductive characteristics between the genotypes and crosses that did not influence GP. Compatibility of crosses in tomatoes is determined by the female parent choice and can be affected by stigma receptivity and the PVI.(AU)

Taxa de recuperação embrionária em éguas Mangalarga Marchador inseminadas com sêmen refrigerado / Embryonic recovery rate in Mangalarga Marchador mares inseminated with refrigerated semen

O acompanhamento reprodutivo da espécie equina tem sido cada vez mais aplicado na aplicade de diversos países, resultando em melhores índices reprodutivos para a espécie e em animais de linhagens selecionadas. Nos programas de transferência de embrião, a taxa de recuperação embrionária consiste em um parâmetro essencial a fim de verificar o sucesso da técnica. Por conseguinte, este trabalho propõe-se a avaliar as taxas de recuperação embrionária de éguas doadoras submetidas à inseminação artificial com sêmen refrigerado de maneira a complementar os dados relacionados ao assunto. Conforme os dados coletados durante a estação de monta de agosto de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019, obteve-se 129 lavados uterinos provenientes de 20 éguas e 83 embriões recuperados. Desse modo, a taxa de recuperação embrionária obtida foi de 64,34%. Diante dos dados apresentados neste estudo, conclui-se que a aplicabilidade da técnica de recuperação embrionária visando o uso do sêmen refrigerado na inseminação artificial de éguas se mostra promissora, pois permite o transporte de material genético de alto valor entre propriedades sem interferir drasticamente nos índices dos programas de reprodução.

The reproductive monitoring of the equine species has been increasingly applied in several countries, resulting in better reproductive rates for the species and in animals from selected strains. In embryo transfer programs, the embryo recovery rate is an essential parameter to verify the technique success. Therefore, the present work proposes to evaluate the embryo recovery rates of donor mares submitted to artificial insemination with refrigerated semen to complement the data related to the subject. According to the data collected during the breeding season for the period from August 2018 to February 2019, 129 uterine washes were obtained from 20 mares and 83 recovered embryos. Thus, the embryonic recovery rate obtained was 64.34%. Given the data presented in this study, it is concluded that the applicability of the embryonic recovery technique aiming at the use of refrigerated semen in artificial insemination of mares is promising, as it allows the transport of high-value genetic material between properties without interfering dramatically in breeding program indexes.

Exame clínico andrológico em búfalos: particularidades e mercado / Clinical andrological examination in buffaloes: particularities and market

A bubalinocultura tem expandido mundialmente com grande importância socioeconômica na produção de leite, carne e na tração animal. No entanto, algumas características como: a sazonalidade, poucos reprodutores com genética superior para ser multiplicada e reduzido número de touros com sucesso de coleta constante de sêmen nas Centrais, dificultam a obtenção de maiores índices reprodutivos a nível de Brasil. Neste contexto, a eficiência reprodutiva do rebanho possui papel de destaque, consequentemente, o touro bubalino e a realização do exame andrológico são essenciais para o desenvolvimento da bubalinocultura. Apesar da realização de pesquisas ao longo dos anos relacionadas à andrologia em búfalos, na prática a campo ainda existe uma lacuna referente aos aspectos reprodutivos nessa espécie, fazendo com que haja uma demanda por conhecimento específico. Diante disso, objetivou-se abordar alguns dos principais aspectos da andrologia na espécie bubalina, para auxiliar o Médico Veterinário no atendimento clínico e andrológico visando alcançar uma boa eficiência reprodutiva.(AU)

Buffalo farming has expanded worldwide with great socioeconomic importance in the production of milk, meat and animal traction. However, some characteristics such as: seasonality, few sires with superior genetics to be multiplied and reduced number of bulls with constant semen collection success in the Centrals, make it difficult to obtain higher reproductive rates in Brazil. In this context, the reproductive efficiency of the herd plays a prominent role, consequently, the buffalo bull and the performance of the andrological examination are essential for the development of buffalo breeding. Despite conducting research over the years related to andrology in buffaloes, in field practice there is still a gap regarding reproductive aspects in this species, causing a demand for specific knowledge. In view of this, the objective was to address some of the main aspects of andrology in the buffalo species, to assist the veterinarian in clinical and andrological care in order to achieve good reproductive efficiency.(AU)

Luz artificial na reprodução equina ­ Revisão / Artificial lighting in the equine reproduction ­ A review

Os equinos são animais poliéstricos sazonais, fotoperiódico positivos, apresentando ciclos reprodutivos em estações definidas do ano, primavera e verão, e estações com ausência ou baixa atividade reprodutiva, outono e inverno. A necessidade da maximização do período reprodutivo, bem como a definição de um ano hípico iniciando em julho, no hemisfério sul (para algumas raças como o Puro Sangue de Corrida e o Quarto de milha) levou ao desenvolvimento de técnicas para diminuir o tempo que essas éguas permanecem em anestro reprodutivo. Uma das técnicas mais utilizadas destaca-se o uso de iluminação artificial. Consistindo no fornecimento de luz branca incandescente ou led azul ou branco em baias, piquetes ou por meio de máscaras, a fim de simular os efeitos de dias longos no organismo assim liberar o eixo hipotalâmico-hipofisário-gonadal. Para estimular o retorno antecipado à ciclicidade, a égua deve ser exposta a um estímulo de 14 a 15 horas de luz diárias, totalizando 9 a 10 horas de escuridão, ou receber um estímulo de 1 hora de luz, aproximadamente 9 horas após o anoitecer. É fundamental que a égua esteja com escore corporal adequado e alguns cuidados com o fornecimento da luz artificial sejam atendidos, como a continuidade no fornecimento para o sucesso da técnica.(AU)

Horses are seasonally breeding animals which means that they natural breed in specific seasons (Spring, and Summer), with non or low reproductive activity on the other seasons (Winter and Fall). The development of techniques to shorten the anoestrus can be necessary to anticipate the breeding season, starting in July in the Southern Hemisphere, for some breeds such as Thoroughbred and Quarter Horses. The most common technique is the use of artificial lighting with incandescent, or blue/white led light, applied in stalls, paddocks or with a light mask to mimic the effects of a long day and release the hipotalamic-hipophysarie-gonadal axis. To stimulate an early return to cyclicity, the mare should be exposed to a 14-to-15-hour light stimulus daily, totalling 9 to 10 hours of darkness, or receive a 1-hour light stimulus, approximately 9 hours after dusk. It is fundamental that the mare has an adequate body condition score and some awareness with the provision of artificial light are considered, such as the continuity of the light program for the success of the technique.(AU)

Comportamento sócio-sexual e seus problemas no desempenho de touros / Social-sexual behaviour and its problems in performance of bulls

Esta revisão pretende discorrer sobre a estrutura social dos bovinos e sua relação com o comportamento sexual, a fisiologia reprodutiva e a fertilidade de touros a campo e em regime de coleta de sêmen, levando em consideração as diferentes fases do desenvolvimento sexual, os processos de aprendizado envolvidos e os efeitos do estresse social. À luz do conhecimento etológico serão feitas reflexões sobre o fitness (sucesso reprodutivo) de touros mantidos em manejo extensivo de criação e touros em Centrais de Coleta e Processamento de Sêmen (CCPS), a organização arquitetônica dos piquetes e área de coleta e a influência da proximidade de outros touros sobre a qualidade de todo o processo.(AU)

This review intends to discuss the cattle social structure and its relationship with sexual behavior, reproductive physiology, and fertility of bulls in the field and under semen collection regime, taking into account the distinct stages of sexual development, the learning processes involved and the effects of social stress. In the light of ethological science, we will reflect on the fitness (reproductive success) of bulls in extensive breeding management or bulls in Semen Collection and Processing Centers, their architectural organization of paddocks and collection area, and the influence of the proximity of other bulls on the quality of the entire process.(AU)

Analysis of variables inherent to the dynamics of the practice of vaquejada to determine its influence on the result obtained in the competition / Análise de variáveis inerentes à dinâmica da prática da vaquejada para determinação de sua influência sobre o resultado obtido na competição

The objective of this work was to evaluate several attempts to knock down neats and to correlate the success obtained with actions performed by the horse/rider sets through an analysis of public domain videos of vaquejadas. Approximately 300 videos were considered, and the groups were evaluated according to the competition category, that is, amateur/aspirant and professional, and the animals used in the test, that is, pulling or tracking of the neat. It was found that for the pull set in the professional competition category, only the characteristics of directing the cow on the track, and the guiding behavior and positioning in the pull were significant (p<0.01), while for the amateur/aspirant category, the characteristics of remaining in the pull after falling of the cattle and of the behavior at the gate had an effect (p<0.01). The characteristic of remaining in the pull after the fall of the neats, in the category of professional pulling athletes, exists in greater prevalence during the competition with 85.3%, while the characteristic of directing the neat to the side of the track is performed by 87.6% of the competitors. For the set used to track the cattle, the values of the dimensions 1 and 2 were 96.56% and 3.43%, respectively, which is 99.9% of the total variance of the data based on those selected for the final result of "earn the ox". The use of multiple diversity analysis in this study of variables associated with the vaquejada set proved to be quite advantageous, and there was not much variation in the elements obtained with a greater weight in the determination of the final result.(AU)

Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar por meio de análise de vídeos de domínio público de competições de vaquejadas, diversas tentativas de derrubada de rezes e correlacionar o êxito obtido com ações desempenhadas pelos conjuntos cavalo/ cavaleiro. Foram considerados aproximadamente 300 vídeos, sendo os grupos avaliados quanto à categoria de competição, Amador/Aspirante e Profissional, e aos animais utilizados na prova, Puxar ou Esteirar a rês. Verificou-se que para o conjunto de puxar, da categoria profissional de competição, apenas as características de direcionamento da rês na pista, comportamento na condução e posicionamento na puxada foram significativos (p<0,01), enquanto para a categoria amador/ aspirante houve efeito (p<0,01) para a característica de permanecer ou não na puxada após queda da rês e para o comportamento na porteira. A característica, permanecer na puxada após a queda da rês, na categoria de atletas puxadores profissionais, existe em maior prevalência em ações durante a prova com 85,3% dos casos, enquanto a característica de direcionar a rês para a lateral da pista é realizada por 87,6% dos competidores. Para o conjunto utilizado para esteirar a rês, os valores das dimensões 1 e 2 foram de 96,56% e 3,43%, respectivamente, totalizando 99,9% da variância total dos dados com base nos critérios selecionados para o resultado final de "Valeu o boi". O uso da análise de correspondência múltipla no estudo de variáveis associadas ao sucesso em competições de vaquejada mostrou-se bastante eficaz, no que tange a diminuição do universo de elementos com maior peso de determinação no resultado final obtido.(AU)

Genetic diversity in Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) stocks using heterologous primers / Genetic diversity in Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) stocks using heterologous primers

With the rise of world fish farming, the national scenario is favorable for using native fish for intensive farming. Among the catfish, the Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) is a robust candidate, easy to grow and with good organoleptic characteristics in its flesh. For productive success in captivity, it is necessary to consider some questions about the species, such as genetic variability, which must have an acceptable level in a breeding stock, in order to maintain a good diversity; this reduces losses due to inbreeding and low diversity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the genetic variability of commercial stocks of L. marmoratus from the State of Mato Grosso through microsatellite molecular markers. We analyzed 143 individuals from three stocks. The mean heterozygosity and the inbreeding coefficients observed were 0.060; 0.084; 0.141; and 0.539; 0.562; 0.514, respectively, for the stocks of Campo Verde, Juína, and Nova Mutum. The Deviation in the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed in most of the loci in the three populations. Considering the genetic differentiation, it is concluded that the three populations are very close genetically, which requires introduction of new genetic material in the stocks to enrich them genetically for a later reproductive program.

With the rise of world fish farming, the national scenario is favorable for using native fish for intensive farming. Among the catfish, the Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) is a robust candidate, easy to grow and with good organoleptic characteristics in its flesh. For productive success in captivity, it is necessary to consider some questions about the species, such as genetic variability, which must have an acceptable level in a breeding stock, in order to maintain a good diversity; this reduces losses due to inbreeding and low diversity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the genetic variability of commercial stocks of L. marmoratus from the State of Mato Grosso through microsatellite molecular markers. We analyzed 143 individuals from three stocks. The mean heterozygosity and the inbreeding coefficients observed were 0.060; 0.084; 0.141; and 0.539; 0.562; 0.514, respectively, for the stocks of Campo Verde, Juína, and Nova Mutum. The Deviation in the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed in most of the loci in the three populations. Considering the genetic differentiation, it is concluded that the three populations are very close genetically, which requires introduction of new genetic material in the stocks to enrich them genetically for a later reproductive program.

Breeding ecology of the Bare-Faced Ibis (Phimosus infuscatus) in Southern Brazil

The Bare-faced Ibis is a gregarious bird found in South America. In the face of a rapid expansion in a southern state in Brazil and a lack of detailed information about the species' reproduction, two breeding areas were studied weekly for two consecutive seasons. We registered numbers and characteristics of adults, nests, eggs, and chicks, calculated success estimates, and assessed nest installation preferences. Chick morphology, age, and measurements served to define five growth stages. The species used the margins of two close rivers in Santa Catarina to build nests, lay eggs, and develop parental care between August and January, with success estimates as expected for the family. We observed a preference for the eastern margin of the rivers and proximity to bridges for nest installation, where the muddy margin provides resources for juvenile feeding. Two colony models were defined based on the near or far installation of the nests. Variations in egg and chick dimensions indicated higher adult investment in the second season, with negative allometric growth of the bill and tarsus of chicks related to weight. The results presented suggest favorable conditions for the species' reproduction in the region, a considerable factor in understanding its expansion in recent years.(AU)

Genetic diversity in Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) stocks using heterologous primers

With the rise of world fish farming, the national scenario is favorable for using native fish for intensive farming. Among the catfish, the Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) is a robust candidate, easy to grow and with good organoleptic characteristics in its flesh. For productive success in captivity, it is necessary to consider some questions about the species, such as genetic variability, which must have an acceptable level in a breeding stock, in order to maintain a good diversity; this reduces losses due to inbreeding and low diversity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the genetic variability of commercial stocks of L. marmoratus from the State of Mato Grosso through microsatellite molecular markers. We analyzed 143 individuals from three stocks. The mean heterozygosity and the inbreeding coefficients observed were 0.060; 0.084; 0.141; and 0.539; 0.562; 0.514, respectively, for the stocks of Campo Verde, Juína, and Nova Mutum. The Deviation in the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed in most of the loci in the three populations. Considering the genetic differentiation, it is concluded that the three populations are very close genetically, which requires introduction of new genetic material in the stocks to enrich them genetically for a later reproductive program.(AU)

Elaboração de etograma para poedeiras criadas em gaiolas / Preparationof ethogram for laying hens reared in cages

A avicultura, no Brasil, evoluiu muito nas últimas décadas, sendo ainda proeminente, contribuindo de maneira significativa para o agronegócio brasileiro. Um dos fatores importantes para o sucesso da produção avícola é o monitoramento e o controle eficiente do ambiente de criação, que colaboram para a promoção de maior nível de bem-estar para as aves criadas em sistema de confinamento. O estudo do comportamento animal é, tradicionalmente, realizado através de observações visuais dos animais, o que consome tempo e gera decisões subjetivas e susceptíveis ao erro humano. O objetivo geral deste projeto foi elaborar um etograma e avaliar de maneira eficiente o comportamento de galinhas poedeiras alojadas em gaiolas, por meio de gravações digitais. Foram utilizadas aves da linhagem comercial Hisex Browne Hisex Whitecom 51 semanas de vida, criadas em gaiolas com capacidade para duas aves. Para analisar as imagens, foi proposto um etograma composto por 12 eventos comuns neste tipo de sistema, o qual registrou os seguintes comportamentos: "sentada", "comendo", "bebendo", "explorando penas", "bicagem não agressiva", "bicagem agressiva", "movimentos de conforto", "ócio", "postura", "estereotipia", "bico aberto" e "asas abertas". A partir da avaliação deste etograma, percebeu-se que o comportamento "comendo" ocupou a maior parte do tempo das aves (58%), seguido pelo comportamento "parada" (17,3%) e "movimentos de conforto" (8,8%). Os outros 16% foram distribuídos entre os eventos: "bebendo", "explorando penas", "bicagem não agressiva", "bicagem agressiva" e "bico aberto". Nas condições de ambiência e temperatura em que o experimento foi realizado, as galinhas manifestaram comportamento de "bico aberto" em 100% do tempo no período da tarde, indicando clara situação de estresse calórico. Dessa maneira, o etograma funcionou como uma aferição indireta do grau de ambiência destes animais, o que reflete de maneira direta no atendimento aos preceitos de bem-estar animal, quesito fundamental para a produçãomoderna de ovos.(AU)

Poultry farming in Brazil has evolved significantlyin the last decades, being still prominent, and contributing significantly to Brazilian agribusiness. One of the important factors for the success of poultry production is the efficient monitoring and control of the breeding environment, in addition to contributing to the promotion of a higher level of welfare for birds in confinement. However, the study of animal behavior is traditionally carried out through visual observations of animals, which consumes time and generates subjective decisions that are susceptible to human error. The general objective of this project is to elaborate an ethogram and to efficiently evaluate the behaviorof laying hens housed in cages, through digital recordings. Birds of the commercial line Hisex Brownand Hisex White, 51 weeks old, reared in cages with capacity for two birds were used. An ethogram composed of 12 common events in this type of system was proposedto analysisthe images. This ethogramrecorded the following behaviors: "sitting", "eating", "drinking", "exploring feathers", "non-aggressive pecking", "aggressive pecking", "comfort movements", "stopping", "posture", "stereotype", "Open beak" and"open wings". From the evaluation of this ethogram, it was noticed that the "eating" behavior occupied most of the birds'time (58% of the time), being followed by the "stop" behavior (17.3%) and "comfort movements" (8.8%). In theambience and temperature conditions that the experiment was carried out, the chickens showed "open beak" behavior 100% of the time in the afternoon, indicating a clear situation of heat stress. In this way, the ethogram functioned as an indirect measurement of the degree of ambiance of these animals, which directly reflects in the care for animal welfare, a fundamental requirement for modern egg production.(AU)

Genetic diversity in Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) stocks using he erologous primers

With the rise of world fish farming, the national scenario is favorable for using native fish for intensive farming. Among the catfish, the Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) is a robust candidate, easy to grow and with good organoleptic characteristics in its flesh. For productive success in c aptivity, it is necessary to consider some questions about the species, such as genetic variability, which must have an acceptable level in a breeding stoc k, in order to maintain a good diversity; this reduces losses due to inbreeding and low diversity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the genetic variability of commercial stocks of L. marmoratusfrom the State of Mato Grosso through microsatellite molecular markers. We analyzed 143 individuals from three stocks. The mean hete rozygosity and the inbreeding coefficients observed were 0.060; 0.084; 0 .141; and 0.539; 0.562; 0.514, respectively, for the stocks of Campo V erde, Juína,and Nova Mutum. The Deviation in the Hardy-Weinberg equilib rium was observed in most of the lociin the three populations. Considering the genetic differentiation, it is concluded that the three populations are very clo se genetically, which requires introduction of new genetic material in the stock s to enrich them genetically for a later reproductive program.(AU)

Marek's disease in roosters in the Potiguar semi-arid region

Background: Marek's disease (MD) is a transmissible disease in chickens caused by Gallid alphaherpesvirus 2 (GaHV-2). The infection is characterized by lymphocyte cellular infiltrates in peripheral nerves and other organs and tissues, including the skin; which can lead to dysfunction causing progressive asymmetric paresis and complete spastic paralysis of body extremities. Dermatitis and cardiac myositis caused by GaHV-2 in free-range chickens has rarely been described in Brazil. This reports the occurrence of the disease with a confirmatory molecular diagnosis in free-range poultry showing signs of dermatitis, poor performance, and cachexia and no mortality in the semi-arid Potiguar region. Cases: Twenty roosters of the Shamo lineage, among a brood of 42 birds, had a history of progressive weight loss and skin lesions. Two birds with poor body condition, erythema, and scaling of the skin in the head and cervical regions were sent for clinical care. All birds were between 12 and 18 months of age and were vaccinated against Newcastle disease and Fowlpox with only a few receiving vaccines against MD and Gumboro disease. According to the owner's report, some birds were previously kept outdoors, and when they were transferred to a small shed with little air circulation, they began to develop clinical signs after approximately 15 days. The first signs of the disease were also reported to have appeared 2.5 months before clinical care and, in the meantime, several treatments were instituted without success. Owing to the general condition of the animals and inconclusive clinical suspicion, the birds were subjected to euthanasia and necropsy. Tissue samples were collected for histopathological and polymerase chain reaction analyses to search for the GaHV-2 DNA meq gene. The main clinicopathological findings were erythema (47%, 20/42) and desquamation of skin and mild, prominent white multifocal areas in the heart. Histopathology revealed infiltration of pleomorphic lymphoblastic cells in the skin, heart, and sciatic nerve. The amplification of the L-meq and meq oncoprotein genes in these organs and in the liver, confirmed the infection by GaHV-2, consistent with that of a field strain. Discussion: MD was confirmed based on the macroscopic and histological lesions, and with the detection of GaHV-2 DNA in the affected tissues. The unusual clinical presentation represented an initial challenge for diagnosis. The clinical history was important to lead to the suspicion of MD, as roosters initiated clinical signs 15 days after they were transferred to a small shed with poor air circulation. This probably favored the high viral concentration and disease transmission among susceptible birds in the brood because the feather follicle is the primary site of viral replication for transmission; and desquamation of infected epithelial cells favor airborne horizontal transmission to susceptible chickens. The roosters had not been vaccinated against MD, which probably favored the infection, as vaccination is known to be a fundamental approach for MD control for effective growth of the poultry industry. Clinical findings and lesions, together with viral molecular detection, were fundamental for the diagnosis, a premise for the application of adequate prevention and control measures for the disease in breeding. This is the first report of MD with a confirmatory molecular diagnosis in northeastern Brazil.

Uso de éguas receptoras acíclicas em programas de transferência de embrião / Anovulatory recipient mares in embryo transfer programs

O maior entrave para o êxito de um programa de transferência de embrião (TE) está relacionado às receptoras, tanto a qualidade de características reprodutivas, quanto a sincronização entre doadoras e receptoras. Éguas doadoras, geralmente, apresentam melhor escore corporal e disponibilidade alimentar nos períodos de seca, fazendo com que iniciem o seu ciclo estral precocemente enquanto éguas receptoras se encontram ainda em anestro ou período transicional, o que dificulta a TE. Vários estudos foram realizados com o objetivo de utilizar receptoras acíclicas como receptoras de embrião. Assim, podem ser utilizadas nos programas de TE quando submetidas a protocolos hormonais que mimetizam o ciclo estral natural. Uma diversidade de protocolos é encontrada na literatura, usando diferentes doses, posologias e intervalos do uso de estradiol associado a progestágenos. Portanto, objetivou-se analisar resultados de pesquisas com protocolos hormonais que poderiam ajudar a solucionar a escassez de receptoras cíclicas e maximizar os resultados da biotécnica de transferência de embriões.(AU)

There are obstacles to the success of equine embryo transfer programs, concomitantly there has been an increase in the popularity of the technique. One of the most urgent issues to overcome is related to the recipient mare availability and the donor-recipient synchrony. Usually, the donor mares have a higher body condition score and are fed a higher quality diet than recipient mares during the non-breeding season. Therefore, the donor mares start cycling earlier than recipient mares, which makes embryo transfer challenging. Several studies have been carried on finding hormonal protocols that mimic the natural oestrous cycle to allow the use of noncycling recipient mares for embryo transfer programs. Many protocols can be found in the literature, using different doses and intervals. Among the main difference is the use of progestogens, which can be used alone or in combination with oestradiol. The aim of this review was to analyse results that could help solve the lack of recipient mares and improve the results of the embryo transfer technique.(AU)

Foraging efforts and behaviour of the European Turtle doves (Streptopelia turtur) during the breeding season

During the breeding season, many avian species face spatial and seasonal variation in the availability of food resources required to rear chicks. Reduction of food abundance is often identified as the most important factor determining population trends and breeding success in bird species, such as the vulnerable European Turtle dove Streptopelia turtur. During the breeding periods, the increase of food requirements in chicks should increase foraging effort to maintain the amount of food required for optimal chick growth. To investigate the feeding effort of Turtle doves during the breeding season, we monitored foraging and drinking rates, in different wild habitats and farmlands, from March to September 2016-2017 in Midelt, Morocco. Similarly, breeding chronology, including nesting, laying, and chicks' fledging, were monitored in the same habitats to evaluate the correlation between breeding efforts and foraging rates. We found that Turtle doves feed actively from the arrival to departure dates. Foraging activities were intense during breeding phases, mainly laying and chicks' growth periods. Equally, Doves feed intensively during the end of the breeding season before migration departures. Besides, Doves feed actively during the morning and evening to avoid the hottest periods as a strategy to save metabolic water.(AU)

Foraging efforts and behaviour of the European Turtle doves (Streptopelia turtur) during the breeding season

During the breeding season, many avian species face spatial and seasonal variation in the availability of food resources required to rear chicks. Reduction of food abundance is often identified as the most important factor determining population trends and breeding success in bird species, such as the vulnerable European Turtle dove Streptopelia turtur. During the breeding periods, the increase of food requirements in chicks should increase foraging effort to maintain the amount of food required for optimal chick growth. To investigate the feeding effort of Turtle doves during the breeding season, we monitored foraging and drinking rates, in different wild habitats and farmlands, from March to September 2016-2017 in Midelt, Morocco. Similarly, breeding chronology, including nesting, laying, and chicks' fledging, were monitored in the same habitats to evaluate the correlation between breeding efforts and foraging rates. We found that Turtle doves feed actively from the arrival to departure dates. Foraging activities were intense during breeding phases, mainly laying and chicks' growth periods. Equally, Doves feed intensively during the end of the breeding season before migration departures. Besides, Doves feed actively during the morning and evening to avoid the hottest periods as a strategy to save metabolic water.

Perspectives of intrauterine artificial insemination applicability in gilts / Perspectivas de aplicabilidade da inseminação artificial intrauterina em leitoas

The application of the intrauterine artificial insemination (IUAI) technique allows optimization of a swine production system due to the reductions in volume and number of sperm cells in the insemination dose, and by reducing the time taken to perform the insemination. However, IUAI is not recommended for gilts due to the difficulty of intrauterine cannula passage through the cervix. This difficulty is associated mainly with the fact that the reproductive tract is smaller in gilts than in pluriparous females. However, few studies have evaluated the application of IUAI in gilts. In these studies, there are variations in approach concerning the definition of the success rate for cannula passage through the cervix, the type of cannula and the body characteristics of the gilts used, making it difficult to extrapolate the recommendation for the use of IUAI in gilts. Considering the evidence that such characteristics influence or even determine the success of the application of IUAI, there is a necessity for an understanding of the influence of these factors in the improvement and later application of the technique. Gilts represent about 15-20% of the breeding group, and the use of IUAI could optimize the processes of insemination on farms. The approach used in this review highlights the aspects that could aid in structuring further studies for improving IUAI in gilts, allowing its use on commercial farms.(AU)

A aplicação da técnica de inseminação artificial intrauterina (IAU) permitiu uma otimização do sistema de produção de suínos por possibilitar a redução do volume e número de células espermáticas na dose inseminante e, também, por diminuir o tempo de execução da inseminação. Porém, a IAU não tem sido recomendada para leitoas devido à dificuldade de passagem do cateter intrauterino através da cérvix. Essa dificuldade é associada principalmente ao menor tamanho do trato reprodutivo de leitoas se comparado ao das fêmeas pluríparas. Entretanto, ainda são poucos os estudos que avaliaram a aplicação de IAU em leitoas. Nesses estudos, existem variações quanto à definição da taxa de sucesso na inserção do cateter através da cérvix, ao tipo de cateter e, também, quanto às características corporais das matrizes utilizadas, dificultando extrapolações de recomendação do uso da IAU em leitoas. Considerando os indícios de que tais características podem influenciar ou, até mesmo, determinar o sucesso de aplicação da técnica, ainda há necessidade de compreender a influência desses fatores para que a técnica possa ser aprimorada e posteriormente aplicada. Leitoas representam cerca de 15 a 20% do grupo de cobertura e viabilizar a IAU nessa categoria pode otimizar os processos de inseminação nas granjas. A abordagem realizada nessa revisão traz aspectos que podem auxiliar na estruturação de futuros estudos para aprimorar a IAU em leitoas e permitir seu emprego em granjas comerciais.(AU)

Selection and use of calling site by Boana leptolineata and Phyllomedusa distincta during the reproductive season

ABSTRACT Climatic conditions and microhabitat characteristics, such as the substrate and type of vegetation, influence the choice of male anurans for calling sites that optimize their reproductive success. We evaluated the structure and selection of vocalization microhabitat of 17 individuals of Phyllomedusa distincta Lutz, 1950 and 25 of Boana leptolineata (Braun & Braun, 1977), in a subtropical forest in southern Brazil. We measure the height of the perch, the distance between the perch and the edge of the body of water and the structure of the microhabitat of quadrants used by individuals. The same attributes were measured in the quadrants available (but not used) by the individuals. We classified the microhabitats by visual estimate, assigning percentages of coverage for each quadrant by herbaceous, shrub, tree and wetland vegetation. We observed that both species selected their microhabitat, since the characteristics of the quadrants occupied by the individuals were different from those available. Phyllomedusa distincta was more associated with heterogeneous microhabitats, while B. leptolineata occurred in environments with greater coverage of tree strata. Additionally, we observed that both species used shrubs more frequently as a perch site. The selection of these microhabitat characteristics must be associated with strategies to optimize the use of the reproductive habitat, based on the morphological and behavioral characteristics of the species. Finally, it is possible to infer that the differences observed in the microhabitat structure selected by the species can facilitate the coexistence of both in the context of the heterogeneity of the environment.

RESUMO Seleção e uso de sítios de vocalização por Boana leptolineata e Phyllomedusa distincta durante o período reprodutivoAs condições climáticas e as características de micro-habitat, como o substrato e o tipo de vegetação, influenciam a escolha de anuros machos por sítios de vocalização que otimizem seu sucesso reprodutivo. Avaliamos a estrutura e a seleção de micro-habitat de vocalização de 17 indivíduos de Phyllomedusa distincta Lutz, 1950 e 25 de Boana leptolineata (Braun & Braun, 1977), em uma floresta subtropical no sul do Brasil. Medimos a altura do poleiro, a distância do poleiro até a margem do corpo dágua e a estrutura do micro-habitat de quadrantes utilizados pelos indivíduos. Os mesmos atributos foram mensurados nos quadrantes disponíveis (mas não utilizados) pelos indivíduos. Classificamos os micro-habitats por estimativa visual, atribuindo-se porcentagens de cobertura de cada quadrante por vegetação herbácea, arbustiva, arbórea e de área alagada. Observamos que ambas as espécies selecionaram seu micro-habitat, uma vez que as características dos quadrantes ocupados pelos indivíduos foram distintas daquelas disponíveis. Phyllomedusa distincta esteve mais associada a micro-habitats heterogêneos, enquanto B. leptolineata ocorreu em ambientes com maior cobertura de estrato arbóreo. Adicionalmente, observamos que ambas as espécies utilizaram mais frequentemente arbustos como local do poleiro. A seleção destas características de micro-habitat deve estar associada a estratégias para otimização do uso do habitat reprodutivo, baseadas em características morfológicas e comportamentais das espécies. Por fim, é possível inferir que as diferenças observadas na estrutura de micro-habitat selecionadas pelas espécies podem facilitar a coexistência de ambas no contexto da heterogeneidade do ambiente.

Inbreeding on litter size of German Spitz dogs

The objective of the present study was to assess the association between the inbreeding coefficient (F) of German Spitz dogs (litter, sires, and dams) and number of live newborn dogs for this breed. Records of dams and sires of a breeding system were used to calculate the F of 105 litters and their sires and dams and the number of live newborn dogs. The analysis performed through the GLM procedure showed a negative influence of F of litter and mother on litter size. This influence was investigated through models that considered linear and quadratic influences. Although the model that considered quadratic effect of F of the litter achieved the best adjustment, only linear coefficients were significant in both analyses. According to these results, the studied sample of German Spitz dogs exhibits inbreeding depression for litter size, which is an important information for breeders and professionals that assist in dog breeding. In addition to all the known effects of inbreeding on canine health, the results indicate that monitoring inbreeding through F is important for the reproductive success of the breed.