Management of photoperiod to control caprine reproduction in the subtropics.

ABSTRACT

Reproductive seasonality is observed in some breeds originating from or adapted to subtropical latitudes. In 'photoperiodic flexible breeds', such as Australian cashmere goats, the annual breeding season can be manipulated through nutrition, whereas in 'photoperiodic rigid breeds', such as Creole goats from subtropical Mexico, sexual activity can be controlled by altering the photoperiod. In males from the latter breed, artificial long days, whether or not accompanied by the administration of melatonin, stimulate sexual activity during the non-breeding season. These treated males are able to induce the sexual activity of anoestrous females through the male effect under intensive or extensive conditions. Photoperiodic treatments and the male effect can be easily integrated into different breeding management systems in subtropical latitudes.