Estrus synchronization and expression of estrus behaviors during periovulatory period in doublesynch treated buffalypso (Bubalus bubalis) in Trinidad

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Experiment was conducted to investigate (a) the effect of the doublesynch protocol on pregnancy rate in buffalypso (b) the effectiveness of the doublesynch protocol for estrous synchronization and (c) to observe and record signs of estrous in buffalypso. Design and Methodology: In this study, eleven buffalypsoes (n=11) were administered Prostaglandin (PGF2α)on day 0, Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) on day 2, a second PGF2α injection on day 9, and a second GnRH injection on day 11. Timed artificial insemination (TAI) was performed 16 and 24 hours after the second GnRH injection. Eleven buffalypso females (n=11) were bred after spontaneous estrus was detected (control group). Oestrous behaviour and intensity were recorded in all the experimental animals, transrectal palpation and ultrasound was performed 60 days postinsemination to determine conception rate. Results: All buffalypsoes treated with the doublesynch protocol elicited signs of swollen vulva and frequent urination which are classical signs of behavioural estrus. The pregnancy rates were 54.5% using TAI in all the treated buffalypsoes and 45.5% for the control group buffalypsoes. The conception rate between doublesynch treatment and Aripo farm herd were also compared and it was found that doublesynch treated buffalypsoes had higher conception rate (54.5%) compared to the overall Aripo farm herd (24.0%) by artificial insemination. Conclusion: The doublesynch protocol effectively synchronized the estrus in buffalypsoes. The study also demonstrated that this protocol followed by TAI enhanced the pregnancy rate with classical signs of estrus in the buffalypsoes.