Comparison of two methods of synchronization of estrus in brown brocket deer ( Mazama gouazoubira)

Abstract

This study aimed to establish a protocol for synchronization of estrus in brown brocket deer ( Mazama gouazoubira). Two groups of hinds ( n = 3) were submitted to two different protocols: Treatment 1 received an intravaginal progesterone (CIDR ®) device for 8 days, followed by 265 μg injection of cloprostenol at the time of removal; and Treatment 2 received two injections of 265 μg of cloprostenol 11 days apart. After 30 days, each group of three hinds received the other treatment. Treatment efficacy was evaluated by reproductive behavior, fecal progestin and estrogen concentration and the observation of CL by laparoscopy 6 days after the end of estrus. All the hinds (100%) had estrous behavior upon the completion of treatment, but a significant difference occurred between the time of onset, 70.5 ± 5.0 h for Treatment 1 and 52.3 ± 5.6 h for Treatment 2. The mean estrus duration time (34.7 ± 4.50 and 37.0 ± 8.11 h), ovulation rates (5/6 and 4/6), mean CL size (4.85 ± 0.74 and 3.21 ± 0.19 mm) and mean fecal progestin concentration at 6 days after the end of estrus (865.53 ± 76.59 and 1073.35 ± 106.82 ng/g feces) were not significantly different between treatments. There was no difference in fecal estrogen concentrations throughout the treatment and the greatest values of the estrogen:progestin ratio coincided with estrous behavior. Although fertility was not evaluated directly, both treatments were effective in synchronizing estrus in the species M. gouazoubira, with the formation of functional corpora lutea.