Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of availability of artificial shading on testicular and seminal characteristics of Santa Ines crossbred rams. Twelve 8 month old rams at 38.1 ± 5.2 kg average weight, were used in a total random design with two treatments: areas with and without available artificial shading (black polyethylene mesh screen for a 50% reduction of solar radiation). The scrotal circumference, scrotal length, scrotal volume, rectal temperature and scrotal temperature were measured twice a week. Also a biweekly analysis of the semen was carried out, measuring the volume and spermatic concentration as well as the percentage of normal spermatozoa. The results show that available shading provided for lower scrotal temperatures and higher sperm concentration, without influencing the scrotal volume and the percentage of normal spermatozoa. The testicular measures, such as the scrotal circumference and length were higher in the rams that were subjected to the no available shading treatment. The absence of differences, in some of the analyzed variables, between the two treatments, with and without available shading, could be due to high adaptability of the animals.
Highlights
IntroductionSanta Ines in Brazil, can be an interesting alternative for increasing the efficiency of lamb meat production systems (CEZAR et al, 2004)
Development of crossbred breeds, such as theSanta Ines in Brazil, can be an interesting alternative for increasing the efficiency of lamb meat production systems (CEZAR et al, 2004)
At present there is not a chart on the black globe temperature-humidity index (BGT) for ovine (SOUZA et al, 2008). This index probably represents one of the best indices to represent heat stress in open areas; it accounted for only 24% of the variance of heat stress-related milk yield depression in dairy cows (BUFFINGTON et al, 1983)
Summary
Santa Ines in Brazil, can be an interesting alternative for increasing the efficiency of lamb meat production systems (CEZAR et al, 2004). The body size of the adult Santa Ines sheep, which is higher than that of many other native breeds, requires greater energy for maintenance, which, in tropical conditions, could compromise its reproductive efficiency, especially during the dry season where there is a food shortage High temperatures and solar radiation are stress factors that affect animal productivity. Animal Sciences relevant aspects to consider is the reduction in reproductive efficiency, which often occurs in animals subject to high radiant temperatures. In extensive systems with animals in grazing conditions, shading allows for reducing the radiant thermal load, and reduces the thermal stress caused by direct solar radiation
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