Abstract
The effects of melatonin and light treatments on the reproductive performance of yearling Suffolk rams was investigated. One group (group A, n = 5) remained in the local light environment (lat. 51 ° 43′N). The other two groups (group B, n = 5; group C, n = 5) were given a priming period of long days [18 h light (L):6 h dark (D)] during 26 January–9 March. During 9 March–16 October, group B was exposed to short days (9L:15D) and group C was given melatonin implants (Regulin ®) at 5-weekly intervals. Testis diameter, sexual behaviour and semen quality were used to assess reproductive performance. The responses of groups B and C were similar and peak reproductive performance occurred in these groups significantly earlier than in group A. Peak performance was not maintained in groups B and C throughout the short day and melatonin treatment periods and this has been attributed to refractoriness. The response of group C clearly indicates that melatonin treatment may be considered as an alternative to photostimulation for the preparation of rams for out-of-season breeding.
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