Echo Determination of Follicular Growth and Ovulation Time in Nubian Goats Subjected to Oestrus Synchronization

This study was conducted to determine the effects of hormonal synchronization on oestrous responses and to determine the diameter of follicles to reach ovulation and size of ovulated follicles using ultrasonography in Nubian goats in Sudan. Three protocols, progesterone impregnated sponges (A), progesterone + eCG (B) and progesterone + PGF2α (C) were used. Oestrus responses, oestrous onset, duration of oestrus and ovulation time were determined. The results obtained indicated that Mucus discharge was observed in all does in group A and C, but it was observed in 75 % of the does in group B. Tail flagging and mount to other does were observed in 50% of does irrespective of the treatment. The standing to be mounted was observed in all does (100%) irrespective of the treatment. Oestrus onset between three groups (A, B and C) was found to be 33.50 ± 5.50 h, 41.12 ± 11.66 h and 32.75 ± 4.11 h, respectively, without significant different between groups. There was no significant difference in duration of oestrus between groups. Mean values of graafian follicles diameters after 20 hours post removal (HPR), was significantly (P<0.05) higher in group A (0.95 ± 0.17cm) and group C (0.92 ± 0.12cm) than group B (0.65 ± 0.17cm). No significant differences, in graafian follicles diameters, between groups were found after 24, 28, 32, 36 and 40 h after removal. The mean Ovulation time from sponge removal (44 h) was not significantly different between groups. Using ultrasound machine to detect Graafian follicles development and ovulation time was found to be a useful tool.