The effect of oxidative stress on the reproductive performance in Hair Goats

Abstract

Small ruminants make better use of pastures with low grass yield and poor vegetation and therefore con-tribute significantly to the country’s economy. In order to achieve maximum yield from these animals, it is necessary to optimize nutrition and minimize stress factors. Oxidative stress affects the normal functioning of many physiological systems including fertility. This study was carried out to determine oxidative stress with regard to effect of antioxidants on fertility in hair goat in October and May. In this study, oxidative stress index (OSI), total oxidation level (TOS) and total antioxidant (TAS) levels were investigated in 20 male and 100 female hair goats during the breeding season (October) and out-of-season (May). Females between the ages of 2-6 years and male hair goats aged 2-4 years were used in the study. The correlation between TAS, TOS, and OSI and fertility was evaluated according to gender and season. TAS, TOS and OSI values in female hair goats were 1.28 µmol/L, 1.34 µmol/L; and 11.02 µmol/L in October and 7.13 µmol/L; 0.87 µmol/L and 0.53 µmol/L in May, respectively; as for male hair goats 1.32 µmol/L, 1.44 µmol/L and 4.24 µmol/L in October and 8.84 µmol/L; 0.32 µmol/L, and 0.63 µmol/L in May, respectively. Seasonal differences between genders and calving and infertile groups were found (P=0,001). As a result, while the increase in TOS level causes a decrease in offspring yield in hair goats, it has been concluded that the increase in TAS level positively affects the offspring’s productivity.